I recently resigned from my job in the business and legal world (accountant, 8 yrs, legal assistant 1 year) to pursue my dream of cake decorating and dessert sculptures. My husband set up a very simple website for me but other than that I really haven't done much marketing. I kind of rely on word of mouth. My husband & I were just invited to one of his co-workers son's 1st birthday party. I have met them on a previous occasion. Would it be tacky if I offered to make the birthday cake for her son. No payment of course, just a way to showcase my cakes. I just don't want to offend anyone. Any advice???? 
I think donating cakes is a great way to advertise ~ I wish you luck on your new venture 
I don't think it would be tacky to call them up and ask if they would be ok with you making the cake and donating it to them. I do the same thing sometimes!
Good Luck!
I don't think it would be tacky at all! She might really appreciate it!
It would not be tacky to offer, and most likely be a very welcomed and appreciated gesture.
No it wouldn't be tacky. You could explain that you're trying to develop your cake portfolio and as a gift to them you'd like to make their child's birthday cake if they don't already have plans for a cake.
Go for it! At least you've got a portfolio they can check so they know you're up to snuff. The worst they can say is that they already have someone (but who would turn down free cake?!).
BTW, I looked at your website and I LOVE those turkey cupcakes! What did you use for the cookie part? I am going to have to borrow that idea next fall if you don't mind...
I've found that people are MORE THAN WILLING to "help" when you want to get your cakes out there. They would rather help the little guy get started, than get another boring Costco sheet cake w/white cake and white buttercream. If she has email, send her a message. That way, if she wants to turn down the offer, she can think about it and turn it down politely. On the phone, she may feel put on the spot. I think it's a great idea. Good luck.
I don't think it would be tacky, but since it's a first birthday, I would want to make sure the mother is treated as you would any customer in allowing her to pick the design, etc. Second birthday, who cares. First birthday, she might want something specific.
I would ask if you could make it as a gift - but not ask to "donate" it.... you don't want to end up w/ people always expecting cakes as gifts or to get cakes for free!! But tell the mom or whomever that you love to make cakes and aren't really sure what to get the little boy and wondered if you could make the cake if they hadn't already ordered one. Then just make sure you don't go too elaborate for free.... do something better than the grocery store, but a little simple so people don't think you can just "whip up" an elaborate cake for free.
Good luck!
)
I offered once and it got me my first paid cake (from them!) I offered it as a 'gift' since I felt like I had owed them for something they had done for us. I told her she could totally say no and I would not be offended. She was actually very pleased! Now she is my best customer! You could offer and say that since you have recently resigned from your job and have really taken an interest in cake decorating and like an opportunity to practice that you would be delighted if they would let you do the cake as a gift. But tell them you would understand if they had already made arrangements for one. Send them a link to your website so they know you are up for the challenge!
Quote by @%username% on %date%
%body%