Hi! What methods of payment do you all accept from your clients? Only cash or money orders? Personal checks? Credit cards? If credit cards, how do you do it - via pay pal?

Just wondering! I have my first order coming up and I'm not sure what to do, since I haven't gotten the legalities done yet (it might not be till the fall). Thanks!

p.s. And how do you (if at all) report occasional cakes on your taxes? As "tips" or something? That's the only way I can think to do it.

I accept checks or cash. I do not have a way to take credit cards...but no one has complained. For birthday cakes, baby showers, etc.(small orders) I do not require a deposit. I usually take orders on the phone and the customer pays me when I deliver the cake. However, on wedding cakes I do get a deposit. Then usually the week before the wedding...I will collect the balance. As for my taxes...I have an accountant that does everything for me! Hope that helps!
traci

Well, I am in Canada, so our tax reporting methods are different. But may I make one suggestion, I personally refrain from taking personal cheques except in the case when it is a deposit for a wedding cake, several weeks in advance and I have time to make certain that the cheque clears. If I know the person really well, I will take a personal cheque, otherwise I only accept cashier's cheques, money orders or cash. I cannot tell you how many stories I have read about folks getting stiffed for a cheque that bounced. I seem to remember Cali4Dawn also being wary of accepting cheques. It may make it a bit of a bother, but folks can stop off at a bank and make a cash withdrawal, there are lots of money machines around.
Hugs Squirrelly Cakes