Planning your next celebration involves mapping out everything you’ll need and estimating how much you want to spend. However, when you start getting quotes from vendors, you might find that your budget isn’t even close to what you’re being quoted. What gives? Why are the prices so far from your budget, and why does everything seem so expensive?

While I can’t make the prices of services cheaper, I can help inform you about how to set a realistic budget for your desserts. The tips here can also be applied to other services you are using for your celebration as well.

Let’s discuss the factors you should consider when planning your next party to help you set a realistic budget and avoid being caught off guard.

How Many Guests Are You Planning to Serve?

This is one of the biggest factors in determining how much dessert you’ll need. If you haven’t sent out invites yet, make a guest list so you have an idea of the maximum number of people—and don’t forget to include yourself and your family!

What Kind of Desserts Do You Want?

Do you want cake, cupcakes, or an entirely different dessert? These desserts come with different prices; sometimes they can be less expensive or more expensive based on the labor and ingredients needed to make them. Be sure to add extra cushion in your budget if you are considering specialty desserts like dessert shooters, fruit tarts, or donuts.

Do You Need Delivery or Set-Up of Your Desserts?

This is one of the most overlooked costs. Many clients don’t realize that delivery and set-up will be added to their total cost. While many bakers offer pick-up, delivery is an option and for many bakers, it is preferred for large, specialty orders and wedding cakes. This delivery fee ensures that your cake and desserts arrive in the best condition. If your baker has a set-up fee, it will also cover fixing anything that got a little messed up during transport. Consider your event and everything on your plate. Is delivery and set-up worth it for a stress-free day? If so, leave room in your budget for these services. You’ll thank yourself at the end of the party.

Does Your Dessert Set-Up Require the Rental of Decor?

If you need a cake stand, dessert stands, and other table decor, you’ll need to figure out where to get them if you don’t already have them. Consider asking your baker, planner (if you have one), or even your friends and family for platters and table decor. If you are getting them from a vendor, make sure to factor the cost into your budget.

Does Your Party Require Additional Services, Such as Someone to Cut Cake or Serve and Refill Desserts?

Cake-cutting prices can vary from $3.50 per slice to even $10 per slice. Now go ahead and multiply that by that guest list number you made earlier. If you are having a dessert table, check if your display or set-up will require a staff member to be present to refill and refresh the dessert table during the night.

Did You Remember to Add Tax?

Well did you? People often think that because it’s food, there is no tax. However, although food is involved, this is considered a service provided, so be sure to include tax in your budget.

Assessing your party needs and doing a little research to create a budget can be taxing. However, remember that you are making a budget so you can be realistic when looking for cake (and other vendors!) and be prepared for what your needs are and how someone can help you. It will be easier for you and your vendors to have a clear picture, and vendors can better assess how to help you! Happy planning! 🎉

Setting a Realistic Dessert Budget For Your Next Event