Five years after opening her first bakery in Brentwood, SusieCakes founder Susan Sarich has whipped up a delicious empire that is anything but cookie-cutter. Despite a less-than-sweet economy, her walk-in and catering efforts are thriving. She employs 120 individuals in six California stores. And, she’s built an entire brand based on a few old family recipes.

“The bakery is a tribute to my grandmothers and their recipes and everything that was a part of my childhood,” says Sarich. “I don’t think either of them could have imagined a business model built on their 4×6 recipe cards.”

On Saturday, Aug. 13, all six SusieCakes locations marked the retro-cool bakery’s fifth birthday with a 1950s-themed beach party – including complimentary treats, music and children’s activities.

“Red velvet is our most popular cake by far. It outsells the other cakes four to one. Weddings, christenings, showers…you name it, people are ordering red velvet,” Sarich says.

The celebration also includeed games and coloring contests for children, and DJs spun beach tunes throughout the afternoon. As an added treat, five percent of sales recorded during each anniversary event benefited local charities.

Guests who didn’t make the party can still get in on the fun. Through Aug. 31, bakers are invited to submit their favorite five-ingredient dessert recipe via the SusieCakes Facebook page. Sarich will then choose one recipe to be featured at select SusieCakes locations during the month of September.

For more information, a full SusieCakes menu and a link to the contest page, visit www.susiecakesbakery.com.

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