You Get What You Pay For (or Buyer Beware)

I recently had a bride cancel a tasting.  When asked why, she told me that she attended another tasting that they liked and told me what she ordered and how much it cost.  A 200 serving cake, 4 tiers, fondant, fresh fruit, etc., for only $600!  That’s $3.00 per serving!

In the world of wedding cakes, we charge per serving.  That’s just the way it’s done.  Bella’s cakes start at $2.75 per serving, and depending on flavors, fillings and design, it may go up from there.  Now, 5 years ago when I started doing weddings, I researched my area, and 3 other bakery’s prices.  I was second from the bottom.  I didn’t want to be the cheapest, and obviously not the most expensive.  I wanted to charge enough to make a profit, but not enough to out price my brides.  I was a happy medium.

Here’s the problem.  When you are dealing with a great, well known bakery, their cakes start at close to $10.00 per serving.  When you are dealing with a legal home baker, I haven’t seen any prices below $3.00 per serving.  So, how can this baker be making any money you ask?  Well, either they are an illegal home baker, with no licensing or insurance (Bella’s has both), or they are a grocery store bakery.

Moral of the story?  Have a budget.  If you are going to a home based baker, ask if they  are licensed and insured, and if there is a contract.  I truly hope this bride gets everything she hopes for in a cake, but I wouldn’t be surprised if she doesn’t.  Remember, you get what you pay for in the wedding business, so do your research well.  Ask for testimonials as well as a contract.  The last thing you want is a problem with your cake.

Best wishes to all my brides,
Lauren