Do any of you allow the bride to give a final number of servings count after the contract is signed? I've had two brides now that want to wait until two weeks before the wedding to give me a final count based on their RSVPs. I wasn't sure if this was appropriate or not. I just know that I didn't expect that when my two daughter's got married.

When do you normally require it? I like to have my numbers locked in 3 weeks prior, but I know some RSVP's come in later than that. However, since I know that RSVP's don't work anyway, it makes no difference. Usually the difference is minimal (5 or 10 either direction) and doesn't make that much difference in what I'm baking. Plus they never have as many as they anticipate, so there's always plenty of food and cake.

If you are wanting a final number 4-6 weeks prior, then I don't see how they can do that for you, since they won't have all of their responses back yet.

I tell them I need a number at 3-weeks-prior. If they have any changes after that, we can discuss them. If it's possible, I will do it. I also tell them "If you want to add 5 or 6 people, don't call me. I don't care. 5 or 6 will not make a difference. You will have plenty."