Meet Erika Stirk | Cake Artist & Bakery Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erika Stirk and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erika, what principle do you value most?
Equality and fair treatment is something that matters deeply to me, and I choose to express that in my bakery. Cupcakes are for everyone. Before I transitioned to a business owner/baking career I was in healthcare. Seeing firsthand how groups of people can be treated so differently for who they love or what they look like, and while it’s generally more accepted there is still a need to show support and be an ally. As a woman business owner I understand that without allies and supporters years ago I would never be able to own my business.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being able to be creative everyday is a wonderfully rewarding experience for a creative person. Everyday I get to create things for people that are aesthetically appealing or something that’s crafted for someone specially.

My creativity is balanced with good baking because under all the decorations is still cake and it should taste good. Sacrificing some detail to save its taste is a balancing act and I’m proud of the outcomes.

My cake artistry started in high school but was put on the back burner until 15 or so years ago when I started my cake business out of my home. Through the years I’ve been able to self learn the intricacies of working with different edible mediums while working a full time job outside of my baking business, it was a struggle but well worth the effort.

My brand, Bakery On Maple, is a woman owned small business that creates the most beautiful, amazing, and delicious cakes and provides a safe, supportive atmosphere and is rooted in building a world that is equal and equitable for all.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Bristol, CT is an amazing city in central Connecticut where we have the best of both worlds, urban and rural. Bakery On Maple is located in Bristol’s historic Federal Hill neighborhood where there are some great cultural finds. The American Clock and Watch Museum is across the street and the historic green is only two or three minutes walking from there. The Bristol Bazaar is a great place to do some shopping, grab a coffee at Yellow King Brewery and Cafe which is located in the Bazaar and a treat out of Bakery On Maple’s custom vending machine! The newly renovated Bristol Arts and Innovation Magnet School boasts the Rockwell theatre and has some great performances. Plus, we are home to ESPN

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are a lot of people and groups that helped me get to where I am! First, my husband who has helped, supported, and lost sleep with me from day one. In addition my City’s economic development director, Justin Malley, was instrumental in bringing in the connections and resources I needed. There was also the mayor, Ellen Zoppo-Sassu the first woman elected as mayor, and city council at the time who encouraged me and had the confidence in me and voted in favor of awarding me a grant that was large enough to cover our buildout. Also, through the ECD office I was able to meet other small business owners starting their businesses and they have became great friends. Care and Eric Verikas from Dusty Dude Woodwork and The Bristol Bazaar and April Tibbetts from Family Roots Produce Market.

Website: Www.bakeryonmaple.com

Facebook: @bakeryonmaple