My name is Maria Pastrana. I was born in Philadelphia, PA, raised in Florida and of Puerto Rican heritage. As far as I can remember, I can recall standing in my grandmother's kitchen watching her bake and decorate the traditional Puerto Rican cake. Now, years later, I’m hard at work in my own cake designing kitchen.

I did not go to school for my artistic craft and I have always accredited it as a God-given talent. After arriving here in Youngstown and starting to show and gain clientele through flea markets, mall shows, and word-of-mouth referrals, I felt in my heart that this niche would take off.

In 1999, I opened my official shop on South Avenue in Youngstown. Through lots of perseverance and many nights without end, Cake Creations, Etc… grew to a point that I actually started to turn down clientelle. The business grew to accommodate very flattering Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New York and other out of state brides.

I started to specialize in hand sculpted works of art. My “niche” and motto, “If you can dream it, we can make it” became an unbelievable and attainable dream. Being able to look at anything and actually create it out of cake, and seeing the clients amazed faces as well as their passionate comments has been the biggest reward ever!  From children’s birthdays, to grand-openings, baby showers, weddings and all special occasions, I’ve never ran out of ideas. The fresh taste of my original recipes has kept clients coming back for everything exciting celebration in their lives. Being featured on some of the morning shows, as well as participating for the last 10 years on the WFMJ TV21 “live” wedding has really opened numerous opportunities for me.

After nearly 8 years of the South Avenue location, the opportunity for a relocation as well as an investment became available. Going from a 900 square foot building to a location triple the size has been a big blessing to myself and my family. The new Market Street location and expansion of my business has become a reality. The new big kitchen as well as the spacious showroom has made it easier to create and work. This business has allowed me to provide for my children and serve the great clientele here in Youngstown. After 3 years in the new location, we have now added a retail baking supply store an addition of our cafe & dessert bar & our confectionary school.

I am very thankful to my children for their help and encouragement as well as to those who have believed in me and my passion, and supported me through prayers and encouragement, and continue to do so. Thank you!