WS Chronicle

Three months ago Winston-Salem native Ta’Nisha Kimbrough took a leap of faith and decided to turn her hobby of baking into a business. Now word of Ta’Nisha Monique Cupcakes is quickly becoming the go to spot for sweet treats in the area. 

Kimbrough, 30, who is a graduate of Parkland High School, said she started baking three years ago after her mother encouraged her to take a cake decorating class at Forsyth Tech. She said, “It kind of just blew up from there.” 

After completing the course, Kimbrough baked and sold made-from-scratch cakes and freshly made cupcakes out of her home for a few years before opening a storefront.  She said it wasn’t until she lost her job that she decided to pursue her hobby full time. 

“I had been telling myself that I wanted to leave my job and eventually do cakes because most of my income was coming from my business but I just continued to put it off,” continued Kimbrough. “… After I lost my job, it kind of felt like sink or swim what are you going to do? So I was like God gave me this talent so, let’s go use it.

“I’m a firm believer that sometimes God will push you where you need to be and where you’re suppose to go and I feel like he pushed me.”

And the rest is history. 

Although the store on North Liberty Street is open throughout the week and most weekends, an official grand opening celebration is scheduled for Sept. 22.

Several reviews from customers say Kimbrough bakes the best cakes and cupcakes in the area. From fresh baked one-of-a-kind cupcakes, including a variety of flavors (20 different flavors every day to be exact), to made-to-order theme cakes that rival those seen on television shows like “Cake Boss,” Kimbrough has proven that she is willing to go above and beyond to make sure the customer’s needs are met. 

She said her willingness to work with clients and try new things is what sets her apart from others.

“My clients are like my family I know I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them so I pride myself on taking care of them. I always bake fresh and I’m very focused on providing the same quality affordable product every time,” she said.

Kimbrough is also using her talents to encourage children to get in the kitchen. A few months ago she started teaching guided cake classes for children.

A mother of two, Kimbrough said the idea for the classes began after showing her daughter the ins and outs. 

“I really have a soft spot for kids. You can mold a kid and tap into their creativity. It’s just so rewarding to be in a room teaching them what I know,” said Kimbrough. “I’ve met some wonderful kids who I’ve built friendships with and they know they’re more than welcome to come in here wash their hands and make these cupcakes. The guided classes have really been a great success.” 

The next guided cake class is scheduled for Sept. 29.

Kimbrough also does her part to help those in need in the community. At the close of each business day, Kimbrough donates whatever isn’t sold to Samaritan Ministries.

“My parents have always given, so that’s just how I was raised. There’re a lot of people out here who need a little help. So yeah, it’s a cupcake, but they may not have eaten all day,” she continued.

Although her business is quickly gaining popularity among consumers across Forsyth County, Kimbrough said this is only the beginning for Ta’Nisha Monique Cupcakes. 

For more information, visit Ta’Nisha Monique Cupcakes on Facebook or stop by the store at 1318 N. Liberty St.