Who we are



Wade Cakes
Wade & Arda

Wade van der Merwe

Castle of Cuisine is what Wade van der Merwe prefers to term his dazzling edible creations. Having spent most if this 17 year culinary career, running restaurants and training young chefs, specialising in confectionary, becoming one of the best known pastry chefs in South Africa and working at the Mount Nelson, 5 star Orient Express Hotel for 7 years making the High Tea famous worldwide, and represented South Africa as a member of the South African Culinary Olympic team all over the world – acquiring gold, silver and bronze medals for South Africa.

Wade is passionate about the “sweeter things in life” and his passion shows in every creation from delicate wedding cakes to decadent deserts. Cakes by Wade specialises in creating individually designed and flavoured cakes and confectionary for any special occasion. With a rich history of decadent indulgence and passionate creativity, it remains South Africa’s premier choice for wedding cakes, pastries and desserts.

We categorised the style of confectionary into four basic groups: traditional, formal, modern and abstract. “The wedding cake is a focal point, a highlight, for the bridal couple, but to be an effective part of the greater visual of the day, its decoration is as important as is the venue” he says simply. Using the cake type and design style as basis, the decor of the event as well as the personality of the clients are analysed to select elements which are carried through to the cake decoration, ensuring a rounded whole.



Arda Dinch

Arda immigrated to South Africa in 2002 from Turkey. As a qualified marine biologist and wine maker, he quickly fell in love with pastry and the South African cuisine and finished his studies as a chef in 2006. During this time he met Wade van der Merwe and their business relationship grew from strength to strength.

Both Wade and Arda shares the same unquestionable passion for pastry and coupled with their superior work ethic and professionalism, guarantees any bridal couple an unforgettable wedding cakes.