Sweet Traders, Huntington Beach

For the last decade, pastry chef Rachael Louw and her husband Francois have perfected the art of cake-making at Sweet Traders, a boutique bakery that's attracted the attention of wedding websites and salivating customers alike. One look at the bakery's offerings and you'll find plenty of tasty choices for special events of all kinds. Cupcakes—made with American-style cake and European-inspired butter frosting in more than 20 flavors—form edible towers that are perfect for weddings, baby showers, or a gingerbread man in need of a guest house. Shoppers also have their choice of full-size cakes and other sweet treats such as fruit tarts, chocolate marshmallow pops, and tiramisu shooters.

But freshly-made baked goods aren't the only indulgences at Sweet Traders. The gourmet shop also offers chocolates and wines in decorative baskets—or even mixed together. Chocolate-dipped champagne bottles combine the two treats into one perfect gift for anyone who ever wished a bottle was easier to eat.