Do I need to take a deposit?

by Chelsea
(UP of Michigan)

Hi! I love your site, I think I use it everyday to answer some sort of question I have. I have been asked to do a wedding cake and its a big order! Its a 4 tier cake with 2 sheet cakes. Its going to cost me quite a bit to make, so should I ask for a deposit to cover some of that or do you get all the payment at the end? I am just starting my business out my home and haven't dealt with anything like this yet!

Hi Chelsea, First of all congratulations on starting your cake decorating business! And I am happy that my website has helped you with other questions about wedding cakes.

Yes you need to get a deposit to hold that date and to cover up front costs.

Here is what I do: When the couple orders the cake I take a deposit of half. Two weeks before the wedding, they pay the remaining due and any refundable deposits to cover the plastic plates and pillars or in my case the Cake Stackers that I use. You will will need to explain this to them when they order the cake. Write up some sort of a contract (doesn't have to be fancy) and have them sign it stating the above. In all of my years making wedding cakes I have been lucky that not one couple has canceled or not paid on time. Hopefully you will have the same positive experience. Good Luck and please share some of your creations here. We would love to see them and hear about them. Link to cake decorating pictures page.