I do cakes via word of mouth from my home. (Yes I am allowed here I did my research). A lady that is an acquaintance called me last week and asked me to make her 20 cupcakes to be picked up today at 1:30pm. I just received a call at 3:15pm from her stating that it has been a hectic day and she has an appointment now and will be here 'sometime around 4:30' but will call if she is gonna be late.
I get these days do happen, but in the meantime I have 4 children and a husband that have had to sit here and patiently twiddle our fingers and wait for a pick up. Maybe I am being unreasonable about the situation and should expect this sort of thing to happen in the real world.
I think though that it would be different if it weren't an at home thing that I am juggling around my 'life' also. If these things annoy me so bad does it mean I am not cut out for selling cakes????

Twenty cupcakes probably didn't take you three hours to make, but then you've got to sit around waiting for three hours for your customer. It's reasonable for you to be annoyed, especially if you had other plans.

I would probably tell her, "I'm sorry, but I have an appointment (or whatever) at 4:30, but I should be back home by 7:00, so you're welcome to pick up anytime between 7 and 8 this evening."

I agree. The customer had a time that she decided would work for her, so she should be there to pick up the cup cakes. I think you should give her a time line and let her know your availability as well.

I think what is so frustrating is you really can't do much because if you stand your ground you are at risk of being out the money you put out for the order in the first place. I hate to risk that because we are not in a position to cover the cost most of the time.

I would be annoyed too. It is called respect. She should have respect for your time as you had respect for her having her cupcakes ready at 1:30. Yes, things do happen but she didn't call you for 2 hours. Then she still can't be there because she has an appointment? No, that is not right. She is now making your day hectic. (I get on a soapbox about these things!!! Can you tell. ha!!!)

And I forgot to say that I would tell her I had an appointment whether I did or not. She knows you're not running a storefront bakery, so she must know she's being inconsiderate...how many people really have no plans on a Friday evening?

I would watch to see what happens the next few times she places an order, and how much those orders are worth, money and timewise.

If it becomes a habit, then you will have to choose whether or not to address the situation, depending on how much value you put on her business.

Theresa

I am really seriously considering changing my policy on deposits that is for sure... Thank you all for being understanding.

The lady just called about half hour ago wanting me to meet her somewhere ...grrrr. I actually was sitting down to dinner so I declined,as if that was my only reason . She just picked them thank goodness.

luvbuttercream, you'll only let this happen once maybe twice before you make a stand. I had this happen too, and after that i said no more, now when they order i tell them it must be picked up between this time, and its a one hour window. If they want you to make their cakes they will come when you tell them. Just be firm.

Let's see, late fee, delivery charge, pita fee. $$$$$$$$

I would at the very least charge for your supplies when taking the order and balance due at pick up. At least you would not be out of the cost of the product if you decided to tell her to take a flying leap in the nearest mud hole.

First, you need to start getting a deposit before you even turn on your oven. For me, if the order is less than $100 the whole amount is due up front.

Second, I give clients a 1 -2 hour window to pick up their order and I specifically tell them "I have to leave at xxx time for an appointment so if you don't make it in that time frame you will not have your cake." I have never had anyone not show up or be late.