I have read a few posts on here regarding if someone should/shouldn't take cake classes...the expense etc. I am only a hobby baker that loves decorating. But at our ICES classes I took a couple classes (they were a gift from my husband) and I learned so much. I've been on CC for years but learned things in class that I never read about on here. Plus, just the hand-on experience with pros helping you through the steps and showing you where you can improve is priceless. Just hearing the story of how they "made it" is really inspiring. Not to mention meeting other people who have the same passion for sugar arts. The amount of tips/tricks you learn at events like this is amazing. For me, the price is worth the amount you take from it, the pride you feel in your finished piece and the friends you make along the way.

I totally agree. I am also a hobby baker but took a class this weekend at the NCACS. I LOVED it! It was pricey but worth it to meet new people and learn techniques, plus get to see some spectacular cakes!!!