Flavour Report with Derek Goforth: Sammy Kerr’s Coastal Cakes is a story of resilience and healing

Behind Sammy Kerr’s exquisite creations and delectable flavours lies a deeply personal story of resilience and healing.

Sammy owns and operates Coastal Cakes, which has become a popular brand among local dessert enthusiasts, a venture that is also testament to the power of creativity and community.

Sammy and her family have faced unimaginable tragedy, enduring every parent’s worst nightmare — not once, but twice.

“In October 2023, we lost our son Nate at 27 weeks,” she shared.

“In October 2024, we lost our daughter Maddison at 21 weeks.”

Despite the heartbreak, Sammy shares her tragedy in the hope of helping others.

“It’s definitely a very lonely journey. If my story could help anyone else, then it would be a blessing,” she said.

Amid the pain, baking became a source of solace and strength.

Coastal Cakes has grown into more than just a side business. Immersing herself in the world of cake artistry allowed Sammy to channel her grief into something tangible and uplifting.

“Knowing I can bring joy to someone’s special day means everything to me,” she said.

Coastal Cakes does not have a storefront, so Sammy delivers her handcrafted creations direct to her clients. This face-to-face interaction fits perfectly with Sammy’s philosophy and personable nature.

Her attention to detail shines in every order, whether it’s intricately designed cookies or cupcakes adorned with her signature hybrid Swiss meringue buttercream.

“Unlike a lot of the cake makers in town, I use a hybrid Swiss meringue buttercream,” Sammy explains.

“It’s a lot fluffier and less sickly sweet compared to American buttercream. It’s what my clients know me for, which is nice.”

This food reviewer can confidently attest that Sammy’s cakes and cookies are worth every cent. A dozen cupcakes topped with her divine buttercream are priced at $80, while her beautifully decorated cookies start at $6.50 each.

I initially struggled to eat her creations because they are genuine little works of art. But once you take that first bite, you’re so glad you did. The flavours are perfectly balanced, the cupcakes light and airy, and the buttercream delicately piped with a clear and evident love. Her hybrid Swiss buttercream is so light and delicate, it feels like you’re indulging without the guilt.

The cookies are equally exceptional, making them the perfect gift. Each one is hand-designed and painted, almost too beautiful to eat. Yet, the balance of flavours ensures they’re as delightful to taste as they are to admire.

Sammy’s love for baking began in childhood, inspired by her mother’s creations from the Women’s Weekly Kids’ Cake Book. She fondly recalls making cupcakes for workers at her family’s business during school holidays.

Her passion reignited years later while baking a cake for her son’s first birthday — a moment that sparked the beginning of Coastal Cakes.

Today, Sammy’s creations are inspired by role models such as Australian buttercream expert Leigh Hodgkins and baking science educator Maggie Dmochowski.

Sammy’s resilience and compassion extend beyond her kitchen.

She thinks long and hard about what she wants to say to anyone struggling with grief or loss.

“It’s OK not to be OK,” she shares. “It’s OK to ask for help and to accept help. Don’t ever apologise for talking about your loss or your child. They deserve to be remembered too.”

I cannot recommend Coastal Cakes highly enough for your sweet gifts at Christmas, or for a special cake for a birthday or any occasion.

Coastal Cakes is more than a business — it’s a reflection of a family’s journey through love, loss, and healing. Sammy’s artistry is not just about creating desserts - it’s about crafting moments of joy and connection.

Treat yourself or a loved one — you’ll be supporting a remarkable story and savouring the finest sweets our town has to offer.

Sammy can be found on both Facebook and Instagram under Coastal Cakes.