Swirlz Heaven on Earth

I don’t know what heaven looks like but I’m sure it tastes like a Swirlz cupcake. This feeling comes from a self-confessed gelato addict who scoured five cities in Italy one summer to find the best of the best gelato.  Admittedly, that was before I tasted the confectionery art of Swirlz founder and CEO, Pam Rose. 

My Swirlz journey began when I attended an art gallery event hosted by Hilton Asmus Contemporary in Chicago. Gallerist and painter, Arica Hilton, was celebrating world-renowned, high-fashion photographer, Hugh Arnold.  She had gathered a few friends, patrons, and members from the arts community and press industry to enjoy a savory feast. 

The night was a smash hit with art, violin music and the most gorgeous looking cupcakes.  What I loved most were the miniature replicas of Arnold’s underwater photography scenes that were recreated in white chocolate as dessert toppers for each perfect confection. They seemed too beautiful to eat.

But good manners and temptation thankfully got the better of me.  I devoured my first rich chocolate-flavored treat, wrapping the topper in a napkin to bring home for others to admire. Ever a stickler for quality control, I didn’t stop at one and found myself eating two or three more when no one was looking. 

Okay, so the gates of heaven didn’t burst open, but the airy-textured cakes and creamy cloud-like frosting danced in my mouth for a long time in melodious cantilenas.  I was happy and I have followed Pam Rose and her inventively decadent creations ever since. 

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The Business of Swirlz

No surprise, Swirlz is a reflection of Pam’s creativity, goodness and love for others. Swirlz opened in 2006 and delivers cupcakes and related treats to 30 Whole Food stores around the regional Midwest.  There are 13 staff members that keep the business running smoothly, and inspiration comes from everywhere including Pam’s brilliant imagination and the students she mentors in community programs.