The new series of Bake Off has returned to our screens, which has reminded me that I’ve not shared my Cake Off experience with you. Like some of the best bookings I have taken on over the years, this Cake Off didn’t happen by chance. It happened because I love to network and have been doing so for over 10 years. It happened through a sequence of recommendations and referrals that lead me to the female president of the organisation that brought me on board. A lady who wanted something a little different and thought a hands-on activity was an excellent way to break the ice between participants. Participants, from around the world, who did not know each other particularly well. She was certainly correct, the session went down a treat. Lots of laughter, lots of fun, a winner – after all it was a contest and new friendships formed.
The Cake Off Task
Lindt chocolatiers were one of the sponsors of the day, so to me, it seemed an obvious choice to set the challenge of decorating a chocolate drip cake. Unlike Bake Off, my participants had no former knowledge of cake decorating and certainly had no time to practice. They did, however, have my examples to inspire then and a quick lesson before they got started.
Armed with chocolate truffles, coloured sugarpastes and a giant pan of chocolate ganache to dip into, everyone set to work. Some participants just used my examples as a reference, but as often happens the creativity in the room once sparked lead to wildfire. Everyone started trying to outdo their neighbours, with hilarious results!
And the Winner Is….
It must have been a difficult decision. However, the panel of judges chose this adorable chocolate truffle snowman inspired by the film ‘Frozen’.
The Pavilion at the 18th hole
I should have mentioned that the Cake Off took place on the first floor of the purpose built pavilion overlooking the 18th hole at Wentworth golf course, during the BMW PGA Championships. WOW…what a privilege. Much of the Cake off was filmed and apparently shown the next day on the large screens surrounding the green. I hope the viewers found it as entertaining as we did up on the first floor.
Below is a quick whizz around, filmed on my phone, showing the ladies having fun. You might even spot the champagne flowing too!
If you are looking for an interactive team building activity or running a ‘getting to know you’ event, do get in touch. I have all sorts of ideas up my sleeve!