I rarely do wedding cakes because they stress me out so much.   I agreed to do one for my mother's best friend's daughter and got a call today, (3 days before wedding) saying they don't need the cake.  I guess they've had an argument and cancelled the whole thing.  This was a three tiered cake to feed 150. I'm going to give her the money back because she's a close friend of the family, but it made me realize I need to come up with some kind of policy on this. Anybody want to share theirs?  I'm especially interested in the time frame of  how long they have to cancel.  Thanks in advance!

Sure.  25% down, to hold the date, non-refundable for any reason.

Remainder due 3 weeks prior, non-refundable for any reason.

And I really do mean ANY reason.

You think the venue, caterer or florist is giving these people any money back.  Let me answer that, "no."

Being a friend should not mean they take advantage of you.

I do 50% when the conract is signed and the balance due 30 days prior to the due date.  Both are non-refundable.  For each week payment is late, it's a $25 charge.  If it is not paid for 2 weeks before the wedding, the order is canceled.  I haven't had any issues with cancelations, yet

........ 25% down, to hold the date, non-refundable for any reason. Remainder due 3 weeks prior, non-refundable for any reason.   And I really do mean ANY reason...............

I basically agree w/this except for one reason and only one.  That is a death in the *immeadate family*.

And that does NOT include Aunt Sue, cousin James or anyone other than bride, groom, mothers or dads.

I once had a groom die something like 5 days before wedding.  So I gave them back all but the down payment.

$100.00 to hold the date and the rest 30 days before the event.  None refundable once paid.  I might for a death in the immediate family-but if it was already baked I might not refund the total remaining balance.  Haven't had to deal with that, but would consider giving back a great percentage.