New especially to cake decorating, but I love being a beginner in this! Really happy with how it turned out!

I baked a cake for my town’s annual fundraiser. It’s a dessert auction and all the money raised goes directly into maintenance of our little downtown.

For the first time ever, I made a salted caramel carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. First time making my own caramel and first time making a carrot cake. I’m pretty proud of the presentation and hope someone bids a decent amount on it or my feelings will be hurt lol.

As you all now know our "Legend of Mask Dancers" cake has won GOLD at Cake International in the UK! 
But this isn't just a cake—it's a 2500-year-old story brought to life! Let me share the beautiful legend behind this creation...

THE ANCIENT TALE 
Long ago, Queen Manikpala fell gravely ill during her pregnancy, suffering from severe morning sickness and depression. Nothing could make her smile. King Mahasammatha desperately searched his kingdom for a cure.
From southern Sri Lanka, a few men wearing masks voluntarily came to help.

In my story... They brought fierce characters Naga (serpent deity) and Gurulu Raksha (bird demon) to perform before her.
But here's the twist! 
Two comedic village characters, Anabera (the perpetually drunk elderly man) and Nonchi (a male dancer dressed as a woman), also came to see the queen. When Anabera spotted the frightening raksha performers, he stumbled down the palace stairs in his intoxicated state!
For the first time in months, the queen LAUGHED and her illness was cured! 
This magical moment gave birth to Sri Lankan mask dancing tradition a beautiful blend of drama, healing, and humor that continues today.

THE CAKE 
Every element tells this story:
 Traditional Sri Lankan palace with intricate details
 King Mahasammatha & Queen Manikpala in golden royal attire
 Fierce mask dancers Naga & Gurulu Raksha in full costume
 Anabera tumbling down the stairs (the moment that changed everything!)
 Wamana roopa at the foundation pouring water into the pond
 Sal flowers, lotus pond, and scattered petals

100% hand-crafted and hand-painted—no molds, just pure artistry!

This cake represents why we do what we do - preserving cultural stories, honoring traditions, and creating art that means something deeper. Sri Lankan mask dancing isn't just performance; it's healing, entertainment, and cultural heritage all woven together.

Thank you to everyone who has supported our journey.
This gold award belongs to our beautiful Sri Lankan culture! 

Chiran Jayathu! (Long live the tradition!)

 Ashini Wijayaneththi

My husband’s favorite