What do you usually do at one of these? I have my first one tomorrow and I want to make sure I take care of everything. I have a contract ready, and of course we will consult and taste cake. Does anyone have any pointers, suggestions, etc? Walk me through this!

I usually make 3-4 different flavors of cupcakes with different fillings and icings for tasting. I also make sure I have my portfolio and maybe some printed pages of cakes you found online to give the bride some different ideas (especially if you know what kind of look she is going for) or I also do drawings of designs. I make sure I have my contract ready. I just usually discuss what look they are going for, serving sizes, any design ideas and then I do the tasting. All of the consulations I have had have not lasted more than 30-45 minutes (but I have only had six).
Good Luck & hope that helped,
Heather

Ask that the bride (and whomever she's bringing) bring with her the following:

Pictures, drawings, cutouts, etc. of what she likes.

A swatch of fabric from her dress (if at all available or needed for matching colors/textures)

Ask that they not bring children. Distracts from the meeting. All but impossible to do it right with a lil' one there.

Get the number of people she's serving. Ask if it's a punch/coffee type reception, or if it's a dinner reception. Dinner receptions don't usually need as much cake.

NEVER give a "ballpark" price at the consultation. Wait and figure out the full (outside range) cost of making the cake(s). That way, you're not losing money, and she's not disappointed with a raise in pricing.

HTH,
--Knox--

Thanks guys! These are good tips. I just finished the cupcakes last night and I am decorating a 6, 4" cake to look like the picture she sent me. I can use all the help I can get being new to the wedding cake scene!