FAQs
What should I be aware of before I begin shopping for a wedding cake?
This information piece titled "Things every bride needs to know before shopping for a wedding cake" by Earlene Moore covers many important points which should be considered. At her request, I have provided a direct link to the information - www.earlenescakes.com/thingsbrdshldknow.htm .
How does your cake package pricing differ from other bakers?
I have created a cake package pricing system because I believe the customer would prefer to have a total "out the door" cost rather than be quoted a lower cost per serving and then told that filling will be extra, pillars and plates are extra, square or heart shape is extra etc. My package price includes everything needed for a beautiful and delicious wedding cake. Upgrades to specialty recipes, fillings, frosting and cake design level are available as an option.
What is rolled fondant and why is it more expensive?
Fondant is a sweet sugar icing that has the consistency of sugar cookie dough. It is rolled out like a pie crust and draped over a cake which has been first coated in buttercream frosting or apricot glaze. This method has been used in Europe for years and is gaining in popularity here in the USA. Additional expense is incurred because it is like icing your cake twice, first with the layer of buttercream and then the fondant. It is more labor intensive therefore it costs more. Click here to see a fondant covered cake.
I love the look of the rolled fondant but does it taste good? I've heard it doesn't.
Fondant has gotten some bad publicity but there are several brands of rolled fondant on the market that do taste better than others. If this is the look you want, I will provide a sample for you to taste during the consultation so you can decide for yourself. Also keep in mind that it is rolled out to 1/4th of an inch thick so by the time the cake is cut each serving has just a small amount of fondant on it and it has a layer of buttercream frosting underneath.
Do you allow walk-ins, or must I make an appointment?
Providing excellent customer service by giving you undivided attention is of utmost importance. Therefore an appointment is required for the consultation and cake sampling. During the consultation you will have the opportunity to share your ideas, discuss your concerns, ask any questions you may have regarding your wedding cake and sample some of the available flavors of cake, filling and frosting. Consultations generally last about one hour.
How far in advance of my wedding date should I schedule a consultation?
The sooner the better, I only accept a few orders each week allowing me to give your cake the attention it deserves. Currently, my customers are booking 5-6 months in advance with some booking as much as 10 months prior. You can contact me by calling 301-481-9901 or via email at anita@anitasweddingcakes.com to schedule your consultation.
I can't decide on a cake design, can you help me?
If you are having trouble finding ideas I have books, magazines and a power point slide presentation that you are welcome to look at prior to your appointment. Just let me know in advance that you would like to come in to look through them. This advance preparation will make your consultation more productive allowing us to discuss the design styles you like or don't like. Through this process we will design a cake that is suited uniquely for you.
What should I bring with me to the consultation?
Bring your ideas, cake pictures from books or magazines, color and /or fabric swatches and anything else that inspires your vision of your cake. Your groom, mother, mother-in-law, maid of honor or trusted friend are also welcome but please bear in mind that the consultation room will accommodate myself and two or three other persons comfortably. In addition, please bring contact information for your reception site and other vendors you will be using such as florist, decorator, wedding planner, photographer etc.
Can I get more than one cake flavor or does it all have to be the same?
Multiple cake and filling flavors can be requested. If applicable, costs for specialty recipes will apply to the number of servings for the tier size. A word of caution - your guests may want to sample more than one flavor which can cause you to run short of cake if quantities have not been adjusted to account for this.
What is the standard serving size and who cuts the cake?
The standard wedding cake serving size is 1" x 2" by the cake height (usually 3-4"). Generally, your caterer will cut the cake. Some charge a fee for this service so be sure to ask. If you are not having a formally catered event then you can bestow the honor on a couple of friends or family members. It only requires a sharp, thin knife and two persons are required so that the person actually cutting the cake does not have to handle the plates. A cake cutting chart with instructions and plastic glove will be provided. Wearing a plastic glove allows the person cutting the cake to easily lift and place each slice on the plate. Don't try to cut the cake with the serving set you may have purchased, while they look pretty and are fine for photographs of the cake cutting ceremony, you or your caterer will want to make a sharp, thin knife available for the actual cutting and serving of the cake.
When do you require payment and the final count?
50% of the total cost is due at the signing of the cake agreement; this is required to secure your date. The remaining balance due and the final count must be received at least 21 days prior to your wedding date. After such time no changes can be made to your order.
Do you accept credit cards for payment?
Yes, I am able to
process payments using Visa or MasterCard credit cards or debit/check cards. As long as the card
has the Visa or MasterCard logo on it I am able to accept it.
Why do I have to pay a security deposit for the equipment you supply with the cake?
This deposit will cover my replacement costs in the event the items are not returned to me. I utilize the sturdiest stress-free support system in the industry which is more costly than the standard wooden dowel rods, however, I believe it is a worthwhile investment to ensure the success of your cake. Of course I always prefer to promptly refund your deposit with the return of the equipment rather than have to replace the items. The responsibility of returning the items should be given to a reliable person, remember you will most likely still be on your honeymoon when the "Return by" date arrives. A list of items to be returned will be provided for you.
Do you make cakes for other special occasions?
Yes, stacked or tiered cakes for celebrations such as anniversaries, quinceañeras, Sweet 16 birthdays, etc will be serviced just like a wedding cake. Miniature tiered wedding cakes are a wonderful way to serve cake at a bridal shower or to send home with your wedding guests. Contact me to see if the date of your special occasion is available. In addition, my Custom Order Special Occasion Cakes are available through Celebrate with Cake And More! located in the Celebration Station, 22330 Chancellors Run Road, Great Mills, MD 20634. Stop in to place your order or call 301-863-7611.