Marketing Management and Media Communications, 2009
From childhood Pia Cato had a fascination with homebaking, feeding her creative flare through constant tasting and testing new recipes. A graduate in Marketing Management and Media Communications from the University of Gloucestershire, it did not occur to Pia that her passion for decorative treats could lead to a successful business idea. However in May 2008 Pia entered the University’s BUG Programme for budding entrepreneurs and won. This gave Pia the push she needed to open The Vanilla Pod Bakery.
When asked what advice would you give to those wanting to setup on their own, Pia replied, ‘It may be a daunting and scary thought at first, but trust your instinct and just go for it. It will be worth all the hard work’.
The Vanilla Pod Bakery creates delicious, celebration treats for people who want more than just a cake... whether luscious occasion cakes, traybakes or wedding cakes
Carolyn and Laurence Sperring got married in May 2010 and The Vanilla Pod Bakery was forefront in their mind when considering a cake for their wedding. ‘I had tasted Pia’s cupcakes a few times, having used her for some of our events at the University,’ says Carolyn. ‘Pia invited us to her bakery to see the different styles she could make and to taste some of the different flavours – that clinched the deal – and we confirmed our order for 120 cupcakes!’. The couple chose to match their colour scheme with a mix of mini, regular and double indulgence size cupcakes in lemon, chocolate and vanilla flavours. ‘We were delighted with the cupcakes – they looked beautiful displayed by the top table and so many of our guests came up to us afterwards to comment on how delicious they were! I would definitely recommend Vanilla Pod Bakery for a Wedding or special event’.
Pia would like to offer two exclusive deals to our Alumni, including a Cupcake Decoration Hen Party Workshop for couples who book a beautiful Cupcake Wedding Tower or Wedding Cake for their special day. Visit our Benefits and Services page for more information.