First I'd like to thank all of you who responded to my posting of "? $1 per slice"; I declined the position.
I was asked by the bakery to make 5 wedding cake dummies, in different designs, for the venue they are working with. The bakery will be receiving the cake orders (not me). Due to this fact I felt I should charge the same amount that I would normally charge if I was making the real thing for a customer. The eyes of the owners buldged out of their socketd. What are your thoughts???? I don't want to overcharge for these displays but don't want to be taken advantage of either. Could definetly use some advice to this matter.
TIA,
Sandy

I think it is up to you but most people I have talked to charge about 25 - 30 % less for dummies than real cake. Not because the dummies are cheaper but because you save the labour of the baking time. They still need to pay for the decorating time and cover your costs.

Personally, I wouldn't make the dummies either. I don't understand why the bakery would want your work displayed, if you aren't the same decorator that would be filling the orders. Wouldn't they rather showcase the skills (or lack of skills) of the person who will actually be doing the work?

I think the same. And you save the baking time, but the styrofoam (molded or carving) has a cost and labour.

Right...#1 they should not be displaying work that does not belong to their skills...

#2, if you did sell them, yep they should be regular price, and my regular price for dummies is $1 less per serving than real cake.

Thanks for your replies. You gave me food for thought.