A major highlight of my career was being commissioned to create a cake for the cover of American Cake Decorating Magazine. My work has also been featured in numerous wedding, lifestyle, art, and baking publications. Most recently, I was honoured to see my work on a billboard in Times Square during Bridal Fashion Week this past April…”
Sahar Masarati, Founder & Creative Artist, Sugar Alkymi
Los Angeles-based Sahar Masarati is the Founder and Creative Edible Artist behind ‘Sugar Alkymi’ which specialises in crafting exquisite sugar flower creations and chocolate art, transforming culinary elements into sculptural and narrative-driven edible masterpieces. Born and educated in Denmark, Sahar emigrated to California to follow her creative dreams…
C&B: “Sahar, your work is incredible – when and where did you start out, and how did you gain your expertise?”’
SM: “My passion for culinary arts began at a young age – initially out of necessity, helping my mom in the kitchen – and quickly turned into something I deeply loved. I officially fell in love with baking and cake decorating after the birth of my son, when I continued the tradition of creating homemade birthday cakes, that my mother had started for me when I was four. I’d originally studied pharmaceutical sciences followed by four years of medical school before making the bold decision to leave medicine behind and focus on Sugar Alkymi…”
Inspiration comes directly from my clients – their love stories, their moods, their energy. I also draw from elements like the venue, the floral palette of the season, and even the bridal gown. My goal is always to create something meaningful, emotional, and unforgettable – with a sense of timeless elegance that leaves a lasting impression…”
Sahar Masarati, Founder & Creative Artist, Sugar Alkymi
C&B: “Sahar, you transitioned from potentially working in the sciences to something much more tangible and creative. The necessary attention to detail in both areas must have helped refine your work into the art form that it is today. How did your business develop, and who was your first client?
SM: “Sugar Alkymi officially started in November 2001 with my son’s first birthday cake – and for the next 17 years, he was my one and only – and very patient – client! What began as a heartfelt hobby became a form of therapy and a deeply fulfilling creative outlet. I immersed myself in the craft, taking countless classes and attending industry events, simply for the joy of learning and creating. It wasn’t until much later that I realised this passion could evolve into something greater…”
C&B: “Producing cakes is quite a crowded market, in which ways have you managed to set your offering over and above the competition?”
SM: “My unique selling proposition is storytelling through edible art. When I founded Sugar Alkymi, my goal was to stand out in an industry saturated with replicated trends. I wanted to elevate cake artistry by transforming each client’s personal story into a one-of-a-kind edible creation. While I serve a diverse clientele, one common thread is that they all value originality, exclusivity, and the artistry behind their commissions. They’re not just looking for cake – they’re looking for an experience…”
I’m incredibly excited to announce that I’m now offering my services for destination weddings worldwide. Bringing edible art to the global stage has always been a dream, and I’m thrilled to make it a reality!”
Sahar Masarati, Founder & Creative Artist, Sugar Alkymi
C&B: “Your cakes not only look fantastic as a centrepiece, they are also delicious. Which are your most popular flavours and fillings?”
SM: “My signature flavour is pistachio cake with sour cherry filling and Swiss meringue buttercream. While pistachio is definitely trending now, it’s also a deeply rooted flavour in my cultural heritage…”
I primarily deliver cake commissions throughout Southern California, though my sugar flowers and chocolate art have been shipped and featured globally. Wedding commissions start at $5,500, and my newest offering – Live Chocolate Art Performances – starts at $2,500…”
Sahar Masarati, Founder & Creative Artist, Sugar Alkymi
C&B: “Creating cakes is one thing, running a business is another; what have been the most significant challenges you’ve faced while establishing your brand?”
SM: “Balancing the roles of artist and business owner has been the greatest challenge. I’m constantly switching hats – from creative to operational to strategic. It takes discipline, resilience, and a willingness to grow outside of my comfort zone…”
C&B: “Now that you’re fully established and running a successful operation, do you ever feel the need to share your knowledge with others who aspire to create works of art?”
SM: “Absolutely! I offer both 1:1 and group in-person workshops focused on advanced cake decorating and sugar flower techniques, with an editorial-quality aesthetic. I also host collaborative workshops with other industry professionals and have a series of online courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels. In 2025, I plan to launch a mentorship membership to help other creatives build profitable, sustainable businesses from their art…”
CONTACT: http://www.sugaralkymi.com
IMAGE CREDITS ON INSTAGRAM: Photography by @angiemandl and @naomi.renee_photography • Florals by @ojalafloral • Table Design @makeitatorible • Planner @vai_x_co • Rentals @venturarental • Venue @topavista • Hair Stylist @sometimesidohair • Assistant @alex.cotaa
