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The competition is on!

Don't miss some of the industry's best decorating talent as they compete in What's in Store Live! Our annual live cake decorating event showcases their skills in real time in front of thousands of industry professionals.

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Lisa Dowling

Market of Choice

Cake Decorator

Lisa Dowling

Sara Riviera

Super Saver Foods

Master Decorator

Sara Riviera

Max Schultz

Safeway

Cake Decorator & Mixed Media Artist

Max-Schultz

Debbie Spies

LoveCakes by Dorothy Lane Market

Cake Decorator & Wedding Cake Designer

Debbie-Spies

Cake'd is a true showcase of skills!

Contestants submitted one photo for each of the following categories:

  • Cupcake arrangement (minimum of 6 cupcakes)

  • Small multilayer cake (less than 8" in diameter)

  • Cookie cake (minimum of 12" diameter)

  • Sheet cake (quarter, half, or full size)

  • 3-tier cake (base layer at least 10" in diameter)

A panel of industry experts reviewed and judged each portfolio. The top four decorators have been selected to compete live at IDDBA 2026 in Orlando, where the winner will receive a trophy and industry recognition. Portfolios were judged on the following criteria, each rated on a 1-10 scale:

  • Originality: The cake is unique and creative, demonstrating thought and effort. It may incorporate unusual ingredients, colors, or decorations.

  • Presentation: The cake is visually appealing, well-shaped, and clean. Decorations are well-placed, balanced, and free of debris.

  • Difficulty: The cake is technically challenging, requiring skill and experience. It may feature advanced techniques.

  • Design: The cake has a clear theme that is consistently reflected in the decorations, which complement each other and the theme.

  • Overall Appearance: The cake looks professional and well-made, showing a high level of care and attention.

If you have any questions about the Cake'd Challenge or competing in Cake'd please email wisl@iddba.org.

All applicants must be currently employed by an IDDBA retail member.

2026 Finalists Have Been Selected