Creative Confections
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” – Albert Einstein
Oftentimes when people hear the word “creativity,” their mind immediately turns to canvases, paints, and brushes. However, in my day-to-day work experiences, I have found that creativity is not always so clear-cut and obvious. It is often used when thinking critically, generating new ideas, and approaching projects in ways that haven’t been previously thought of. In working for The Henker Group, I have realized that, in some way or another, creativity is applied to every project I am faced with. Whether I am working on a client’s website, social media content, or an SEO project, creativity helps aid in my work.
So how exactly do I get my creative juices flowing? Personally, I enjoy a lot of creative activities, whether it be practicing my ukulele, singing with my sister, or painting watercolors of my favorite quotes. However, one of my favorite creative outlets is cake baking and decorating.
Ever since I can remember, I’ve been the designated baker of the family. Any time there’s been an approaching birthday in the family, my grandma gives me a call to see if I am available to make something (this has often involved me traveling on weekends all the way from my apartment at Towson University back to my family home in Easton, MD). Over the years, I’ve made dozens of cakes for friends and family members ranging anywhere from a lovely floral birthday cake for my mother, to a superhero-themed groom’s cake for my brother-in-law. I love seeing the look on people’s faces once they see (and eat) what I’ve made. It’s an incredible feeling to see someone marvel over something you’ve created, but this isn’t the only reason why I consider baking to be one of my passions.
A large reason why I love baking so much is that it helps bring people together. As cliché as this may sound, it’s completely true. Generally, food is renowned for bringing people together. However, more specifically, cakes almost always serve as centerpieces in special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and graduations. I’ve made many birthday cakes and cupcakes, but for my first blog, I have decided to share the most recent batch of treats I baked: some cupcakes I made for my boss’ birthday a few weeks ago. Some colleagues and I decided to surprise her with cards, cupcakes, and “Happy Birthdays” as she walked into that office. On that day, everyone in the office bonded over eating cupcakes together, discussing our current projects, and soaking in some birthday cheer. On that day, we all grew a little bit closer, and I think that’s why I enjoy baking so much.
