Do you sell cakes covered in buttercream and get to decide if you cover one layer or two with fondant? Like if someone shows you a sample , do you pricw it with buttercream in mind?
I am in the phase of not charging enough. Losing money or barely breaking even. People think you should charge less because you aren’t a bakery. But most of the time we have to pay more for ingredients because we aren’t buying in bulk.
That’s right, you are not a bakery, you are a baker who gets to charge her worth! My motto is, “if someone else wants to do all the work and not get paid, that’s on them”. Charge your worth 🥰 Sorry to jump in. I can’t help myself 🙈
I’ll add that I live in rural Texas near the Mexican border. My base price is $5 per serving for a simple iced cake without decor and I get it. I have a cake order for an 8” round, no decor for $75 this weekend. I do specialty cakes, my client base is in a town of less than 1700 people. Im not super busy, it’s just the area we live, it’s slim pickins’ out here but I still charge what I feel is fair. Im a little gem in the middle of nowhere lol.
I'm In Canada and I had the same problem starting out, I only charged for cost and not my time, big mistake, if you set a price for your cakes and someone doesn't think your worth it, then they are not the right customer for you, the right people will pay your price.
This is soooo helpful! I wish customers would research also before insulting us bakers with an offer like $50-$100 for a very detailed cake! Thank you for the confidence to charge what I should for my cakes 🎂 🤗
You’ve been a professional cake decorator for over 20. You have a lot of repeat business so that tells me that customers are comfortable with your pricing. Having a cake made by you is priceless, in my opinion. You’re the best!!!
Thank you so much. I gave up on selling cakes because pricing was so discouraging. You may have just given me the information and courage I need to try again!
The customers that haggle or complain about the prices are exactly the customers that will find something wrong with your creation. Run, don’t walk away from these guys! People who are willing to pay what you are worth appreciate your time and your craftsmanship.
That’s not true your just choosing to cater to rich people. I’m a nurse but I surely don’t have 300 plus to pay for a birthday cake. I started making my own. Plus Amazon has almost everything pre made thag you can think of. It’s like me saying “I charge 2k for my purebred dogs to ensure they go to good homes.” When the person who would have paid 800 is more active, family oriented and loving. Money is the root of all evil, and your choosing to only appease the ones with money. All so you can get rich! Which tells me, all you care about is money. Same with these Breeders. They don’t care where their dogs end up, they just want the money!
@@aubsarg0222I get what you’re saying but if u cant afford the prices what is the baker supposed to do? Lower their prices & lose money? Making cakes etc is how people make their money and if they keep accommodating to people who cant afford their creations they’re gonna run out of business eventually, unpaid bills etc and that isnt fair. Thats why its suggested to go to people or a business thats in ur budget! Its nothing wrong with that
I'm not sure I've ever seen someone share such detailed pricing of their cakes so THANK YOU for being so open and honest and sharing - this helps much more than you can ever imagine ... God bless you Karolyn for sharing this priceless information.
I always hate pricing my cakes. This was very helpful. I love to give people options because people have budget. I love your advice on not lowering your price. I had to learn this the hard way.
I had a conversation with myself several years ago about my cake prices. If I didn't update them, then I was performing a public service and I didn't have the salary to be giving cake away to the public. You are spot on Karolyn. I've been at this professionally for over 12 years, hobby for over 30 years and I still learn something new by watching your videos. Keep up the good work and don't let the negativity wear you down. You got this! Keep letting your light shine! Thanks for all the great videos. Donna Tokazowski, Cake Hatteras W.V. On a side note, I've got a running spread sheet I update monthly with the cost of materials. Butter and Eggs in my area are up over 20%.It's time to update my cake prices again. I was lucky a month ago to find butter on sale at Aldi's for $1.47 per pound! I bought a case and didn't want to be selfish and buy more. I should have done it! Lol!
Thanks for this, Karolyn. I played along and paused the video to guess the price for each cake and I was right on the money on most of them, which, to me, means that you're right on the money. I also have a $200 minimum and I know not everyone where I live will pay my prices, but then not everyone is my customer base, and that's totally cool. I appreciate your courage in being so transparent and I appreciate all you share with us.
So glad I ran across you today.. I am not charging enough and sometimes it makes me not want to do some of the things I love to do creatively because of pricing. I LOVE your comparison to going to their job and asking them to work at a reduced rate... lol I'm excited to follow you.. :-) Thanks again!
Thank YOU... I'm so glad this is a NEW video... because the prices of EVERYTHING has gone up in the last 6 months. WOW... Thank YOU for taking the time to make this great video...
What I was trying to say... is I totally understand why you need and have to charge what you charge... especially since prices have gone up SOOOO much in the last 8 months... Again, THANK You so much for taking the time to explain in this video. Do you have a video on DONUTS or CUPCAKES? I am in the process of moving back to Albuquerque, New Mexico (US) to RE-Open my Acting Studio... and to also do Dinner Theatre... of course I'll have to have my Restaurant Licence again... I will be making and selling Cupcakes and Donuts to help raise money for the Acting Studio... It's been a while since I had my restaurant... and things are so different... I used to cook EVERYTHING from Scratch... hope I can do that again too...
I love this. Your cakes are so beautiful, they don't require all the extras or intensive decorating to make them visibly pleasing. Your customers could choose the least expensive or the most expensive and still wow their guests with it. Sometimes less is more when it comes to art anyway, and your cakes are definitely a work of art.
I have searched for a video like this for some time. Seems like everyone is afraid to put prices out there, but you have no idea how helpful this has been. I'm currently in the process of pricing a 10" rainbow buttercream, rosette cake with inedible cake toppers. I was having such a hard time, but this video definitely helped. Always a pleasure! HAPPY NEW YEAR!🥰
I'm only typing this once, I am Maggie and I live in a rrrrurrral are LOL just kidding. I live out in the sticks, aka the country. We country folk don't get that much for our cakes. My skill level is improving daily (thanks to your awesome videos). As my skill level has improved my prices have gone up. I think I'm well priced. I get some, "wow that's a lot of money" even some. "hmmm you think an awful lot of your cakes". Which I reply with, 'well, actually I do. That's probably because I put an awful lot of work into them". But for the most part people don't flinch to much. Thanks for another awesome video! Love and hugs from one of your biggest fans. :)
There's too many R's!! 😂😂 Someone actually told you that you think an awful lot about your cakes?! That's a great reply though! Good that you kept your composure.
Thanks Karolyn for this video. The hardest thing I’ve found is when your skill level increases over the years, to be able to raise your price to match your skill. Bit like an apprentice wages increase. I’ve only been making cakes for 3 years but have developed a lot more skills and put a lot more time into my cakes. Also now with all the price increases of daily expenses etc to raise the price again. I have learnt to stick to my prices, and as you say there are always so many cakes to make. If people try to haggle me down in price I now feel they don’t appreciate the time and work I put in. I’d rather say no to them and another customer will come along who is happy to pay and I feel appreciated. Love your videos and thanks again 🙏🏼😊🍰
Yes! The energy that goes into a cake where someone undercuts you is not good. They aren't fun to make and you don't put your heart into it. And, in turn, they don't end up being the best we can do. It's hard to demand a certain price at first. But if you believe you're worth it and are confident in your pricing, people will pick up on that energy from you. It's funny how it works!
I love this video, thank you! I recently just raised my prices a bit and was so proud but I am still way undercharging for the amount of work it takes. I love the different ranges you gave. I would love to know how you come up with your prices for each type of cake
Oh my goodness, I just LOVE you to bits! Thank you SO much for sharing this ♡ it's just what I needed to hear and something I am constantly working on. Appreciate you bunches xoxo
Thank you for this video, very nicely said. Not everyone appreciates a home baker. There are a lot of hours going into making flowers, figurines etc, but people don't understand that.
Hey there! I have JUST got to finally sit down and watch some of your vides after months of waiting for a break in my schedule!! Yay!! I am told time and time again from a friend that works at a cake supply company how under charged I am with my cakes!! I live in California and feel that I shouldn't charge that much because i work from home. BUT I am slowly learning how to price things and like you, always go over board because I LOVE decorating! I am going to keep watching and hope I can 1 day gain enough confidence with the price dance, and charge my worth-thank you for ALL the sharing you do, it really helps me out!! If you ever want to help me price my cakes, I would pay to have a 1 on 1 zoom meeting!! Food for thought!
I think your prices are spot on!! Pricing is not easy even after years of doing it, because yes everything changes. You are definitely advanced/ a pro and can charge alot/your worth and you should. Alot of people do not realize, you do it all! Take the orders, bake, decorate, clean, etc you know!!! Thank you for sharing this!!!👏👏👏💖💖💖💖
What a great tutorial to reference on pricing. I love how you showed the different levels of difficulty for each cake size. Every cake you showed was so beautifully decorated. Thank you for sharing and keep on caking 💜
Thank you so much for this video!!! While I live in NC and in the big city of Raleigh, lol, your persoective and tips will help me in pricong my cakes/cupcakes. I have truly struggled in that area and I'm sure I ambreaking even and possibly losing. Thanks again!!!
I so loved this video on what you charge for your cakes. Having a minimum price is a great idea also. I also love that you offer the customer 3 different prices based on the detail of the cakes. That’s a great idea too. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was SO helpful. Do customers ever give you a hard time about price? I always have anxiety about when I get the “wow” & I (in my opinion) undercharge
@@KarolynsKakes I agree. I had someone ask me for a wedding cake to feed 140 people and I quoted her $300 and she never replied. I get that some people are just trying to see what a cake will cost because they usually have no idea.
$300 for a wedding cake to feed 140 is a bargain! Some people don’t value the time it takes to create a bespoke cake. I only charge £15 (around $20) per hour for my time and for a wedding cake with sugar paste flowers which I make myself that can easily be 30 hours work with all the baking, icing, smoothing! Jeez, getting fondant and buttercream to a specific colour can take hours! But some people are clueless and compare our prices to wallmart. I say go and buy a dry flavourless cake if you don’t value quality 😂❤
If you’re getting turned down for all of them, you may be pricing them too high. Location is a big part of pricing too! Try adding $25-$50 to each quote and see what happens.
Thank you. I learn so much. There are times I give a lower price for people that I personally know but at times thinking back I know that my labor was not properly compensated. I still have a lot to learn based on pricing specially in my area where there are a lot of homebakers who price too low just to get a sale.
People will only price low to get the sale a few times...until they realize after subtracting the cost of ingredients / supplies, they realize they just worked 8 hours for $40!
Right now I charge about $50 minimum for a cake 😶🌫️ But I feel like it's appropriate because I am a beginner and I'm just starting. Once I get more cake orders and improve my work I will start charging more most definitely! I started my business a little less than a year ago (Feb 2022) so I still have a long way to go!
Fabulous video. I tend to absorb information visually so I really appreciate seeing an actual photo of the cakes while you're breaking everything down. Great job🙂
Love your channel! I've learned so much from you! Thank you so much for sharing this! Very well worded. Your pricing strategies make perfect sense. Giving options is definitely the way to go. This has helped me tremendously in getting orders. It helps to explain to clients that the work you put into their cake is worth it.
I definitely undercharge HOWEVER I’ve only gotten 2 years of experience under my belt but my skill level seems like I’ve been doing it long but for 20 years experience these prices make great sense !!!! Your value is worth it for sure !! Your my favorite cake lady you do amazing work and amazing tutorials I hope you never stop 💪🏽
I started making cakes when my daughter was a baby (she's 42 now) and soon my mom's friends (they were all teachers) were asking me to make cakes. I worked full-time & would stay up late making cakes on the side & I was charging very cheap prices - like $30 & would still get those comments like "Oh, I could go to Winn-Dixie & get it cheaper". Uggh, I couldn't stomach the business side of cake making. So, I just kept it as a hobby & would make them for my friends when I felt like it & didn't charge. I make cakes for my granddaughter now & sometimes for friends - but they are a labor of love. People have no idea how much work they are! I'm still obsessed with cakes though & live vicariously through your cake business, lol.
OMG that is the worst when people say that. Okay then, how about you go to Winn Dixie and I can relax and not lose money on your order?! 😂😂 I've had former customers contact me when they made their first cake and tell me how they never realized how much work they are! So people really don't understand until they try.
First time watching your channel. Great info. Thank you for helping take away the mystery 👀 of the pricing of baked goods. Nobody wants to give real world prices. Much appreciated 👍🏽
Hi Karolyn, thank u for sharing these video. I currently just adjusted my pricing and im so glad my pricing is not too far from what u said. Im from washington state and planning to open up my bakery this year and working on it. Im so thankful. New sub here and will check all ur videos. Im learning from u. God bless.
I watch your wonderful channel for ideas when I want to bake something and I find it interesting to watch how much work and planning goes into a great cake. For me, you are all artists who happen to make edible art. And that comes at a price. Don't undervalue yourselves by giving your art away. I'll bet those that complain the loudest are the ones who got the biggest discounts... routinely. You're worth every penny you charge.
You’re definitely right this is a challenging part of being a cake decorator. Sometimes our customers think our prices are great and some will think that were too expensive because they have no idea what really goes into making a custom cake. I wanted to ask you, I noticed sometimes you mentioned that your tiers are three layers, are some of your tiers only two layers? The ingredients, sometimes I think people don’t realize how much butter has went up. That’s a very expensive part of a cake as far as making butter cup icing. And by the way you are an awesome cake decorator I love watching your videos
Thank you Angela! OMG the eggs I get used to be $8 for 90 and now they are $32!! It's insane. Here's the video where I talk about doing different sizes and heights for your cakes: ruclips.net/video/KiX9tQP9im8/видео.html
I just love everything about this lady. She's so sweet and that outro ,come on subscribe people!!!!!!!! How hard is it? I can't understand why she's still got this much subbies. She deserves millions ❤️
Omg! You are undercharging for those fabulous cakes! I’ve paid for cakes less elaborated way more money! Please charge more 😊 That corset cake with all the buckle details needs to be at least $1200. It is amazing!!!
This one was so helpful, really. Everyone around keeps talking about adding cost of time into pricing, and this is obvious. But no one gives even a hint of real prices and labor costs.
@@KarolynsKakes yes thank you. I wonder how you estimate time for decoration. Your cakes are so detailed, so many rolling-cutting work. I guess every certain piece doesn't take much time, but making dozens of them must be time-consuming.
I tell people my cakes are between $5 - $20 per serving. The smaller cakes actually end up being on the higher per-serving end, and the bigger cakes are less per serving. I don't really tell people that their cake is $10 per serving. I just charge the price. I feel like it's easier for me because it's less time that I have to figure out how much to charge. I really charge what I feel like I want to! And I know that really isn't helpful. But I get a number in mind and think...yeah, this cake is worth $425.
I love watching cake decorating videos and this just popped up in my recommended, and I was so excited bc I know you irl 🤣 Idk if you remember me but I used to work at DD and you made my birthday cake one year, I wanna say it was around 2014. It was so freaking good! I have pics somewhere. Anyway I'm really happy to see that you're still doing cakes and doing youtube as well 💖 You've always been a really sweet person and deserve all the success in the world! 🥰
@@KarolynsKakes I am really interested in any kind of cake decorating!! I'm new to caking so really anything that pertains to that!! Thanks for responding!!
Thank you so much! I get so stressed out when it comes to providing prices to customers. I definitely do not charge enough. I still make a profit, but not what I am worth. Thank you again for the guidance and info! Your work looks amazing too!
So when your brand new just starting out, do you let them know that right off the bat? I made a three tier cake (my first multi tier) and most people said “you made that I didn’t know you did Cakes” and I got a lot of positive feedback. Although it was not perfect and exactly how I wanted it but it was nice. And I made it for my best friends reception as my part of contribution to helping with the reception. It probably cost me $80-$90 because I didn’t have cake pans for a three tier cake and tools that I needed but now I do. I love your channel out of all the channels I’ve watched I feel I am getting the most education and information out of your channel.
I don't think it's necessary to tell people that! However, if they want to order a design that you never did, I would be honest and let them know this is the first time you're trying this and to let them know that you'll do your best. 😊
Hi, great video I am from a rural my prices are a bit lower . Do you have a base price for just the cake itself? How do you feel about that? Thanks deb K.
Thank you for this. I never new how much to charge. One cake I made was 8 cakes plus a water fall that really worked. Stairways with Dolls that I painted to match the gowns that the bridesmaids dresses. I only charged $150.00
That sounds like a lot of work! If you add up the cost of ingredients and supplies and subtract that from the price, you get the total profit for the cake. Then divide that by how many hours it took you to see how much you got paid per hour. Once you realize that, you'll never undercharge like that again! You deserve to be paid for your time and expertise! 💜
Great video! Can I ask- how many layers do you typically do for each tier. I have been going with 3 but Ive been to weddings where each tier are only 2 layers. My layers are about 1 1/2 inches each but I’ve seen cakes with much thicker layers that have only 2 layers. Is there a standard or is it just personal preference?
Hi so I know for sure she likes to have 4 layers with 3 layers of fillings. She tortes 2 cakes giving her 4 layers. I personally love 2 or 3 fillings bc I feel like one filling/ 2 layer cake doesn’t look good.
Merime is right! I typically do 2 layers for each tier and torte them so I have 4 layers of cake with 3 layers of icing. When I have cakes that are larger than 10", I don't like to torte them because they get difficult to handle. So I will usually do 3 non-torted layers for those. Here's a video where I explain it! ruclips.net/video/KiX9tQP9im8/видео.html
Thank you again for always sharing such great advise. I’m just starting out and been making 6in cakes but I’ve been trying to set a min price and not go lower than that, but like what another viewer commented, some people think I shouldn’t charge so much because I’m not a professional yet or that I don’t have an actual bakery yet 😩😭 Seeing your examples of decorated cakes definitely help to get an idea of price ranges. Thank you for sharing!
When people say that you can't charge because you don't have a bakery....that's complete B.S.! Find a minimum price that you're comfortable with and stick to that. You'll be so happy that you did! It sets boundaries.
If you're baking for their money, you ARE a professional. If they don't appreciate it, they aren't your customer. Walmart prices for boutique cakes is what we call wanting "champagne on a beer budget."
What price range would you suggest fora 2 layer 12" round white cake with strawberry sauce between layers,all covered with homemade.Ermine frosting topped with.real flowers that only cost $5.00 ? No detailing on cake except scallops on top and bottom
Thanks for your video, I am agree with what you said about pricing been the hardest part when some want you to make a cake, some times that part stop me to keep making cakes because I do not know how to deal with a costumer who want a wonderful detail cake but do not want to pay what is worth it 🥲. Thanks again for sharing all Your knowledge 🙏🏼👍🏻😊
Greetings Karolyn ---- just happened to come upon your video --- as a seasoned cake maker for people I found this quite interesting :) --- my question for you though is : have you put in the use of your oven ( because electricity is not cheap) into the price ??? --- I do and have had no problem with my customers at all ---- have a great day ---- Ann
Wow! Thanks for the video. Im definitely not charging enough. I’ve also been known to say that part about going to their job and not paying them enough to do work. It can be so frustrating sometimes.
Thanks you for this video. It helps alot! I'm gonna raise my prices soon and I hope you don't mind me screenshoting I'd like to post your prices for examples, so my customers can see how much they are underpaying. I'll definitely tag you. I charge half of what you charge. And as you know cakes take hours to make. I bring home after costs about $40-70 dollars. Thank you so much Karolyn
$40 -$70 profit after how many hours of work?! The people ordering these from you would never work for that little and they shouldn't expect you to do that either!
Edible lace video please!!! Also your simple 3 tier option the buttercream looks like it has a sheen to it…. How’d you do that?? You’re the best! I feel like I’m undercharging because I’m outside of a major city (Detroit) but I’m still new and learning. I’m slowly going up tho
I'll film the lace the next time I make it! I think it's just the picture, there isn't a sheen on that cake. However, if you want to add a pearl sheen, you can use a spray like this: amzn.to/3RxnQRI
It took me a couple years before I priced my cakes correctly. Most of us charge nothing at first, usually just to get the business, only finding out that you end up paying them! Lol
Thank you! I don't charge per decoration. I kind of figure out how long I think it will take me to decorate the cake and base the price off of that. I know that really isn't much help though! There are a lot of videos on YT where people talk about pricing by a more specific calculation, you may want to check out one of those. 😊
If you enjoy my tutorials, I'd be so grateful if you'd Buy Me A Coffee! ☕🙏
www.buymeacoffee.com/KarolynsKakes
Do you sell cakes covered in buttercream and get to decide if you cover one layer or two with fondant? Like if someone shows you a sample , do you pricw it with buttercream in mind?
I am in the phase of not charging enough. Losing money or barely breaking even. People think you should charge less because you aren’t a bakery. But most of the time we have to pay more for ingredients because we aren’t buying in bulk.
That’s right, you are not a bakery, you are a baker who gets to charge her worth! My motto is, “if someone else wants to do all the work and not get paid, that’s on them”. Charge your worth 🥰
Sorry to jump in. I can’t help myself 🙈
Me too
I’ll add that I live in rural Texas near the Mexican border. My base price is $5 per serving for a simple iced cake without decor and I get it. I have a cake order for an 8” round, no decor for $75 this weekend. I do specialty cakes, my client base is in a town of less than 1700 people. Im not super busy, it’s just the area we live, it’s slim pickins’ out here but I still charge what I feel is fair. Im a little gem in the middle of nowhere lol.
I'm In Canada and I had the same problem starting out, I only charged for cost and not my time, big mistake, if you set a price for your cakes and someone doesn't think your worth it, then they are not the right customer for you, the right people will pay your price.
Agree
This is soooo helpful! I wish customers would research also before insulting us bakers with an offer like $50-$100 for a very detailed cake! Thank you for the confidence to charge what I should for my cakes 🎂 🤗
Right?! Custom cakes aren't supermarket cakes!
They can always bake their own.
Sometimes this part of the cake business is even more challenging than decorating itself! Thanks for another great video
Definitely!
You’ve been a professional cake decorator for over 20. You have a lot of repeat business so that tells me that customers are comfortable with your pricing. Having a cake made by you is priceless, in my opinion. You’re the best!!!
You are the sweetest, thank you honey! 💜🙏
a lot of that has to do with consistency and quality.
Thank you so much. I gave up on selling cakes because pricing was so discouraging. You may have just given me the information and courage I need to try again!
In business this is called market research and supply and demand. You need to do research in your area more than anything
I want you to know how much I value your time & experience that you share on top of doing your orders! Thank you!!!
Emilyyyyyyyy! OMG thank you SO much! You are so generous, I appreciate you!!💜🙏
The customers that haggle or complain about the prices are exactly the customers that will find something wrong with your creation. Run, don’t walk away from these guys! People who are willing to pay what you are worth appreciate your time and your craftsmanship.
Yes! That’s who I prefer to work with!
That’s not true your just choosing to cater to rich people. I’m a nurse but I surely don’t have 300 plus to pay for a birthday cake.
I started making my own. Plus Amazon has almost everything pre made thag you can think of.
It’s like me saying “I charge 2k for my purebred dogs to ensure they go to good homes.” When the person who would have paid 800 is more active, family oriented and loving. Money is the root of all evil, and your choosing to only appease the ones with money. All so you can get rich! Which tells me, all you care about is money. Same with these Breeders. They don’t care where their dogs end up, they just want the money!
@@aubsarg0222I get what you’re saying but if u cant afford the prices what is the baker supposed to do? Lower their prices & lose money? Making cakes etc is how people make their money and if they keep accommodating to people who cant afford their creations they’re gonna run out of business eventually, unpaid bills etc and that isnt fair. Thats why its suggested to go to people or a business thats in ur budget! Its nothing wrong with that
I'm not sure I've ever seen someone share such detailed pricing of their cakes so THANK YOU for being so open and honest and sharing - this helps much more than you can ever imagine ... God bless you Karolyn for sharing this priceless information.
You're welcome Natalie! 🙌🙏
I always hate pricing my cakes. This was very helpful. I love to give people options because people have budget. I love your advice on not lowering your price. I had to learn this the hard way.
I had a conversation with myself several years ago about my cake prices. If I didn't update them, then I was performing a public service and I didn't have the salary to be giving cake away to the public. You are spot on Karolyn. I've been at this professionally for over 12 years, hobby for over 30 years and I still learn something new by watching your videos. Keep up the good work and don't let the negativity wear you down. You got this! Keep letting your light shine! Thanks for all the great videos. Donna Tokazowski, Cake Hatteras W.V.
On a side note, I've got a running spread sheet I update monthly with the cost of materials. Butter and Eggs in my area are up over 20%.It's time to update my cake prices again. I was lucky a month ago to find butter on sale at Aldi's for $1.47 per pound! I bought a case and didn't want to be selfish and buy more. I should have done it! Lol!
Thanks for this, Karolyn. I played along and paused the video to guess the price for each cake and I was right on the money on most of them, which, to me, means that you're right on the money. I also have a $200 minimum and I know not everyone where I live will pay my prices, but then not everyone is my customer base, and that's totally cool. I appreciate your courage in being so transparent and I appreciate all you share with us.
That's exactly right! Not everyone is meant for us, that's why there is variety LOL
I practically spent my entire day off glued to your channel! I am soooo subscribed! Love your videos and your spirit! Thank you!
Yay! Thank you! 😊🎉
Thanks! Valuable information! You're appreciated!
Sherri!! You are so generous, I can't thank you enough for this! 💜🙏
@@KarolynsKakes you are too😊
So glad I ran across you today.. I am not charging enough and sometimes it makes me not want to do some of the things I love to do creatively because of pricing. I LOVE your comparison to going to their job and asking them to work at a reduced rate... lol I'm excited to follow you.. :-) Thanks again!
You're welcome Terry! It's so true though. No one wants to work for peanuts!
Thank YOU...
I'm so glad this is a NEW video... because the prices of EVERYTHING has gone up in the last 6 months. WOW...
Thank YOU for taking the time to make this great video...
What I was trying to say... is I totally understand why you need and have to charge what you charge... especially since prices have gone up SOOOO much in the last 8 months...
Again, THANK You so much for taking the time to explain in this video.
Do you have a video on DONUTS or CUPCAKES?
I am in the process of moving back to Albuquerque, New Mexico (US) to RE-Open my Acting Studio... and to also do Dinner Theatre... of course I'll have to have my Restaurant Licence again... I will be making and selling Cupcakes and Donuts to help raise money for the Acting Studio...
It's been a while since I had my restaurant... and things are so different... I used to cook EVERYTHING from Scratch... hope I can do that again too...
Great tip on offering options!
I love this. Your cakes are so beautiful, they don't require all the extras or intensive decorating to make them visibly pleasing. Your customers could choose the least expensive or the most expensive and still wow their guests with it. Sometimes less is more when it comes to art anyway, and your cakes are definitely a work of art.
Thanks! Appreciate you for sharing this info. It reaffirms what I've been doing.
Melodye! OMG thank you honey, I'm so grateful for this! And I'm so glad it helped you 💜🙏
I have searched for a video like this for some time. Seems like everyone is afraid to put prices out there, but you have no idea how helpful this has been. I'm currently in the process of pricing a 10" rainbow buttercream, rosette cake with inedible cake toppers. I was having such a hard time, but this video definitely helped. Always a pleasure! HAPPY NEW YEAR!🥰
Jessica! I'm glad it helped 😊💜🙌
@@KarolynsKakes ❤️❤️
I'm only typing this once, I am Maggie and I live in a rrrrurrral are LOL just kidding. I live out in the sticks, aka the country. We country folk don't get that much for our cakes. My skill level is improving daily (thanks to your awesome videos). As my skill level has improved my prices have gone up. I think I'm well priced. I get some, "wow that's a lot of money" even some. "hmmm you think an awful lot of your cakes". Which I reply with, 'well, actually I do. That's probably because I put an awful lot of work into them". But for the most part people don't flinch to much.
Thanks for another awesome video! Love and hugs from one of your biggest fans. :)
There's too many R's!! 😂😂
Someone actually told you that you think an awful lot about your cakes?! That's a great reply though! Good that you kept your composure.
Thanks Karolyn for this video. The hardest thing I’ve found is when your skill level increases over the years, to be able to raise your price to match your skill. Bit like an apprentice wages increase. I’ve only been making cakes for 3 years but have developed a lot more skills and put a lot more time into my cakes. Also now with all the price increases of daily expenses etc to raise the price again. I have learnt to stick to my prices, and as you say there are always so many cakes to make. If people try to haggle me down in price I now feel they don’t appreciate the time and work I put in. I’d rather say no to them and another customer will come along who is happy to pay and I feel appreciated. Love your videos and thanks again 🙏🏼😊🍰
Yes! The energy that goes into a cake where someone undercuts you is not good. They aren't fun to make and you don't put your heart into it. And, in turn, they don't end up being the best we can do. It's hard to demand a certain price at first. But if you believe you're worth it and are confident in your pricing, people will pick up on that energy from you. It's funny how it works!
I love this video, thank you! I recently just raised my prices a bit and was so proud but I am still way undercharging for the amount of work it takes. I love the different ranges you gave. I would love to know how you come up with your prices for each type of cake
Oh my goodness, I just LOVE you to bits!
Thank you SO much for sharing this ♡ it's just what I needed to hear and something I am constantly working on.
Appreciate you bunches xoxo
Glad it was helpful! 😊💜
Omg thank u soooo much for great info ❤️
Thank you! This helps put things into perspective on the customer side of things as I am shopping for our wedding cake.
Thank you for this video, very nicely said. Not everyone appreciates a home baker. There are a lot of hours going into making flowers, figurines etc, but people don't understand that.
Hey there! I have JUST got to finally sit down and watch some of your vides after months of waiting for a break in my schedule!! Yay!! I am told time and time again from a friend that works at a cake supply company how under charged I am with my cakes!! I live in California and feel that I shouldn't charge that much because i work from home. BUT I am slowly learning how to price things and like you, always go over board because I LOVE decorating! I am going to keep watching and hope I can 1 day gain enough confidence with the price dance, and charge my worth-thank you for ALL the sharing you do, it really helps me out!! If you ever want to help me price my cakes, I would pay to have a 1 on 1 zoom meeting!! Food for thought!
I think your prices are spot on!! Pricing is not easy even after years of doing it, because yes everything changes. You are definitely advanced/ a pro and can charge alot/your worth and you should. Alot of people do not realize, you do it all! Take the orders, bake, decorate, clean, etc you know!!! Thank you for sharing this!!!👏👏👏💖💖💖💖
Thank you love! And you're right, it's also all that stuff you mentioned!
What a great tutorial to reference on pricing. I love how you showed the different levels of difficulty for each cake size. Every cake you showed was so beautifully decorated. Thank you for sharing and keep on caking 💜
Thank you love! 😊💜
Thank you so much for this video!!! While I live in NC and in the big city of Raleigh, lol, your persoective and tips will help me in pricong my cakes/cupcakes. I have truly struggled in that area and I'm sure I ambreaking even and possibly losing. Thanks again!!!
You’re welcome Angela! No one wants to work for free. You deserve to be paid fairly for your time! 💜🙏🏼
I so loved this video on what you charge for your cakes. Having a minimum price is a great idea also. I also love that you offer the customer 3 different prices based on the detail of the cakes. That’s a great idea too. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
People really appreciate having options!
Thanks!
Debra! OMG girl, you're the best. Thank you so much!!💜🙏
This was SO helpful. Do customers ever give you a hard time about price? I always have anxiety about when I get the “wow” & I (in my opinion) undercharge
They don't necessarily give me a hard time, they will just either not reply or say they went with another baker.
@@KarolynsKakes I agree. I had someone ask me for a wedding cake to feed 140 people and I quoted her $300 and she never replied. I get that some people are just trying to see what a cake will cost because they usually have no idea.
I got an order for a three teir wedding cake and they didn't want to pay over a 100$
$300 for a wedding cake to feed 140 is a bargain! Some people don’t value the time it takes to create a bespoke cake. I only charge £15 (around $20) per hour for my time and for a wedding cake with sugar paste flowers which I make myself that can easily be 30 hours work with all the baking, icing, smoothing! Jeez, getting fondant and buttercream to a specific colour can take hours! But some people are clueless and compare our prices to wallmart. I say go and buy a dry flavourless cake if you don’t value quality 😂❤
Pretty cakes!
Thanks for your time sharing/advising.
Thanks for this video Karolyn, Latetly I have no cake orders, because I started pricing them the right way
If you’re getting turned down for all of them, you may be pricing them too high. Location is a big part of pricing too! Try adding $25-$50 to each quote and see what happens.
Karolyn, thanks so much. I recently did a cake and boldly charged what I thought it was worth and you are so right... I was HAPPY. 😁
Yes!! 🙌🏼🙌🏼
Thank you. I learn so much. There are times I give a lower price for people that I personally know but at times thinking back I know that my labor was not properly compensated. I still have a lot to learn based on pricing specially in my area where there are a lot of homebakers who price too low just to get a sale.
People will only price low to get the sale a few times...until they realize after subtracting the cost of ingredients / supplies, they realize they just worked 8 hours for $40!
I'm loving the way you bake and the way make it easier for me to understand baking ❤
This is wonderful, I'm so glad you're picking it up! It's great to find someone to explain it in a way that clicks 🙌
Right now I charge about $50 minimum for a cake 😶🌫️ But I feel like it's appropriate because I am a beginner and I'm just starting. Once I get more cake orders and improve my work I will start charging more most definitely! I started my business a little less than a year ago (Feb 2022) so I still have a long way to go!
I did the same when I first started. Keep learning and improving and slowly increase as you go along! 💜🙏
I really appreciate you sharing your prices because sometimes I really struggle with it. I just subscribed to your channel 😊😊Thank you for sharing
Thanks for subbing! I'm glad it helped you 😊🙌
Thank you for this. Again your channel has been helping me so much even with my cookies prices.
You’re welcome Kim! I’m happy to help ☺️
Fabulous video. I tend to absorb information visually so I really appreciate seeing an actual photo of the cakes while you're breaking everything down. Great job🙂
Love your channel! I've learned so much from you! Thank you so much for sharing this! Very well worded. Your pricing strategies make perfect sense. Giving options is definitely the way to go. This has helped me tremendously in getting orders. It helps to explain to clients that the work you put into their cake is worth it.
Yesss!! Giving options is the way to go. 🙌🏼
I definitely undercharge HOWEVER I’ve only gotten 2 years of experience under my belt but my skill level seems like I’ve been doing it long but for 20 years experience these prices make great sense !!!! Your value is worth it for sure !! Your my favorite cake lady you do amazing work and amazing tutorials I hope you never stop 💪🏽
Anqeshia! Thank you so much my dear, I appreciate you! 😊🙏
Beautiful work Karolyn, thanks for doing this video
I loved her personality! 💝
I started making cakes when my daughter was a baby (she's 42 now) and soon my mom's friends (they were all teachers) were asking me to make cakes. I worked full-time & would stay up late making cakes on the side & I was charging very cheap prices - like $30 & would still get those comments like "Oh, I could go to Winn-Dixie & get it cheaper". Uggh, I couldn't stomach the business side of cake making. So, I just kept it as a hobby & would make them for my friends when I felt like it & didn't charge. I make cakes for my granddaughter now & sometimes for friends - but they are a labor of love. People have no idea how much work they are! I'm still obsessed with cakes though & live vicariously through your cake business, lol.
OMG that is the worst when people say that. Okay then, how about you go to Winn Dixie and I can relax and not lose money on your order?! 😂😂 I've had former customers contact me when they made their first cake and tell me how they never realized how much work they are! So people really don't understand until they try.
Outstanding video. The information was invaluable. Thank you!!
Glad it was helpful! 😊
First time watching your channel. Great info. Thank you for helping take away the mystery 👀 of the pricing of baked goods. Nobody wants to give real world prices. Much appreciated 👍🏽
Hi Karolyn, thank u for sharing these video. I currently just adjusted my pricing and im so glad my pricing is not too far from what u said. Im from washington state and planning to open up my bakery this year and working on it. Im so thankful. New sub here and will check all ur videos. Im learning from u. God bless.
This makes me so happy! We shouldn't be working for peanuts, cakes are a labor of love and take a long time to complete!
I just started making cakes not long ago, and I’ve learned so so much from you. 🙌🏼
I love this!! 💜🙏
I watch your wonderful channel for ideas when I want to bake something and I find it interesting to watch how much work and planning goes into a great cake. For me, you are all artists who happen to make edible art. And that comes at a price. Don't undervalue yourselves by giving your art away. I'll bet those that complain the loudest are the ones who got the biggest discounts... routinely. You're worth every penny you charge.
I love this, thank you!!
Another winning video with excellent sound advice!!
You’re definitely right this is a challenging part of being a cake decorator. Sometimes our customers think our prices are great and some will think that were too expensive because they have no idea what really goes into making a custom cake. I wanted to ask you, I noticed sometimes you mentioned that your tiers are three layers, are some of your tiers only two layers? The ingredients, sometimes I think people don’t realize how much butter has went up. That’s a very expensive part of a cake as far as making butter cup icing. And by the way you are an awesome cake decorator I love watching your videos
Thank you Angela! OMG the eggs I get used to be $8 for 90 and now they are $32!! It's insane.
Here's the video where I talk about doing different sizes and heights for your cakes:
ruclips.net/video/KiX9tQP9im8/видео.html
Thank you so much! 😊 Your videos are always very helpful ❤️
I just love everything about this lady. She's so sweet and that outro ,come on subscribe people!!!!!!!! How hard is it? I can't understand why she's still got this much subbies. She deserves millions ❤️
You're the sweetest, thank you love! 💜🙏
@@KarolynsKakes ❤️
Omg! You are undercharging for those fabulous cakes! I’ve paid for cakes less elaborated way more money! Please charge more 😊 That corset cake with all the buckle details needs to be at least $1200. It is amazing!!!
Thank you honey! ☺️☺️
Great video! Thanks for the encouragement and pricing ideas.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for your examples , gives me more confidence in pricing!!
Glad to hear that, that's my intention by sharing this information!😊🙌
This one was so helpful, really. Everyone around keeps talking about adding cost of time into pricing, and this is obvious. But no one gives even a hint of real prices and labor costs.
Glad it helped you out!
@@KarolynsKakes yes thank you. I wonder how you estimate time for decoration. Your cakes are so detailed, so many rolling-cutting work. I guess every certain piece doesn't take much time, but making dozens of them must be time-consuming.
Thanks for the video
That’s interesting so how much do you charge per slice? I’m genuinely curious bc this might be easier.
I tell people my cakes are between $5 - $20 per serving. The smaller cakes actually end up being on the higher per-serving end, and the bigger cakes are less per serving. I don't really tell people that their cake is $10 per serving. I just charge the price. I feel like it's easier for me because it's less time that I have to figure out how much to charge. I really charge what I feel like I want to! And I know that really isn't helpful. But I get a number in mind and think...yeah, this cake is worth $425.
@@KarolynsKakes Thank you for the information
I love watching cake decorating videos and this just popped up in my recommended, and I was so excited bc I know you irl 🤣 Idk if you remember me but I used to work at DD and you made my birthday cake one year, I wanna say it was around 2014. It was so freaking good! I have pics somewhere. Anyway I'm really happy to see that you're still doing cakes and doing youtube as well 💖 You've always been a really sweet person and deserve all the success in the world! 🥰
Awww thank you honey!! 🥰🥰
Thank you soo much!! I really have learned so much from your channel!! Do you offer any cake decorating classes online??!
Karen! You're welcome dear! I am starting to work on the online courses.
Can I ask, what would you want to learn if you took an online class?
@@KarolynsKakes I am really interested in any kind of cake decorating!! I'm new to caking so really anything that pertains to that!! Thanks for responding!!
Thank you so much! I get so stressed out when it comes to providing prices to customers. I definitely do not charge enough. I still make a profit, but not what I am worth. Thank you again for the guidance and info! Your work looks amazing too!
You’re welcome honey! 😊
So when your brand new just starting out, do you let them know that right off the bat? I made a three tier cake (my first multi tier) and most people said “you made that I didn’t know you did Cakes” and I got a lot of positive feedback. Although it was not perfect and exactly how I wanted it but it was nice. And I made it for my best friends reception as my part of contribution to helping with the reception. It probably cost me $80-$90 because I didn’t have cake pans for a three tier cake and tools that I needed but now I do. I love your channel out of all the channels I’ve watched I feel I am getting the most education and information out of your channel.
I don't think it's necessary to tell people that! However, if they want to order a design that you never did, I would be honest and let them know this is the first time you're trying this and to let them know that you'll do your best. 😊
Awesome video!!! I really appreciate all that you share!!! 😀
Hi, great video I am from a rural my prices are a bit lower . Do you have a base price for just the cake itself? How do you feel about that? Thanks deb K.
Thank you for this. I never new how much to charge. One cake I made was 8 cakes plus a water fall that really worked. Stairways with
Dolls that I painted to match the gowns that the bridesmaids dresses. I only charged $150.00
That sounds like a lot of work! If you add up the cost of ingredients and supplies and subtract that from the price, you get the total profit for the cake. Then divide that by how many hours it took you to see how much you got paid per hour. Once you realize that, you'll never undercharge like that again! You deserve to be paid for your time and expertise! 💜
I just love, love your style & cake designs! The info you give is so helpful❤
Great video! Can I ask- how many layers do you typically do for each tier. I have been going with 3 but Ive been to weddings where each tier are only 2 layers. My layers are about 1 1/2 inches each but I’ve seen cakes with much thicker layers that have only 2 layers. Is there a standard or is it just personal preference?
Hi so I know for sure she likes to have 4 layers with 3 layers of fillings. She tortes 2 cakes giving her 4 layers. I personally love 2 or 3 fillings bc I feel like one filling/ 2 layer cake doesn’t look good.
Merime is right! I typically do 2 layers for each tier and torte them so I have 4 layers of cake with 3 layers of icing. When I have cakes that are larger than 10", I don't like to torte them because they get difficult to handle. So I will usually do 3 non-torted layers for those.
Here's a video where I explain it!
ruclips.net/video/KiX9tQP9im8/видео.html
Thanks💓🙏🏻love this examples. U r the first person NOT afraid to give prices. U r soooo right in everything u said ! Your cakes are beautiful💯💓💓💓🥰
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you again for always sharing such great advise. I’m just starting out and been making 6in cakes but I’ve been trying to set a min price and not go lower than that, but like what another viewer commented, some people think I shouldn’t charge so much because I’m not a professional yet or that I don’t have an actual bakery yet 😩😭
Seeing your examples of decorated cakes definitely help to get an idea of price ranges. Thank you for sharing!
When people say that you can't charge because you don't have a bakery....that's complete B.S.!
Find a minimum price that you're comfortable with and stick to that. You'll be so happy that you did! It sets boundaries.
If you're baking for their money, you ARE a professional. If they don't appreciate it, they aren't your customer. Walmart prices for boutique cakes is what we call wanting "champagne on a beer budget."
Thank you so much for this detailed explanation on cake pricing. It was very informative. 😊🙏🏽
Glad it was helpful!
What price range would you suggest fora 2 layer 12" round white cake with strawberry sauce between layers,all covered with homemade.Ermine frosting topped with.real flowers that only cost $5.00 ? No detailing on cake except scallops on top and bottom
Thanks for sharing this with us, Karolyn!
That is ao Awesome of you!! Karolyn is worth it!!
You are so welcome!
Thank you my dear! 💜
Thanks for your video, I am agree with what you said about pricing been the hardest part when some want you to make a cake, some times that part stop me to keep making cakes because I do not know how to deal with a costumer who want a wonderful detail cake but do not want to pay what is worth it 🥲. Thanks again for sharing all
Your knowledge 🙏🏼👍🏻😊
Omg, your cakes are so beautiful! I wish I had half your talent! Truly amazing!
Thank you honey!!😊🙌
That back to school theme cake is so cute 😍
Thank you love! It was one of my faves! 🥰
Love your videos! Thanks so much for all your suggestions and expertise!
You're welcome, Cathi! Glad you like them!
Greetings Karolyn ---- just happened to come upon your video --- as a seasoned cake maker for people I found this quite interesting :) --- my question for you though is : have you put in the use of your oven ( because electricity is not cheap) into the price ??? --- I do and have had no problem with my customers at all ---- have a great day ---- Ann
Wow! Thanks for the video. Im definitely not charging enough. I’ve also been known to say that part about going to their job and not paying them enough to do work. It can be so frustrating sometimes.
Glad it was helpful! It really does get frustrating!
Thanks, I don't do cakes. You are helping me consider important things for selling my hustle.
I'm glad it's helping you!
Thanks you for this video. It helps alot! I'm gonna raise my prices soon and I hope you don't mind me screenshoting I'd like to post your prices for examples, so my customers can see how much they are underpaying. I'll definitely tag you. I charge half of what you charge. And as you know cakes take hours to make. I bring home after costs about $40-70 dollars.
Thank you so much
Karolyn
$40 -$70 profit after how many hours of work?! The people ordering these from you would never work for that little and they shouldn't expect you to do that either!
Omg, this has opened my eyes, I really don't charge enough. I'm in Canada . Wow. Thanks for sharing this
Glad it was helpful!
Great advice , pricing is the hardest part I always struggle...ty
Glad it was helpful!
This is very informative. I have gotten some great ideas about pricing.
Glad it was helpful!
Edible lace video please!!!
Also your simple 3 tier option the buttercream looks like it has a sheen to it…. How’d you do that??
You’re the best! I feel like I’m undercharging because I’m outside of a major city (Detroit) but I’m still new and learning. I’m slowly going up tho
I'll film the lace the next time I make it!
I think it's just the picture, there isn't a sheen on that cake.
However, if you want to add a pearl sheen, you can use a spray like this:
amzn.to/3RxnQRI
You are amazing! Thank you for the tips,help me a lot!
You’re welcome honey!
Do u have a video on sizes and how many servings?
I always have a hard time with pricing. Trying to make sure I’m charging the right price. Thanks for explaining
Hi do you make your cakes from scratch or you use box cake mix.
My decorated cakes are doctored mix recipes. My signature pound cakes are scratch cakes. So I do both!
So what would a tuxedo or groom cake would be for 6” with fondant
I just came across your videos… Love them. I do the same with the prizes. Great videos!!!
Awesome! Thank you! 🎉😊
Hi Karolyn
How can tint fondant gold without using edible, go spray all paint? Can you help?
Thank you for that information much needed that.
Glad it was helpful!
It took me a couple years before I priced my cakes correctly. Most of us charge nothing at first, usually just to get the business, only finding out that you end up paying them! Lol
YUP!! We start by working for hours and losing money. And then we are like...F that! 😂😂
Hello gorgeous,wow!!! Thank you very much for this wonderful information i really appreciate it,sending you Blessings🙏💕
You're welcome honey!😊🙌
THANK YOU VERY MUCH! I really love this video! THANK YOU for all your advice and sugestiones! 💐
Glad it was helpful!😊🙌
Beautiful work. I'm wondering if you start with a base price per size and add up for decorations? How do you end up with your prices? Thanks
Thank you! I don't charge per decoration. I kind of figure out how long I think it will take me to decorate the cake and base the price off of that. I know that really isn't much help though! There are a lot of videos on YT where people talk about pricing by a more specific calculation, you may want to check out one of those. 😊
Thank you very helpful and yes you do feel mad when you don’t charge enough or someone acts like you are charging too much