Definitely make sure in the future all your cakes are paid for in advance. Then you won't be out of money and time. Once they have paid then they are obligated to come and pick up their cake because they paid for it.
Hi, sorry to hear about that but you might want to start using the SPS system. Which Leah S. swears by and other cakers too. It will eliminate the movement of the cake. Don't quit it has happen to all of us.