Val’s Creative Cakes providing sweet holiday cheer on Essequibo Coast

The spirit of Christmas is synonymous with the aroma of freshly baked cakes, and in Aurora Estate in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), one name stands out for bringing festive joy through delightful confections — Val’s Creative Cakes.
Founded in 2020 by Chandrawattie Ramnarine-Tillackram, who is affectionately known as “Valenie”, this small business has quickly become a household name for its signature black cakes, cupcakes, and other festive treats; and for Tillackram, baking is more than a business, it’s a cherished tradition passed down from her mother.

“Growing up, I used to help my mom with Christmas baking… My favourite part was always eating the scrapings from the basin,” Valene recalled.
This childhood joy grew into a lifelong passion, and during the challenges of the COVID-19 lockdown, Valene transformed that passion into a thriving enterprise. The journey was not without its emotional moments. With her two daughters leaving home to pursue higher education at the University of Guyana and Hugh Wooding Law School respectively, Valene had found herself grappling with feelings of emptiness.
“Even though I had my husband and two sons, I was still depressed letting go of my girls,” she disclosed.
It was her daughters who encouraged her to start a business, and cake decorating became her solace. Today, Val’s Creative Cakes is renowned for its moist, flavourful black cakes which are a must-have for any Guyanese Christmas celebration.

Valene takes pride in using the finest ingredients and in preparing her fruits months in advance in order to ensure perfection of the end product.
“I start soaking fruits from August. The aroma of baking cakes fills my surroundings and makes everyone feel like Christmas is truly here,” she shared.
Aside from her exquisite cakes, Valenie’s dedication to her customers sets her apart. She creates affordable packages to ensure that every family, regardless of income, can enjoy the holiday tradition of consuming black cake.
“We offer packages starting from quarter-pound cakes, and we give cookies, cupcakes and wine as appreciation gifts. Seeing the excitement on children’s faces when they receive their Christmas cupcakes brings me pure joy,” Valene has said.

Her generosity doesn’t stop there. Through the BIT programme and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Valenie teaches others to bake and decorate cakes. Many of her students have gone on to create their own unique Christmas cakes, and this is a source of pride for her. “Hearing them say, ‘Miss, because of you, I can now bake for my family,’ fills my heart with joy,” a gratified Valene has said.
This holiday season, Valene is anticipating a truly special celebration. With her daughters returning home to join her husband and sons, the family would be reunited under one roof.
“Christmas is a magical time for me, especially with all my children home,” Valene has said.
The artistry of cake-making is, for Valene, not just a matter of business, but a symbol of love, resilience, and joy in giving back to her community. From its signature black cakes to its beautifully decorated cupcakes, Val’s Creative Cakes brings a taste of Christmas to every home they touch. And as the aroma of cakes fills Aurora Estate on the Essequibo Coast, Valene continues to spread sweetness and joy, reminding us all of the true spirit of Christmas — family, tradition, and sharing happiness with others.