He came up to me at work and said, "I hear you're the keeper of the cakes!" Really cheesy. This guy wanted the whole world... for as low a price as possible. I've only sold two cakes so far, but I'm not about to short-change myself just because I'm a beginner. So I made a few suggestions, quoted a few prices and I haven't heard from him since. That was close one! I could have become my workplace's discount baker.

I think the hardest thing I have done so far is charging the right price. I cried just before I delivered my second cake because I thought my customer would be so disappointed in my skill. I was ready to give him the cake with his money back while apologizing profusely. That was so overly dramatic. He was very pleased.

Thanks to everyone who has posted to us newbies not to undercut our own work. It's very very hard to do, but thanks for all your encouragement!

Jill

I hear ya! I have family that thinks I ought to give them cakes all the time just because I'm kinda new at decorating. Good for you for sticking to your guns!

I didnt' mind bringing in cakes and cookies to the office once in awhile WHEN I HAD THE TIME, but as I got busier my standard answer to freebie requests became, "My oven time is now at maximum capacity. There's no such thing as a freebie anymore. You want cookies, then you place an order and I'll let you know when I can fit it in my schedule."

I have had several people at work ask me about making their relative a cake and most seem to want a discount. It was really hard for me to get to the point that I didn't care if they came back after I discussed price with them, but now if they want a cheap cake, that's really ok with me. I just don't want to make it.

I went to my Christmas party tonight...with no cake. It was awesome....I had several people ask me which cake I brought with me and I enjoyed saying...I didn't bring one this year.

It is very easy to get into a self destruct mode, but often times the average person does not see the little things that we see as decorators. Most of the time people are pleased to see their cake and think its great even though we may not be as pleased with it. Don't be too hard on yourself, the more you do the better you will get. The pricing is hard, but your best bet is too check your area out for what they are charging, it will give you a basis too start. As far as other decorators that may not be advertising and are home based, I have found out through other people or florists where they have someones name that does cakes. Knowing your competition will help.

Hi Jill,

Good for you .

If it's your intention to sell cakes, then you can't give them away!

And you're so right not to "become the discount baker" - that niche belongs to Wal-Mart.

You go girl

Look forward to watching your gallery grow!