frequently asked questions
Why are custom cakes so “expensive”?
There are many factors that go into the cost of making sure your cake is perfect. The differences between one of my cakes and one you would pick up at your local grocery chain are like night and day. The cake you just grabbed from the bakery counter at Costco was shipped frozen weeks before, pulled out of the freezer and slathered in canned frosting right before you came to pick it up (one of about 50 that decorator did for the day), a cake from Scratch By Sarah, a one-of-a kind...designed, baked from scratch with the freshest ingredients, and decorated just for you. Even some of my smallest cakes can take 4-5 hours to complete, with larger cakes taking 10, 12, or 20 hours over the course of several days. Your cake will most likely have hand sculpted and/or hand painted details I have tried to make absolutely perfect before it leaves my kitchen.
How long in advance do I need to place my order?
I require at least 2 weeks advance notice; sometimes more during busy times. Keep in mind I am a one-woman-show so I can only take on what I can realistically produce in any given amount of time. I also need to ensure there is sufficient time to source specialty items needed (such as molds, cutters, specialty ingredients, etc.) to complete any handmade decorations for the design of your cake.
Why is my deposit non-refundable?
On the front end, I spend time designing your cake, sourcing materials, working up a quote, etc. so I have already spent valuable time on something I have received no payment for. Once you place your order with me and pay your deposit, I block off time on my calendar and don’t take anymore cake requests. If you cancel your order, you are then essentially pulling money directly out of my pocket. Not to mention, I may have already begun to work on your order, so if you cancel at the last minute, that is time (and money) lost. All money paid on cancelled orders will be applied as credit to a future order.
Does my cake need to be refrigerated?
Most of my cakes do not need to be refrigerated once delivered or picked up as long as they are kept in a cool, dry spot out of direct sunlight. Remember, cakes are climate sensitive, and extreme temperatures or humidity can cause damage. Once it leaves my hands, it is your responsibility to make sure it is served in the condition it was presented to you in, as I assume no liability. If you do decide to refrigerate your cake, it should be taken out 2 to 4 hours (depending on size) before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Once cut, your cake should be tightly wrapped and kept at room temperature or refrigerated and eaten with 4-5 days for optimal freshness.