I got asked to do a baby shower cake for a babyshower this Saturday at our church. It is for a baby boy. She wants to pay me, but because we were at the Church on the Sabbath there wasn't any way I was going to discuss price.
That's all the counsel she gave me. When I asked about flavor, she said she doesn't care. She said, "I could do the cake but it wouldn't be as pretty." 
This is also my first cake in this new town that we just moved to. AHHHH! I don't even know the baby's name!
So, now I'm trying to balance price & an impressive design. What would you do?
Rachel
I would say that you must contact this client immediately and tell her that you need more specific information before you can set a price. Explain to the client that, because if the short time frame, she must tell you know so you can buy adequate supplies.
Theresa 
Give her a call during the week and talk money and size. Also ask if she has purchased napkins, decorations or invitations. If she has, use that as a starting point. Also ask if she is is thinking traditional pastels or funky brights. Ask the baby's name.
Whenever I do cakes for brethren in my bible study class, I just ask them what color and flavor they prefer and how many are we feeding. Then I ask if I can do whatever I want (answer is always yes 
) and when they insist on paying me, I tell them that whatever money they would give to me to put in the Lord's service in some way, whether in a witnessing fund or for humanitarian services, it's up to them. Many want to pay me directly but I tell them that God gave me a gift and this is my way of sharing it with the brethren. But this is just a personal rule I'm comfortable with. You'll find your way. Good luck!
She did tell me that they are expecting 30-40 but it's kind of an open invitation to all the women in the church, so it could be more or less. I'm planning on 50 servings just to cover my bases.
Rachel
Be sure to ask her what her budget is first. That way you can figure out what you are willing to make that will fit in that price range (if anything).
DOn't let your plans get grander than her budget, you know what I mean? : )
Best wishes,
I am absolutely delighted when someone lets me have free reign over what I do for their cake and use it as an opportunity to show off and have some fun. Enjoy this opportunity!
Okay I talked to the woman throwing the babyshower. I am excited that I get to do whatever I want, just want to make sure that I can still profit off this cake even a little.
We went to a dollar a slice, and I made it clear that this is a discount due to it being for a church function and that she is not to tell anyone my price. She agreed to that.
I've decided on a lemon cake with lemon curd and blackberry preserve fillings and iced in SMBC. I'll do a baby theme to the cake and go from there.
I'm really nervous but excited about doing this cake! Wish me luck!
Rachel
I just want to offer a caution about using SMBC since you are making the cake for a pregnant woman. Granted the risk of salmonella contamination of eggs is very low there is still that risk and children, the elderly and pregnant women are high risk categories. You can use eggs that have been pasturized to eliminate the risk or take a look at this:
http://www.ochef.com/728.htm
It is a way to get egg whites to a safe temp and still be able to use them.
Can't wait to see the final cake!
Thanks for the warning! I am always extremely careful with that, what I'm doing is using pasturized egg whites, which is all I ever use! Thank you for the link though!
Rachel
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