About The Company

The Dessert Artist is a baked goods and confectionery producer that is addressing the lack of Black representation (more on that here) in the baking industry with unique, artistic, and edible products. The Dessert Artist provides bespoke edible creations that delight the senses for a variety of occasions (e.g., weddings, holidays, corporate events, etc.) that is influenced by the founder’s Black heritage. The company regularly includes designs and flavours that will resonate with the Black community and those looking to explore and experience Black culture (e.g., Jamaican patties, Black Santa, etc.).

The company is also one of the winners of the Rise Up 2023 pitch competition (1,733 applicants, 24 semi-finalists, 8 winners), as well as the LiftOff 5K 2023 pitch competition, and has been featured on the Baking For Change Show!

About Me

Hiya, I’m Rochelle, the person behind The Dessert Artist. I have always had a bit of a sweet tooth and valued a dessert’s appearance as much as its taste. This lead to me taking the Baking & Pastry Arts Management and Advanced Chocolate and Confectionery Artistry courses at Humber college. After three years of studying various avenues of pastry and working in different establishments as a pastry chef for almost a decade, I discovered my passion for the decorative side of “baking” and recipe development. Elaborate cakes, edible figurines, detailed sugar cookies, and playing mad scientist through experimenting with flavor combinations (especially in chocolate form) are my jam!

Fun Facts

~ I was a part of the first ever cohort to join and complete the LiftOff program for Black entrepreneurs.
~ I was interviewed through the University of Waterloo on how community is important for Black entrepreneurs. Watch interview here.
~ I was also interviewed by CBC KW where I shared my perspective about being a Black entrepreneur. Read about it here.
~ I participated in the first Black Business Showcase Pitch Competition (put on by LiftOff) in KW and won!
~ I am a hobby artist in my free time and have drawn or painted several art pieces ranging from realistic portraits to abstract. See the beginnings of a mural I made for Lady Glaze Doughnuts here.
~ Rugby is one of my favorite sports to play.
~ I’ve taught a dessert class through the Community Kitchen Cooperative and had a blast! Hoping to find more teaching opportunities in the future 🙂