Sugar Artists Emporium

Sugar Artists Emporium Cafe

2013-03-05T07:43:00.002-08:00

For those of you who are regular customers this probably won't be a surprise. But, for those of you who have not been in for a few weeks we have some exciting news!

Work has begun on our new Sugar Artists Emporium Cafe. We hope to be up and running by mid April with a selection of delicious desserts, sandwiches, soups and a few other surprises. We'll be serving coffee, espresso and offering free WIFI as well.

We'd like to welcome MaryAnn McLean who will be coming in to run the new cafe. Many of you are familiar with MaryAnn (MaryAnn's Cakes) who teaches some of our classes. MaryAnn is an awesome cake decorator and will be a welcome addition to the business.

Stay tuned for more information on our grand opening!

March Classes

2013-02-18T11:12:00.003-08:00

March is a busy holiday month. We've tried to fit in a little bit of everything, but keep checking back...we may have a couple of surprise classes this month! The picture of the bunny cake for the last class of the month was sent to me on Facebook. I'm not sure who actually made this cake and would like to give them credit if anyone has that information. Just send me a message on Facebook or email me at michele@sugarartistsemporium.com

St. Patrick's Day Cookies
Pictures will be posted soon.
Wed. Mar. 6      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur. Mar. 7      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Frann Burke

Leprachaun Cupcake Cake
Wed.    Mar. 13      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Mar. 14      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Mar. 16    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $16.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring 29 regular size cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Kimberly Mock

Easter Cookies
Pictures will be posted soon.
Wed. Mar. 20      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.     Mar. 23    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Frann Burke

Easter Bunny Cake
Wed.    Mar. 27      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Mar. 28      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Mar. 30    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $25.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring 3 - 8"x2" round cake layers. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

February Classes

2013-01-23T11:26:00.000-08:00

I should have had this schedule up a couple of weeks ago, but things have been hectic. The holiday rush begins again. During a six week time span beginning Feb. 12th, we'll celebrate Mardi Gras, Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day and Easter. We've tried to include a variety of classes that have some new techniques you haven't yet used as well as some easy peasy classes just for fun! I hope you'll find a few classes that interest you and join us for the fun. And, I do mean fun...we have an awesome group of students who attend our classes and you'll have a great time with them. If you have questions just give the store a call (570)235-1375.

We also have a couple of exciting new projects we're working on, so keep an eye out for them!

Superbowl XLVII Football Cupcake Cake
Wed.    Jan. 30      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Jan. 31      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Feb. 2    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring 24 regular size cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: MaryAnn McLean

Valentine's Day Cookies
Techniques include brushed embroidery with royal icing.
Wed. Feb. 6     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.     Feb. 9    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Frann Burke

Valentine's Day Filled Candy
Learn to make filled chocolates and bring home a box of chocolates for your special Valentine!
Wed.    Feb. 13      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Gelb

Fish Cupcake Cake
A fun project inspired by Melissa at mycakeschool.com!
Sat.    Feb. 16      10:30 pm - Noon
COST: $16.00
SUPPLIES: Bring 1 - 6" cake layer and 12 cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Ombre Rose Cake
Inspired by Megan at countrycleaver.com.
Wed.    Feb. 20      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Feb. 21      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Feb. 23    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $18.00
SUPPLIES: Bring 4 - 6"x2" or 4 - 8"x2"cake layers. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Gumpaste Carnations
Wed.    Feb. 27      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Feb. 28      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Mar. 2     10:30 am - Noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Happy New Year Class Schedule

2012-12-22T10:06:00.000-08:00

The holidays are here and we at Sugar Artists Emporium wish you and your loved ones a happy and blessed holiday season. Due to holiday celebrations, we only have one more class scheduled until the new year...but we have some awesome classes coming up starting in January! All of our classes are suitable for any skill level except possibly the most advanced student, so don't feel you won't fit right in. We have a wonderful group of students who love seeing new faces at their classes.

New Year's Party Hat Cake
Sat.      Dec.    29th    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring (1) - 13"x9" cake without icing. All other supplies will be provided. This is a buttercream covered cake with fondant accents.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Snowman Cupcake Cake
Wed.    Jan. 2      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Jan. 3      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Jan. 5    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring 26 regular size cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Snowglobe Sugar Cookies
Wed.    Jan. 9      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Jan. 12 10:30 am - Noon
COST: $16.00 (Includes snowglobe cookie cutter to keep)
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Frann Burke

Chocolate Bark (flavors to be determined)
Wed.    Jan. 16      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Jan. 17     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Jan. 19 10:30 am - Noon
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Gelb

Snowman Cake
Wed.    Jan. 23      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Jan. 24     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Jan. 26 10:30 am - Noon
COST: $25.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring (2) - 7" or 8" round or oval cakes without icing. All other supplies will be provided.This is a fondant covered cake with fondant decorations.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Superbowl XLVII Football Cupcake Cake
Wed.    Jan. 30      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur    Jan. 31      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Feb. 2    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring 24 regular size cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: MaryAnn McLean

December Classes

2012-11-09T08:03:00.000-08:00

The holidays are right around the corner and we've had tons of requests for classes. We've tried to include as much as possible, but there are only six weeks until Christmas and no classes scheduled for Thanksgiving week. If we didn't schedule your request I apologize and we'll try to get it in during the new year.

Poinsettia Wreath Cake
Wed.    Nov. 28    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Nov. 29    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Dec.    1    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring two 8" round layers without icing. All other supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Michele Mleczynski

Decorating Christmas Cut Out Cookies
Wed.    Dec. 5      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Dec.   8    10:30 am - Noon
COST: $17.00 (2 cookie cutters to take home are included in price)
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Frann Burke

Christmas Cookie Swap and Party
Sun.      Dec.   9    2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
We are planning our first annual cookie swap and party. We hope you can attend!

Each person attending will bring in a set number of cookies (the amount will be determined by the final number of people attending) packaged for each guest to take home.

Please email the recipe for your cookie to michele@sugarartistsemporium.com so we can avoid duplicate kinds and all the recipes can be included in a booklet for each guest to take home.

Also, bring a snack for the group such as a dip, tea sandwich, etc. Again, please notify us ahead of time to avoid duplication.

Finally, bring a $5-$10 Santa grab bag gift.

Poinsettia Candy Box
Wed.    Dec. 12      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Dec.   13      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Dec.   15 10:30 am - Noon
COST: $25.00 (candy molds to take home are included in price)
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Barbara Gelb

Graham Cracker Gingerbread House
Wed.    Dec. 19      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Dec.   20     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.
INSTRUCTOR: Carol Bianchi

November Classes

2012-10-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid I'm really late getting the November schedule out and I do apologize. We have a few things going on that have put me behind. The Grand Re-Opening celebration was all planned and then had to be rescheduled due to Hurricane Sandy. Also, on Tuesday Nov. 6th, we're scheduled to have WNEP film our holiday commercial. We are looking forward to this project and hope you will all stay on the lookout for it.

On to November's schedule....

Turkey Cupcake Cake
Wed.    Oct. 31    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Nov. 1    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Out of Town - No Class
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: Bring 18 - 24 cupcakes without icing. All other supplies will be provided.

Turkey Cookies with Frann Burke
Wed.    Nov. 7    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    No Class
Sat.      Nov. 10   10:30 am - noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.

Thanksgiving Cake
Wed.    Nov. 14    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Nov. 15      6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      No Class
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: Please bring two 8" round layers with out icing. All other supplies will be provided.

Silvina Barboza Modeling & Blown Sugar Classes
Sat. Nov. 17
        9 am - 1 pm Modeling Class
        1 pm - 2 pm Lunch (provided)
        2 pm - 5 pm Blown/Pulled Sugar Class
COST: $125.00 for each class
             Payment is due by Fri. Nov. 2nd
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided.

There will not be any classes during the week of November 18th due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The following week will begin our Christmas project classes which will include a candy class with Barb Gelb, another cookie class with Frann Burke and much more. Check back soon to see the upcoming schedule.

Silvina Barboza Class

2012-10-20T15:20:00.001-07:00

Silvina Barboza is scheduled to visit Sugar Artists Emporium, 1325 N. River St., Plains, PA again on Saturday, Nov. 17th. She is offering two different classes. Modeling a Thanksgiving scene from 9 am - 1 pm and a beginning blown & pulled sugar class from 2 pm - 5 pm. The cost of each class is $125 and Silvina will provide all supplies. Lunch will be provided for those students attending both classes. Payment isn't due until Nov. 2nd, but reserve your spot soon.

Grand Re-Opening Celebration

2012-10-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

In January of 2011, we started work on our brand new cake decorating supply store. It took three solid months of work and was a labor of love for me. I had always dreamed of owning my own business, but it took just the right set of circumstances to bring my dream to life. Our doors opened on April 2, 2011 with the combined effort of a great many family and friends who were so supportive and willing to help. I had a vision of a charming little shop that carried all those special items that you can only find on line and no expense was spared to bring it to life.

A brief five months later, that dream came crashing down. Between the rainfall from Hurricane Irene and an additional six inches of rain in five days during the following week from Tropical Storm Lee the Wyoming Valley suffered catastrophic flooding from the Susquehanna River. On the evening of September 8, 2011 we were advised that the river would crest by the next morning at 38.5' which would have caused some flooding in the strip mall where our store is located. However, in reality the river crested at almost 43'. The flooding in our store was approximately 8' deep.

We lost everything along with the other businesses located in the complex. Once the water receded, we began the overwhelming task of cleaning out the store. It took three days and the help of upwards of ten people to get the job done. Masks and gloves had to be worn at all times...boots were essential for walking in the mud that coated everything. It was a daunting job and I thank God everyday for the family and friends who immediately came out to help us.

It was a very difficult decision as to whether or not we would re-open. We had put so much time, effort and money into the business that the thought of starting again after just a few months was frightening. But, with the help of the Wilkes Small Business Development Center, the Pittston Chamber of Commerce, the Wilkes Barre Chamber of Commerce and an SBA Disaster Loan, we managed to open our doors six months later.

The new store is much larger than the old one. We have added a permanent classroom, restroom facilities and an additional 1000 sq. ft.of floor space. We don't have the same "charming little shop" feel anymore, but the customers still seem to love the store. Everyday is a struggle to put the store back on a solid foundation and there are days that I feel for every step forward, I'm taking two steps backwards.But, I have wonderful customers and students who have been with me every step of the way and I'm so thankful for them. They keep me going and help me keep a positive outlook.

On Tuesday, October 30, 2012 we are finally, just a little over a year later, celebrating our re-opening. The celebration will be from 6 pm - 8 pm at the store and we hope all our customers and students will be able to stop by to help us mark the occasion. Please join us for some light refreshments and some special door prizes because without you, we would not have been able to come back.

With Our Deepest Gratitude,

Michele & Ray

UPCOMING CLASSES

2012-09-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

We have a few exciting weeks of classes coming up. Several of our very talented students will be here sharing their knowledge. I hope you will be able to attend some of these classes. As those of you who have attended classes in the past know....we like to keep things easy and fun! All of our upcoming classes are geared toward the beginner, so please don't think you can't do it....YOU CAN!

Unfortunately, the classes with Sheila Miller and Kim Simons were cancelled. Theses classes were geared toward the more experienced decorator and we did not have enough students sign up to meet the class minimums. We are expecting to run a class with Silvina Barboza again. The class is scheduled for Saturday, November 17th, so mark it on your calendar. I will pass the details on to you as soon as I have Silvina's lesson plan.

Here are the last two classes in September and all of October's. We're looking forward to seeing you at lots of classes.

Petal Technique Class
Wed.    Sept 19    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Sept 20    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Sept 22    10:30 am - noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: Bring an 8" round cake at least 4" tall (2 layers with icing between the layers) iced smooth in crusting white buttercream. (Recipe is available on our Facebook page under notes.) Please place your cake on an 8" cardboard cake circle. They are available here at the store for .10 each. All other supplies will be provided.

Autumn Themed Cake with MaryAnn McLean
Wed.    Sept 26    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Sept 27     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Sept 29    10:30 am - noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: Bring a 1 layer 9"x13" cake iced smooth in crusting white buttercream. (Recipe is available on our Facebook page under notes.) Please place your cake on an 14"x10" cardboard cake board. They are available here at the store for .45 each. All other supplies will be provided. You will be airbrushing as well as piping an Autumn scene.

Basic Chocolate Class
with Barb Gelb
Wed.    Oct 3    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Oct 4     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Oct 6    10:30 am - noon
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided. You will be making various chocolate items including molding and dipping. Great basics for those of you who would like to try your hand at making your own holiday candies.

Spiderweb Cookies with Frann Burke
Wed.    Oct 10    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Oct 11     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Oct 13    10:30 am - noon
COST: $15.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided to make these SCARY...but tasty cookies.

          "Halloween Themed"
Chocolate Dipped Caramel Apples
            with Carol Bianchi
Wed.    Oct 17    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Oct 18     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Oct 20    10:30 am - noon
COST: $25.00
SUPPLIES: All supplies will be provided for you to create and package 3 Halloween themed chocolate covered caramel apples. Don't miss making these creations for your little goblins!

Witch's Hat Cake
Wed.    Oct 24    6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Thur.    Oct 25     6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Sat.      Oct 27 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
COST: $20.00
SUPPLIES: Bring (6) 8"x2" cake layers that have been refrigerated for at least 24 hrs. You must use a firm, dense cake for this project. (Recipe is available on our Facebook page under notes.) All other supplies will be provided. We will be stacking, carving, working with rice krispie treats, buttercream and fondant. Just in time for your Halloween party! This class is limited to 6 students so reserve your seat early.

Exciting Upcoming September Classes

2012-08-13T10:33:00.001-07:00

3D Snowy Owl Sculpting Class with Kim Simons
Sat. Sept. 8 Time TBA
Cost: $120.00 (Due by Aug. 17th)
Supplies: 4 hr. class. Students need to bring cuticle scissors, soft round brushes in sizes 000, 2 & 4 and a 4"x4" piece of styrofoam still covered in plastic. All other supplies will be provided. (10 students maximum)

Kim Simons is an award winning cake artist (1 Time grand prize winner in Wedding Cakes Master's Division, 4 times grand prize winner Professional Level, 3 times winner of the People’s Choice award ) Kim Simons has been a professional art instructor for 15 + years. She uses her remarkable art talent to create amazing 3D cake designs. Kim’s students are amazed to learn they can also create beautiful artwork even if they have not had prior art experience. Having these artistic skills will take your cakes to the next level. Check out Kim’s website to see how her artistic talent creates cakes that are works of art. www.cakesbykimsimons.com

Basic Lambeth Piping with Sheila Miller
Sat.        Sept. 22      1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Sun.       Sept. 23      1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Cost: $70.00 (Due by Aug. 31st)
Supplies: All supplies provided. (10 students per class maximum)

Sheila has been a cake decorator for 37 years, and is the owner of 'Sheila’s Cakery'. Sheila has earned over 125 awards, including several Best of Show, People’s Choice, Decorators’ Choice honors, received a bronze medal in the National Wedding Cake Competition, Tulsa OK, and was first runner up in the 2006 Mid Atlantic Wedding Cake Competition.

Classes will be held in our classroom at Sugar Artists Emporium, 1325 N. River St., Plains, PA. To reserve your seat either call the store at (570)235-1375 or email michele@sugarartistsemporium.com.

UPCOMING CLASSES

2012-07-18T18:23:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe we're halfway through July already. The summer is flying by and before you know it the kids will be back at school. I'm finally getting around to posting the August schedule. I hope you will enjoy the selections. I also have most of September done, so I'll post that as well today. Please remember the upcoming September classes with our visiting professionals have a couple of requirements: class must be paid for in advance and class size is limited. Also, each class requires a minimum number of students. If we do not have enough interest, the class will be postponed.

AUGUST                                                                       ChocolateTruffles
Wed.    Aug 1    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur.    Aug 2    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.      Aug 4    10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: We will be making truffle batter as well as rolling, decorating and boxing them. All supplies will be provided.

Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes

Wed. Aug 8 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Thur. Aug 9 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Sat. Aug 11 10:30 pm - noon

Cost: $15.00
Supplies: We will be baking cake batter inside ice cream cones and then decorating. All supplies will be provided.

Chocolate Dipped Coffee Spoons (No Saturday class due to ICES Day of Sharing)

Tues. Aug 14   6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Wed. Aug 15   6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur Aug 16   6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

Gelatin Bubbles
Wed.    Aug 22    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thurs.    Aug 23    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.    Aug 25 10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

Gift Box Cake
Wed. Aug 29 6:30 pm-8:00pm
Thurs. Aug 30 6:30 pm-8:00pm
Sat. Sept 1 10:30 am-noon
Cost: $20.00
Supplies: We will be decorating a buttercream covered cake with fondant ribbon and bow. Bring 2 - 8" square cakes any flavor without icing. All other supplies will be provided.

SEPTEMBER

Kim Simons is an award winning cake artist (1 Time grand prize winner in Wedding Cakes Master's Division, 4 times grand prize winner Professional Level, 3 times winner of the People’s Choice award ) Kim Simons was a professional art instructor for 15 + years. She uses her remarkable art talent to create amazing 3D cake designs. Kim’s students are amazed to learn they can also create beautiful artwork even if they have not had prior art experience. Having these artistic skills will take your cakes to the next level. Check out Kim’s website to see how her artistic talent creates cakes that are works of art. www.cakesbykimsimons.com

Owl Cupcake Cake
Wed.    Sept. 12    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thurs.    Sept. 13     6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.    Sept. 15    10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: Bring 18 regular size cupcakes without icing. All other supplies will be provided.

July Classes

2012-06-16T12:59:00.000-07:00

What a busy start to the summer! So many new projects and not enough hours in the day... I'm really late getting the July schedule out to everyone, but yesterday I was able to finalize all the classes. I hope you've had an opportunity to attend at least one class. The students have a great time and go home every week with a new project, so I hope you make some time to join us.

We will be adding a student class every Monday morning over the summer. The class will run from 10:30 am - noon. The age limit is 11 - 15 and the cost will be $15.00 per week for most classes. The first class will be Monday, June 25th. The cost is $15.00 and students need to bring either 1 - 8"x3" round cake or 2 - 8"x2" round cakes. The first class will focus on how to ice a cake smooth and decorate with basic piped borders. Class size will be limited to 6 students so reserve your seat early.

Every month we've been fortunate to have at least one guest instructor. This month we were lucky to be able to schedule Silvina Barboza who is teaching the ABC's of Modeling as I write this. Next week, Mary Ann McLean will be here teaching students how to pipe animal faces on cupcakes. We have just a few seats left in the Saturday morning class, so if you're interested let me know soon.

Our guest instructor for July will be Carol Bianchi. Carol is the owner of Carol's Cake Creations and has over 30 years experience. Carol will be sharing her knowledge of airbrushing over the course of two weeks. If you've always wanted to learn to use an airbrush, here is a great basic course for you. *Please be aware that the airbrushing classes will be limited to 8 students.

Here is the July schedule. Please note we will be closed on July 3rd and 4th for the holiday and classes will be pushed one day later.

Quilling with Gumpaste
Thurs.    July 5    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Fri.       July 6    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.        July 7    10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

Gumpaste Calla Lilies
Wed. July 11 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thurs. July 12 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat. July 14    10:30 pm - noon
Cost: $20.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

Basics of Airbrushing (Part 1-Rainbow Cupcakes) Limited to 8 students.
Wed.    July 18    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thurs.    July 19    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.    July 21 10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: Bring 12 regular size cupcakes without icing. All other supplies will be provided.

Basics of Airbrushing (Part 2-Beach Scene) Limited to 8 students.
Wed.    July 25    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thurs.    July 26    6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat.    July 28 10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: Bring a 9"x13" cake without icing. All other supplies will be provided.

June Classes

2012-05-08T12:39:00.001-07:00

Here is the class schedule for the last week of May through the end of June.

Gumpaste Stargazer Lilies
Wed., May 30th     6:30 pm - 8 pm
Thur., May 31 st     6:30 pm - 8 pm
Sat., June 2nd      10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.


Stained Glass Piped Cookies
Wed., June 6th   6:30 pm - 8 pm
Thur., June 7th 6:30 pm - 8 pm
Sat., June 9th    10:30 am - noon

Cost: $15.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

The ABC's of Modeling with Silvina Barboza
Sat., June 16th       9 am - 1 pm
                                 2 pm - 6 pm

Cost: $90.00
Supplies: x-acto knife, manicure scissors.
                  All other supplies will be provided.

Buttercream Animal Faces on Cupcakes with MaryAnn McLean
Wed., June 20th       6:30 pm - 8 pm
Thur., June 21st        6:30 pm - 8 pm
Sat., June 23rd        10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: 1 doz. regular size cupcakes without icing.
                All other supplies will be provided.

July 4th Marshmallow Kabob Bouquet
Wed., June 27th       6:30 pm - 8 pm
Thur., June 28th      6:30 pm - 8 pm
Sat., June 30th        10:30 am - noon
Cost: $25.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

The ABC's of Modeling

2012-05-08T07:42:00.003-07:00

Before you know it, June 16th and Silvina Barboza's modeling class will be here. I have been very fortunate to have the opportunity to take a 2 day modeling class with Silvina. Her talent is amazing and I look forward to introducing her to you.

Silvina has the ability to bring her characters alive with realistic facial features and lifelike expressions.During the class I took with her last year, I learned some valuable tips and techniques to create more realistic figures. I think if you are able to attend this class, you will come away with some great knowledge!

Please remember that class size is limited to 10 and that payment in full is due no later than next Friday May 18th. You can pay by cash, check or credit card at the store. Also, if you are definitely planning to attend one of the two Saturday sessions, I need to know which session you would like to sign up for....9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. or 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. As it stands, we have 17 students who have expressed an interest in participating, 6 have stated a preference for the morning class, 4 have stated a preference for the afternoon class and I have not yet heard from the other 7 one way or another. *Please note that to guarantee your seat, payment must be made by the 18th.

Cost of the class: $90 per student

4 hr class

Class description:

Learn the principles of figure modeling. Students will learn the techniques to make beautiful pieces. We will cover hands, hair and facial expressions. Learn to work with different materials, such as fondant, modeling paste, modeling chocolate or chocolate clay and rice cereal treats

Supply List:

· x-acto knife

·· small manicure scissors

· Instructor / Sugar Artists Emporium will supply the remaining required materials

Piping Buttercream Animals

2012-04-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

For those of you waiting for the details on this class...here we go. Our guest instructor for this class will be MaryAnn McLean. MaryAnn is a part time cake decorator and owns Mary Ann's Little Cake Shop.

You can check out some of her great cakes at http://www.facebook.com/maryannslittlecakeshop.

The cost for this class will be $15.00 and you will need to bring 12 regular sized cupcakes without frosting.

The classes are scheduled for Wed., April 18th...Thurs., April 19th and Sat., April 21st. We already have several seats reserved in each class, so don't take too long to reserve your seat.

May Classes

2012-03-25T13:46:00.001-07:00

As promised, here is the May class listing.

Gumpaste Gerbera Daisies
Wed., May 2 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., May 3            6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., May 5             10:30 am - noon
Cost: $10.00
Supplies: All supplies will be provided.

Fancy Hat Mother's Day Cake
Wed., May 9 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., May 10         6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., May 12            10:30 am - noon
Cost: $20.00
Supplies: Requires 1 - 2 layer 8" round cake. All other supplies will be provided.

Picnic Cupcake/Cookie Toppers
Wed., May 16 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., May 17            6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., May 19             10:30 am - noon
Cost: $10.00
Supplies: Guest instructor will be Jodi McMillan. All supplies will be provided.

"Ice Cream Cone" Cupcake Cake
Wed., May 23 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., May 24            6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., May 26             10:30 am - noon
Cost: $10.00
Supplies: Requires 12 regular size cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.

April Classes

2012-03-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

Classes for March have been a blast! The response has been so overwhelming that we've had to add a permanent Wednesday evening class. I think you will find April's classes will be a lot of fun, so reserve your seat early. Some details have not been worked out yet but, here is a preview of what's coming up this month with the available details.

Please note there will not be any classes the first week of April. Since this is the Easter holiday week, we have not scheduled any classes.

Flowers & Bumblebees Cupcake Cake
Wed., April 11 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., April 12           6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., April 14              10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: Bring 21 regular sized cupcakes and 2 mini cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.

Piping Butter Cream Animals
Wed., April 18 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., April 19           6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., April 21              10:30 am - noon
Cost: $15.00
Supplies: Guest instructor for this class will be Mary Ann McLean. Bring 12 regular sized cupcakes. All other supplies will be provided.

"Slice of Birthday Cake" Cake
Wed., April 25 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thur., April 26           6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Sat., April 28              10:30 am - noon
Cost: $20.00
Supplies: Bring 1 - 9x13 cake. All other supplies will be provided.

We hope to have the May schedule up before the end of the week, so....stay tuned!

Cake Pops Class

2012-03-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

We've had an overwhelming response for this week's cake pop class. Due to the number of requests, we are adding an additional class to be held on Wednesday, March 14th from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm. The cost of the class is $15.00 and includes all your supplies to create at least 1 dozen Easter themed cake pops to take home with you. If Wednesday evening is a free night for you and you would like to join us, please email me or call the store at (570)235-1375.

March Classes

2012-03-06T08:49:00.002-08:00

We are finally finishing up our classroom area this week and will be starting classes again. Our first class will be held this Thursday evening and just from our email distribution and Facebook page announcement...the class is filled. We only have four seats left for Saturday morning's class, so if you want to sign up I would suggest calling or emailing me ASAP. I actually had to turn away two students for Thursday's class, so I suggest reserving your spot early for upcoming classes. If the demand is high enough, we will add a Wednesday evening class in the future.

I apologize for the short notice on this month's classes, but we were not sure the space would be completed for Thursday until this past weekend. In future, I hope to have the following month's schedule available by mid-month. April's schedule will be a little later so watch for the announcement sometime during the week of March 19th.

Cookie Decorating Class

Thurs. March 8^th 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Sat. March 10^th10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Cost: $15.00

Learn how to make royal icing, piping borders and flooding. Each student will complete 1 dozen cookies to take home with them. All supplies are included. Just bring yourself!

Cake Pops Class

Thurs. March 15^th 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Sat. March 17^th10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Cost: $15.00

Learn how to prepare filling, attach lollipop sticks, dip and decorate to look like Easter bunnies. Complete at least 1 dozen to take home. All supplies are included. Just bring yourself!

Figure Modeling Class

Thurs. March 22^nd 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Sat. March 24^th10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Cost: $10.00

Learn how to model various Easter figures from sugar paste. All figures will be used in the following week’s class. All supplies are included. Just bring yourself.

Easter Basket Cake Class

Thurs. March 29^th 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Sat. March 31^st 10:30 am to 12:00 pm

Cost: $10.00

Learn how to decorate a cake to look like an Easter basket filled with goodies. Learn how to pipe a basket weave design, rope border and use a grass tip. All supplies are included except 1 – 8” round cake. (you will need at least 2 or 3 – 8” layers to form your basket) Butter cream icing to fill and decorate your cake will be supplied.

I hope you will be able to join us for one of our classes. You will have great time and learn some new techniques!

Cinnamon Roll Cake

2012-02-25T09:08:00.001-08:00

I came across this recipe the other day while surfing the web. Cinnamon rolls have to be one of my all time favorite things...warm, gooey, cinnamony! What could be better on a cold winter afternoon with a hot cup of coffee. This recipe is on my to do list this weekend. If you try it out..let me know how you like.

Cake
3 c. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. sugar
4 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 c. milk
2 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1 stick butter, melted

Topping
2 sticks butter, softened
1 c. brown sugar
2 tbsp. flour
1 tbsp. cinnamon

Glaze
2 c. powdered sugar
5 tbsp. milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Mix together all cake ingredients except melted butter. After mixing, slowly add melted butter. Pour batter into a greased 9"x13" pan. Mix topping ingredients together until well combined and drop spoonfuls over the top of the batter. Swirl the topping into the batter using a knife and bake at 350° for 28-32 minutes.

After removing cake from oven, mix together glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm cake.

Sunday 2/26/2012

Just a little side note...I baked this cake this morning and it was a huge hit. If you're looking for a really satisfying dessert this gets a big thumbs up from me! I hope you have an opportunity to try this!

Rainbow Cake in a Jar

2012-02-08T09:02:00.000-08:00

I'm always on the lookout for new baking ideas and this one from The Family Kitchen on Babble really caught my eye! After thinking about it, canning jars can be boiled, filled with hot liquid, etc. so why not be able to put them in the oven.

This recipe is for 1 pint canning jars and only makes three for one cake mix which seems like a lot of cake for one serving. I think I would be more inclined to use 1/2 pint jars instead and adjust the baking time.

The recipe is simple. Make a white cake mix per the directions on the box. Divide it into bowls and color each bowl with the colors you want to use. Make sure you use enough color to make your batter really bright. I suggest using gel colors instead of the food color you purchase in the grocery store. You'll get more vibrant colors using much less color.

Spray the inside of your jar with nonstick spray before layering your batter. Fill the jars approximately halfway with batter, place in a shallow pan filled 1/4 in. of water and bake in a preheated 350° oven. The time will depend on what size jars you use. The pint jars take about 40 min. so if you use the 1/2 pint jars, I would suggest checking them after 20 minutes. Cool completely and then remove the top 1/4" of crust, frost and add sprinkles. If you won't be serving these right away, just cool, put the cap on the jar and refrigerate. You can add frosting and sprinkles later.

I can see using these cute little jars for so many different get-togethers. Decorate with complimentary colored ribbon and little thank you tags for a baby or bridal shower. Add a tag with the guest's name and use at each place setting for a holiday party....let your imagination run wild!

If you have an opportunity to try this project, let me know. I may try them for my next party! I'll keep you posted.

We're Back!

2012-01-23T11:23:00.000-08:00

We opened our doors for business this morning and already we've had several of our old customers stop by to visit. A big thanks to Lisa Johnson who was our first visitor this morning and our first sale of the day. Lisa signed our first dollar and we'll be getting it up on display with our original first dollar as soon as possible.

We also had a visit from Margie Langdon and her mom today. Margie brought in her award winning molded chocolate ornaments. Margie entered her chocolate creations at the Luzerne County Fair this past fall and won a Blue Ribbon. She did a fantastic job considering it was her first time making a three dimensional piece.

We hope to see you all in the near future. We're here for all your decorating needs and to give you any help you need to make your sweet creations!

Store Reopening

2012-01-21T13:38:00.000-08:00

This past September 8th, Sugar Artists Emporium was devastated by the severe flooding that hit northeastern Pennsylvania. Our store received approximately 8 feet of flood water and our inventory and fixtures were a complete loss. After four months of remodeling in the complex, we are finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel.

We have moved to a different location in the complex. Our new space is double the size of our old store and we have added a permanent classroom as well as restroom facilities. Our new suite numbers are 112 and 113. On Monday morning, January 23rd, at 10 a.m. we will open Suite 113 for business. We are still working on Suite 112 and our new classroom. We hope to have that section of the store open by the end of the month and resume classes the first week of February.

We have not yet received all of our inventory, but we do have cake boxes, drums and pads available as well as fondant, gel paste colors, candy molds, flavorings (cake and candy), cake pans, cookie sheets, cupcake pans, various tools, meringue powder and piping gel. New merchandise is arriving everyday. If you're looking for something in particular, please don't hesitate to call the store before stopping by.

We are looking forward to seeing all our customers over the next few weeks. Valentine's Day and Easter will be right around the corner, so we hope you will stop by for all your decorating supplies.

Cupcake Bouquet Class

2011-09-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

I'm really late getting this post done. At this point, not only have we had our cupcake bouquet class, but our fondant cupcake toppers and purse cake classes. August has been a very busy month and I have to say I'm very pleased with the turn out we've had for the classes. But, more than that, I enjoy seeing how much fun everyone is having and how creative they can be.

I think everyone who attended one of these classes with Jodi McMillan had a great time. I also think they surprised themselves with just how nice their projects turned out. Unfortunately, we only have pictures from Thursday night's class because I was out of town and missed Saturday's class. You can see what a great job everyone did on Thursday and rumor has it that Saturday's bouquets were just as nice!

Cove Country & PA ICES Day of Sharing

2011-08-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

This past weekend as most of you know, I attended the Cove Country Cake Show & Challenge in Bedford, PA. The Show was held on Saturday and included a live challenge. The challenge was three hours long and there were three teams that competed. The theme for this year's cake show was "Children's Movies" and each of the three teams were very creative. Their pieces included Willy Wonka, created by two Cove Country students, Gutsy the Smurf from the new Smurf movie all rigged out in his kilt (right along with his creator, Mark James, in his kilt) and Kung Fu Panda, the winning design, created by Kim Simon.

I have to give credit to all the participants. They kept their cool, never got upset and did some fantastic work. Any of you who decorate cakes will know how much work went into each of these cakes and a three hour time limit would have stressed me to the max!

Along with the cake challenge, there was a cake show competition that included some amazing entries. I wish I could name everyone who participated, but I can't possibly list them all. A couple of my favorites included The Three Little Pigs and Mary Poppins, but there were alot of great cakes. For a look at all the pictures from the show and challenge, check out Sugar Artists Emporium's Facebook Page. There are some action photos from the competition and more cake entries.

Along with all the fun on Saturday, I had the privilege of taking classes with Beth Parvu. I will post pictures at a later date, but I learned how to make a Rose Fairy and gumpaste stargazer lilies. Beth is an excellent teacher and if you have an opportunity to take one of her classes, you'll be glad you did.

Beth is the owner of Sugarpaste, LLC, and co-owns Crystal Colors LLC with her husband Ronald. Beth is a recognized around the world for her Sugar Flowers and award wining cake designs. She has been published numerous times in American Cake Decorating Magazine, Cake& Craft Decoration Magazine (England) and 2007 was in listed in Gourmet Magazine in the December issue. Also she has been written about in Dessert Professional magazine under the cutting edge section.

You can check out her website at Sugarpaste Beth has some great cutters, veiners and molds. We will be carrying a line of her products in the store in the very near future.

I also, attended the PA ICES Day of Sharing on Sunday. I was very fortunate to take a Lambeth Method piping class with Sheila Miller. Sheila has been a cake decorator for 37 years, and is the owner of 'Sheila’s Cakery'. Sheila has earned over 125 awards, including several Best of Show, People’s Choice, Decorators’ Choice honors, received a bronze medal in the National Wedding Cake Competition, Tulsa OK, and was first runner up in the 2006 Mid Atlantic Wedding Cake Competition. Sheila is a lovely lady and a great teacher.

For those of you haven't heard about PA ICES, it is the Pennsylvania chapter of the International Cake Exploration Societe. If you join ICES, you automatically become a member of the PA chapter. The group holds three days of sharing every year. Each one is held in conjunction with a cake show. The first one is held in April at State College, the second one is held at Bedford, PA in August and the third one is coming up in November in York, PA in conjunction with the White Rose Cake Show. You can go to ICES or check out PA ICES Facebook Page for more information on the organization. I hope you will consider joining!