1. Where do I start? Fill out the cake inquiry form by clicking on the "Cake Inquiries" link at the top of this webpage. That will lead you to a submission form to fill out so I can help you navigate the process.
2. How far in advance should I place my order? Two weeks notice is recommended for requesting an order, however, there are limited spots available. Once those spots are filled, no additional orders can be accepted. The sooner the order is placed, the more likely your request will be able to be filled.
3. What is this rush fee? I require two weeks notice for cake orders. In the event that I am able to accommodate an order on shorter notice, I do charge a rush fee. I often am required to come up with design ideas on shorter notice and sometimes have extra charges for supplies. I also spend more time searching for supplies needed that can be shipped by the time that the cake needs to be completed.
4. Is my spot reserved when I contact you for an order? Unfortunately, spots are not reserved until a deposit is made for your order. There is a 50% deposit due to reserve your spot and the remainder is due before you pick up your order.
5. How much should I expect to pay for a cake? Prices vary based upon the size and design of the cake. The prices listed on the menu are base prices for an undecorated cake that is frosted without any design. Prices increase based upon time, difficulty, and materials needed for a design. A cake takes a minimum of 3-4 hours per cake (even the small ones), and most cakes typically take 4 or 5+ hours. All of my cakes are baked from scratch. Frosting needs to be colored, piped, and some decorations can be extremely time consuming (those pointillism cakes easily take 5+ hours). Ingredients, particularly butter, good quality chocolate, and those fun sprinkle medleys (I know, sprinkles?!?), are costly. Cake materials, including molds and decorating supplies such as piping bags, tips, cake boards and boxes add up as well. All of those factors are taken into account when providing cake and order estimates.
6. I've sent you a picture of a cake, can you replicate it? I do not recreate cake designs. I can oftentimes do something similar, but will not be able to provide an exact replica. I'm always happy to create something new based on the visions you have and describe for your cake. Please take a look at my gallery. The majority of the cakes are my own personal designs. I draw inspiration from all over, but my best cakes come from my own design creations. Like anyone else involved in creating, I have strengths and weaknesses. I know what I am capable of and what I cannot do. I will always let you know when something is outside my abilities. My style is artsy, edgy, and a little bit abstract. I tend to follow a lot of the baking trends in the baking community.
7. What's the deal with fondant and gumpaste? I've found that most people do not like the taste of fondant, and although edible, gum paste really isn't designed to be eaten (I see you fondant lovers)! Sculpting figurines is also not one of my strengths. Fondant can increase prices tremendously and is very time consuming. As stated above, I also tend to follow the trends of the baking community, and buttercream designs are far more popular these days, so I've stopped using fondant. If you have a cake you like with a fondant design, I'm sometimes able to make it work with buttercream. I also frequently recommend using figurines or I have a few sources for incredible custom-made cake toppers!
8. Do you make gluten, egg, dairy free, or nut free bakes? Unfortunately, I can not accommodate those allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions at this time.