Thanks everyone!
I guess these things could happen, but it isn't that common. I've never had a problem in 20 years of doing this. (Since I said that, it will happen tomorrow, right?? lol) I've been thinking of writing a general information sheet with policies, how to serve, etc.; so maybe I'll add a place for cake summary and a signature.

If anyone wants to share...I'd love to see what you use. I've looked at Earlines, but it isn't quite what I need.

Jenn123, you get orders by phone so does that mean you have a website and individuals can pick a cake from the site and call to order the "xyz cake"? Just curious since price can vary by design, size, etc.

Yes, I do. I give a general price per serving on the site for each design. They call and we discuss extras and what sizes will work for them. I get half my orders on the phone or email and the other half I go to their house. I take PayPal, check, cash, etc.

I get pretty much all my birthday cakes and such over the phone. But weddings, all of the brides I have encountered want to meet you first, and have a tasting. But I get a lot of small weddings, where the cake is the only desert, things like that..

I rarely have to make samples or meet the bride. I did 2 bridal shows this year so many of them have already had a sample. I have a good reputation and get lots of referrals. Besides...there just isn't a lot to choose from here.

I had a contract emailed to me...from someone here. If you would like to look at it...you are welcome to pm with your email address and I will send it to you.

I am glad everything turned out!!!

Good idea. I'll have to consider doing a few designs with a standard price, just for those couples on a budget.

One little thing I do with checks is I have the person make them out to "Cash" instead of to me. That way if it bounces, it bounces back on their account, not on mine.

Jenn123 - I've always cashed them at my bank, regardless of where it is written from. They just make it out to cash and I forgot to say, have the person sign the back of it. I've never had any problem with my bank taking it. I started doing the checks like that after being bounced on a few times.

Cash Only, No Exceptions. at this late date.

I require that equipment deposits & the cake must be paid in full 3 weeks before the event. Cash, money order and cashier check only accepted.

No personal checks, as bride may have closed her account and opened a new one under her new name.

OMG!!! I've learned so much by reading this thread thanks

Glad to know everything went fine tho. I'm going right now to create a contract of some sort to suit the needs in my area.

Lorris