About Me
Melissa Hessemer
Pastry Chef & Owner
Every cake is created to mark each milestone event in your life. It's more than just a cake to us, it's an experience!
My Story
From Long Island to Maui - A journey of passion, family, and delicious creations
Early Beginnings
I'm originally from Long Island, New York, where I grew up in an Italian household that focused around food and celebrations. Food was always at the center of our family gatherings, and I learned early on how important it is to create memories around the table.
This foundation of family, food, and celebration would later become the heart of everything I do at Frosted Mermaid.
Family Values
Growing up in an Italian household taught me that food is love, and every celebration deserves something special to mark the occasion.
Professional Training
Formal pastry education in New York laid the foundation for my technical skills and understanding of the craft.
Professional Journey
In 2012, I went to pastry school in New York, where I honed my technical skills and deepened my passion for the craft. After graduation, I moved to San Diego where I worked in a variety of bakeries, both small and large.
I gained experience making various types of breads, pastries, desserts, and cakes. During this time, I also specialized in gluten-free and allergy-friendly baking, learning how to create delicious treats that everyone can enjoy.
Life in Paradise
I've lived on and off Maui since 2007 with my husband and 2 children. This beautiful island has become our home, and it's where I've been able to combine my professional skills with the island's incredible ingredients and laid-back lifestyle.
Maui's natural beauty and the warm Aloha spirit of the community inspire every creation that comes out of my kitchen.
Island Inspiration
Living in Maui allows me to use fresh, local ingredients when available and create flavors that capture the essence of island life.
The Frosted Mermaid
A home-based cake and dessert studio focused on quality and personal service
Licensed Home Kitchen
Operating from a licensed home-based kitchen with a Food Handlers Permit, allowing direct-to-consumer sales throughout Maui.
Commercial Kitchen
We also have access to a commercial kitchen where we produce our wholesale cookies for local retailers across the island.
Quality Focus
We limit the number of orders each week to ensure we can provide the best possible experience for every customer.
Our Philosophy
Fresh & Natural Ingredients
All cakes, cupcakes, and desserts are made with a focus on fresh, natural, gourmet ingredients. We use local ingredients whenever available to support our island community and ensure the freshest flavors.
Creating Experiences
Cakes are the centerpiece of any special event, bringing people closer together for more memorable experiences. We understand that our creations are part of your most important moments.
My Specialties
Areas of expertise that make Frosted Mermaid special
Dietary Accommodations
Specialized in gluten-free and allergy-friendly baking. I understand how important it is that everyone can enjoy delicious desserts, regardless of dietary restrictions.
- Gluten-free options (+$20)
- Dairy-free options (+$20)
- Custom allergy accommodations
Custom Design
Every cake is designed with your vision in mind. I work closely with each client to create something truly special that reflects their style and celebration.
- Custom color schemes
- Unique flavor combinations
- Personalized decorations
Wedding Cakes
Your wedding day deserves something extraordinary. I specialize in creating beautiful wedding cakes that serve as the perfect centerpiece for your special day.
- Multi-tier designs
- Fresh flower decorations
- Delivery and setup available
Island Flavors
Living in Hawaii has inspired me to create unique flavor combinations that capture the essence of the islands while maintaining classic appeal.
- Coconut & tropical fruits
- Lilikoi (passion fruit)
- POG (Passion-Orange-Guava)
Looking Forward
We're excited about the future and have big plans ahead! If you'd like to be part of our next venture, we'd love to hear from you.
New Opportunities
We're always looking for ways to grow and serve our community better. Stay tuned for exciting announcements about new ventures and opportunities.
Get Involved
Interested in becoming an investor or supporting our growth? We'd love to discuss opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs and supporters.