Aliza Hackner is a cake artist. She says appearance is 80% of the job, although it’s a bonus if the creation tastes good too What are the most important aspects to being a cake artist?They include the ability to:• Look at pictures and "see" how to make cake components that will come together to match the picture;• Plan cakes and visualise the end product;• Work with people to get them to find ideas for cakes and to help them incorporate personal aspects into their cakes; and• Most importantly, complete f the cake in the allotted time.story_article_left1What is more important: the baking or the creative element that is added once the cake is made?The creative element is the most important aspect. A cake is 80% aesthetic, although it is always a bonus if it's delicious too.Where did you learn your skills?I volunteered at my children's nursery school's baking and icing fundraising initiative. I also spent many years helping my friends make their children's birthday cakes. I spend a lot of time watching YouTube tutorials.What was the most ambitious cake you have ever made? Who and what was it for?I made my most ambitious cake when I was very new to decorating. I took on a two-tier cake with a fondant sandal on the top. I had to make seven before one eventually stayed together.What is the most common request from clients?For something people perceive as representing themselves - such as a motorbike or favourite handbag.There must have been some big mistakes - can you tell me about one?My biggest disaster was when I had just started. I made a designer-suitcase cake. It looked fine, but when the client came to fetch it, a large crack appeared down the middle of the cake.mini_story_image_vright1The lady who ordered it was so sweet about it: if she hadn't been, I might not have continued to make cakes. I felt so terrible.What did you want to be when you were a child?I am actually a physiotherapist, but I couldn't really express my creativity through that. I did art at school and have always painted. When my twins were born, I gave up physiotherapy, and that ultimately led to where I am now.What was your first paying job as a cake artist?My first professional cake was a doll cake for a friend's daughter.What do you enjoy most about your job?I love putting ideas together and watching as a design I have been exploring with a client becomes a reality.What would you prefer not to do?I do not want to do cakes that cannot be delivered. I like my cakes to be very stable. It's very important that the cakes arrive at the venue in one piece...