About us

To tell the story of dessert designs is to tell a story about family, friends, and a labour of love that would turn a dream into a destiny of making delicious cakes for not only Nashvillians, but people all across the country. 

The taste of our delicacies could be described as extravagant, but the origins are humble. From her home, in 1971, Leland Riggan began selling her first cakes, breads, and other desserts to locals through word of mouth only. Joined shortly after by her late husband Steve, who brought business savvy plus an artistic touch to design and cake decoration, it didn’t take long for the mom-and-pop startup to become a staple in Nashville confectionery, a sweet success that continues to this day. The couple incorporated their business in 1991 and nearly half a century later, the bakery remains a true mom and pop establishment, still run by family and friends. 

Known for their incomparable caramel, it is fittingly described as “liquid gold”. From outstanding wedding cakes to birthday cakes to the often sought out caramel and hallelujah bundts sold daily at the store front, Dessert Designs has carried on a noble and delicious tradition of some of the best desserts in the state of Tennessee.