Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes has become synonymous with artistry, flavor, and community celebration. What began as a leap of faith by founder Michelle Ashley in 2015 has grown into one of Oregon’s most beloved bakeries, with two thriving locations — one in Salem and another in Independence inside Brew Coffee & Taphouse.
From Tech Career to Cake Artist
Michelle’s journey is as inspiring as the cakes she creates. After a long career in the tech industry, she discovered her passion for baking and cake design in 2015. With only a few classes completed, she landed her first cake decorating job at Fred Meyer. Just six months later, her skills and vision led her to strike out on her own.
Initially operating from a licensed home kitchen, Michelle’s reputation for creativity and quality quickly outgrew the space. In July 2018, she opened her first storefront bakery in Salem’s 45th Parallel Shopping Center. Recognition soon followed: gold and silver awards in the Statesman Journal’s Best of the Mid-Valley poll, Best Cupcake and Best Bakery in Best of the Willamette Valley 2020, and Best Wedding Cakes from Willamette Living Magazine. By 2021, Michelle was ranked 5th worldwide in the Amazing Cake Idea’s contest for “World’s Super Skillful Cake Artist,” and her designs were even featured on HGTV. Most impressively, Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes has taken home Gold in Best of the Willamette Valley six years in a row, a testament to its enduring quality and creativity.
A World of Sweet Creations
The bakery’s offerings extend far beyond traditional cakes. While fully custom cakes and cupcakes remain the cornerstone, the menu surprises with variety and innovation:
- Signature and Celebration Cakes – Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions.
- Cupcakes & Gourmet Packs – Scratch-made with artistry in every swirl.
- Wedding Cakes – Showstopping creations for life’s most important celebrations.
- Dessert Buffet Bars – Customized for every event, theme, and occasion, offering guests a one-of-a-kind sweet experience.
- Desserts & Pastries – From cannolis to cheesecakes, tarts to macarons, all baked fresh with Ghirardelli ingredients.
- Dietary-Friendly Options – Gluten-free, keto, and vegan pastries crafted with the same care and creativity.
- Classes – Opportunities for aspiring bakers to learn directly from Michelle and her team.
Reasons to Reach Out to Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes:
- Custom cakes, cupcakes, cake pops, and cupcake bouquets
- Wedding cakes designed to fit your unique vision
- Scratch-made desserts including cheesecakes, tarts, and macarons
- Dessert buffet bars tailored to your event and theme
- Dubai Chocolate Bars available daily in-store
- Artisan pastries, including gluten-free, keto, and vegan options
- Baking and decorating classes for all skill levels
Community and Connection
Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes is more than a bakery — it’s a community hub. By opening a second location in Independence in 2025, the team expanded its reach, making scratch-made treats more accessible. The bakery’s presence at local events, its collaborations with nearby businesses, and its consistent recognition in regional “Best Of” awards reflect its deep roots in the Willamette Valley.
A Sweet Reputation
The accolades and media features speak volumes, but Michelle’s greatest reward comes from helping her customers celebrate life’s milestones. From weddings and birthdays to casual gatherings, each dessert carries the bakery’s signature blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and heart.
Visit Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes
- Salem Location: 2195 Hyacinth St. NE, Suite 101, Salem, OR 97301
- Independence Location: 211 S Main Street, Independence, OR 97351
- Website: michelleashley.com
- Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | TikTok
Whether you’re ordering a wedding centerpiece, grabbing a pastry on your way to work, or creating a dessert buffet that wows your guests, Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes offers a sweet experience you won’t forget.
