A custom cake is often the centerpiece of a celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, baby shower, engagement, or corporate event, the right cake can turn a special occasion into an unforgettable memory.
Yet, despite the excitement of ordering a custom cake, many customers unknowingly make a few common mistakes that can lead to disappointment, unnecessary stress, or last-minute compromises.
At Mrs. BakeRS, we’ve helped hundreds of customers bring their dream cakes to life. Here are the five most common mistakes people make when ordering a custom cake—and how you can avoid them.
1. Ordering Too Late
One of the biggest misconceptions about custom cakes is that they can be created overnight.
While simple cakes may require only a few hours, customized cakes often involve design planning, sourcing special elements, preparing decorations, and multiple stages of baking and assembly.
Many customers contact bakers just one or two days before an event, only to discover that their preferred baker is already fully booked.
How to Avoid It
For best results, place your order:
- 7–10 days in advance for standard custom cakes
- 2–3 weeks in advance for elaborate designs
- 1 month in advance during festive and wedding seasons
Early booking gives your baker enough time to create something truly special.
2. Choosing Design Over Taste
We’ve all seen stunning cakes on social media.
Tall tiers.
Metallic finishes.
Intricate details.
While visual appeal is important, a cake should taste just as amazing as it looks.
Sometimes customers focus entirely on the appearance and overlook flavour selection, filling choices, and guest preferences.
How to Avoid It
Think about your guests.
Ask yourself:
- Who will be eating the cake?
- Do they prefer chocolate or fruit flavours?
- Would they enjoy something classic or trendy?
- Is the celebration indoors or outdoors?
The perfect cake balances beauty and flavour.
Because let’s be honest—people remember how a cake tasted long after the photographs are forgotten.
3. Ordering the Wrong Size
Few things are more awkward than running out of cake.
Equally frustrating is having an excessive amount left over.
Many people underestimate or overestimate the number of servings required.
How to Avoid It
As a simple guide:
- 10–15 guests → 1 kg cake
- 20–25 guests → 2 kg cake
- 30–40 guests → 3 kg cake
- 50+ guests → Consult your baker
Don’t forget to consider whether cake is being served as dessert or just a celebratory slice.
A good baker can recommend the ideal size based on your guest count.
4. Not Sharing a Clear Reference
Sometimes customers say:
“Make something elegant.”
Or:
“I trust your creativity.”
While bakers appreciate creative freedom, these descriptions can mean very different things to different people.
What one person considers elegant may be completely different from another’s vision.
How to Avoid It
Share:
- Inspiration photos
- Colour palettes
- Theme details
- Invitation cards
- Decor references
The more information you provide, the better your baker can understand your expectations.
Remember: reference images are inspiration, not exact replicas.
The goal is to create something uniquely yours.
5. Ignoring Delivery and Setup Requirements
Certain cakes require special handling.
Tall cakes, tiered cakes, fondant cakes, and outdoor event cakes all have different transportation and storage requirements.
Many customers focus on the cake design but forget to discuss practical details.
How to Avoid It
Before the event, confirm:
- Delivery location
- Delivery timing
- Setup requirements
- Storage conditions
- Outdoor exposure
- Cake cutting time
A little planning ensures your cake arrives looking exactly as intended.
Bonus Tip: Trust Your Baker’s Expertise
One of the most valuable resources you have is your baker’s experience.
Professional bakers understand:
- Which designs work best
- Which flavours are crowd favourites
- Seasonal considerations
- Weather challenges
- Portion planning
Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
Sometimes the best cakes are the result of collaboration between your vision and your baker’s expertise.
Final Slice
Ordering a custom cake should be exciting—not stressful.
By planning ahead, choosing the right size, communicating your vision clearly, and trusting your baker’s guidance, you’ll enjoy a smoother experience and a cake that’s every bit as memorable as your celebration.
At Mrs. BakeRS, we believe every celebration deserves a cake that’s beautiful, delicious, and thoughtfully crafted.
Planning a special occasion? We’d love to help bring your dream cake to life.