Nothing says 'structural integrity' like a homemade lemon drizzle cake
(Yes, it tasted as good as it looks! :) )
In the 1990’s I did an inspection of a large house in Highgate, North London. The house was owned at that time by a well known cook who had written several books and was a tv celebrity in her own right. I recognised her immediately when she invited me into the house. She offered me a coffee and we sat down to go through the usual formalities and then, just before I started my inspection, she asked me “what is your favourite cake?”.
That isn’t a question that someone asks very often but quick as a flash I replied, “lemon drizzle”. She said that she would make one while I did the inspection! Sure enough, she did make the cake and we sat down to eat it with another coffee later in the day. It was superb, as would probably be expected. She then told me that she was writing a new book of dessert recipes and asked whether I would try some and give her my feedback.
She presented me with five different desserts. I tasted each one and told her whether I liked it or not.
This happened about 30 years ago and I can still recall it and I have told the story many times.
Fast forward 30 years and it happened again! The photo here is of the cake.
Little moments like this are great examples of good communication skills and helping the homeowner feel at ease. It also makes for a great story and a nice addition to good cup of coffee 🙂
