CARYN  LYLES  PASTRY  CHEF. 

Baking isn’t just a job for me—it’s a lifelong passion and a true expression of creativity. It’s an opportunity to connect, to celebrate, and yes, to make a glorious mess! My love for baking began in my mom’s kitchen, where we spent countless hours trying out recipes, getting flour everywhere, and making memories I’ll always treasure. Those early experiences inspired me to dive deeper, studying culinary arts throughout high school and later pursuing a degree in the Science of Baking and Pastry Arts from Sullivan University in Louisville, Kentucky.

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My professional journey truly began at Nord’s Bakery, a third-generation institution where I learned how to create stunning cakes and artisan breads. It was here that I found my calling, honing my skills and experiencing the joy that comes from bringing a vision to life in buttercream.

 

Over the years, my path has led me to incredible mentors and opportunities to refine my craft, from developing unique recipes to mastering intricate buttercream textures and elegant gold-leaf accents that make each wedding cake unforgettable. One significant chapter was my time at Branch Out, where I learned the art of gluten-free baking—a skill that became deeply personal for me, as I’ve navigated my own gluten-free lifestyle. This journey has shown me the importance of delicious, beautiful options for everyone, and I’m passionate about bringing that same level of joy to clients with dietary needs.

 

Now, with Baked by Caryn, I’m honored to share my creative abilities with couples celebrating one of the most meaningful days of their lives. Designing custom wedding cakes allows me to bring each couple’s story to life, crafting cakes that are not only visually stunning but full of flavor and heart. From rich, textured layers to delicate, hand-piped details, I’m here to ensure every cake captures the spirit of the occasion and becomes a lasting memory.

 

I love seeing the joy on my clients' faces when they see their dream wedding cake come to life. This joy also led me to teach classes, where I get to share my love of baking with others—whether they’re young kids decorating their first cake or adults finding their inner artist with edible glitter. For me, baking is all about making people happy, celebrating life’s big and little moments, and spreading creativity. I hope I can continue to inspire that same spark in others, just like the one that first lit up my world in my mom’s kitchen.