CakeWalk is a weekly column by Mary Ann Porch dedicated to every baker who has ever struggled to achieve the right consistency with their icing, unsuccessfully searched for the perfect cupcake topper or just wants to learn something new. Because with a few helpful tips, cupcakes are a cakewalk.
As I'm writing this, CupcakeCamp NYC 2010 is about 4.5 hours away, and I couldn't be more excited. This is my second year producing this event for New York cupcake lovers, and I thought It was worth looking back on how the event has changed in just 365 days and what to expect tonight if you are attending.
First off, people have taken notice. We had 334 people RSVP last year. This year, we are running close to hitting the 2,000 mark when it comes registered attendees. Same with cupcakes - we've doubled the amount of cupcakes that were on hand last year. When I first did the math, I thought I had added something up incorrectly, but after checking the numbers, the fact that New Yorkers love cupcakes is an established fact.
So with those numbers in mind, the event is going to be bigger, and dare I say better, than last year. We've got special guests, such as Kathy "Metalcakes" Bejma, established authors, such as Jennifer Ross, and cookbook writer and Buttercup Bake Shop founder Jennifer Appel. We've got prizes to give away and even a special cocktail on hand.
And for those of you that didn't attend CupcakeCamp NYC 2009, here are some tips:
1.) Get to the event on time. Once we hit fire code capacity, we'll have to form a line to get in. However, if you bring cupcakes, you'll get to cut the line - it's only fair for those making the extra effort.
2.) Be social! There are a tons of people from various industries in attendance, so you'll never know who you might meet that can set you up with a new job, a roommate, etc. I made a ton of friends from CupcakeCamp NYC last year, so I encourage you to talk to strangers (despite what your parents always told you).
3.) Tip your bartender. Since CupcakeCamp NYC is a completely free event, we encourage everyone to remember the fantastic bartenders at Happy Ending. Be sure to tip them - they are working hard for the money.
4.) Take home left overs. Unfortunately, we can't donate any left over cupcakes to shelters because they are not a wrapped food item. So, be prepared to take home left overs. Consider it a party favor.
To all you New Yorkers, I hope to see you tonight at Happy Ending come 7 p.m.!
Mary Ann is the founder of the New York City chapter of CupcakeCamp NYC, an ad-hoc gathering born from the desire for people to share and eat cupcakes in an open environment. She is also the founder of Puff & Choux, a blog dedicated to the pastry and dessert arts. You can contact her at mary_ann_porch@hotmail.com with any questions, ideas or just to chit chat. You can also follow her on Twitter at @MaryAPorch.
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