Had a bridal consult today and sketched out a really cool art deco design that the bride loved, she was so excited about it and i guess I kind of got wrapped up in her excitement. When she asked if she could have a copy of the design to show her fiance I made her one. Don't know why I did it, I know better! She left with an unsigned contract because she had another consult this afternoon and I was her first cake asting. Now I'm paranoid that she is shopping around my custom design. Uhg! How could I be so stupid!
Sad thing is, even if you had signed it the other baker would still probably do it. Not something I would ever do--I feel there needs to be integrity amongst cake artist, but I do find it happening more often that I would like
Agreed, it is unfortunate but it becoming more common. I have had brides get a quote from me, call around and then call me back with a quote from another place and ask me to beat it.. I always say, sorry but my prices are non-negotiable. I am already reasonably priced in my market and I refuse to intentionally undercut another caker just to get business. I'd ratther be able to feel good about myself & my business practices.
I went through that- fortunately for me they came back and booked. Now I have a tasting guidline letter that goes out, and one of the guidelines that this is a cake tasting only, and only minimal design ideas will be discussed for pricing quote purposes. I even say "do not expect to leave the tasting with a sketch in-hand, as this will be accomplished once you are booked with us."
Hopefully they will appreciate how creative you are and they will come back to you!
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