I was talking to dh about some recent posts where someone had spent a number of hours designing a cake for a client only to have the client change their mind and go elsewhere for a cheaper cake. He said that at work they have recently instituted a design fee to eliminate a similar problem. If the project is quick and easy to design, no fee applies, however if you are custom designing a cake charge an upfront design fee, which will apply to the final cost of the cake, if they order. This ensures that you are paid for your time investment even if they decide to go with a "cheaper" cake.
I think it is a brilliant idea and thought I would share with everyone! 
Kathi
It sounds good in therory (SP) People here would say "its just a cake" why pay for the design? It would have to be done with all decorators across the board. And those that do cakes cheaply won't do that. But it is a good idea.
This is something I plan on implementing very soon. I do spend a lot of time drawing up my cakes....if you see my portfolio, you will see the hand-drawn image is usually identical to the finished product.
Usually my designs are my own, so why shouldn't I charge someone for my ideas?
I also paid a fortune for art school....they are getting an original drawing for a professional artist....what is to stop them from taking my design to another baker to copy?
I agree that the charge would be applied to the balance of the cake once the order is placed.
I absolutely agree!
The time spent in designing a cake is valuable, just as the time spent designing a wedding gown...they can't expect that to be done without charge! Then - if you're providing additionals such as cookie favors, petit fours, etc. they all have to match.
CC members appreciate the time and effort to create something suitable for someone's "special occasion" but the general public have no idea.
I think there should be a minimal fee after the consultation that is non-refundable to compensate for your time.
I think the design fee is generally a good idea, - it's used in other creative fields.
But I have a question...
Do you do a detailed sketch and show the final cake design before someone has paid a deposit and actually booked you to do their cake?
I don't think that I would - theoretically, either they like your cake and your style and portfolio and decide to go with you because of that, instead of "well, let's see what you can draw up for MY cake, then I'll see ..." ??
czyadgrl, I have had a few people ask me to design a cake for them. they already know it tastes good.
I designed a dress cake and spent three hours drawing, determing how to do each requested element, and then they cancelled and tried to describe it to another person to bake. Thankfully I had not given them a detailed sketch with my notes or the person might have made it. I didn't charge a design fee, but I wish I had! 
I have had numerous people ask me to design and show them a few ideas before they make a final choice. All but the "dress" order came to fruition, so it hasn't been a problem previously, but it is still my time. I'm at the point where if they want a custom cake, then they need to pay for it. I have a family that I could spend that time with, or CC friends to be with! 
doescakestoo, I know what you mean about people saying "it's just a cake", but I think it is up to us to educate our customers. If we don't try then they will continue to think that way. If they want "just a cake" they can go to Wal-Mart. If they are coming to us they must want something different and therefore should learn to pay for it appropriately. Of course this is just my opinion, but although I am not nearly as talented as many here, I am still providing a custom product and should be paid accordingly. Someday I'll be famous (at least in my dreams!) and no one will cringe about paying a design fee! 
Kathi
This is something I plan on implementing very soon. I do spend a lot of time drawing up my cakes....if you see my portfolio, you will see the hand-drawn image is usually identical to the finished product.
Usually my designs are my own, so why shouldn't I charge someone for my ideas?
I also paid a fortune for art school....they are getting an original drawing for a professional artist....what is to stop them from taking my design to another baker to copy?
I agree that the charge would be applied to the balance of the cake once the order is placed.
I guess I just wouldn't give them the design unless they had actually placed an order and included the non-refundable deposit. Even then, why would they WANT a picture of the cake design. I'd never let the sketch out of the room if they didn't place an order. Just tell them you'll keep it on file for 30 days if they decide to come back.
I'm curious if any of the "Pro's" get a design fee. Granted their rates are higher, but my time, your time, their time...all the same. sweetjane, You got me curious so I went to Duff's site. First of all his cakes start at $500.00. But other than that his FAQ page says this:
"If you are looking for a birthday or other special occasion cake, think about what would be fun, creative, and really say something about the person who you are getting the cake for. Does he or she play any sports? Musical instruments? Do they have a favorite artist? Do they like donkeys? Cars? Cheese? Anything you can possibly think of, we can make into a cake. Seriously. We love a challenge, so don't be shy! After you have an idea of what you'd like, give us a call/email with specifically what you have in mind and how many people you need to feed and we'll get you a price quote and/or start a contract for you."
"Design/Tasting appointments are held for wedding and larger cake orders only (over 75 people). There is a non-refundable $100 deposit required for tasting appointments, payable by Visa or Mastercard. If you place a cake order with us after the appointment, the $100 will be deducted from the cost of your cake."
According to Colette's website:
"Make a Colette cake part of your dream wedding or party.
First, you will have a one-on-one meeting with Colette who will sit down and discuss all of the details about your event, including your colors, flowers and maybe even details about your dress. Then, she will sketch a few design options for you to choose from. Each cake created is an original, designed specifically for you.
Colette and her talented staff make custom cakes for all occasions. And we will deliver anywhere, which is an extra charge. We offer a variety of flavors and fillings and all are made fresh, and never frozen.
We have a minimum order of $800, and usually at least a months notice is recommended."
Perhaps she includes the design fee in her base price of $800.00.
Kathi
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