Even though I have given my business cards out to a few bridal shops, did a display of two wedding cakes in one shop, I haven't heard from any customers yet. A few days ago I subscribed to a free website from Vistaprint too. I was wondering if its worth advertising in the local magazine. There is a magazine that comes out monthly which is not free (therefore people have to be subscribed to it), so I don't know how many readers buy it. I phoned them and got a price. I telephoned also a local newspaper which gets published weekly but its more expensive. Don't know what to do. Looks like I have to spend money. Don't know how much customers I can potentially get with local mags.

As someone here said recently, "You need a website. Without a website you don't exist."

don't do the newspaper. Its a waste of money. Website Website Website- sink your moola there and then get the web address in the phonebook when you can. Take your time and design a nice one, like Leahs said, you aren't legit until people can look you over before they call!

Agreed, don't waste your money on the newspaper. Agreed, get a website.

My website was offline for a day and people were calling to ask me if I had gone out of business.

I agree that a website is vital but how do you get people to know about your website?

I have a website running (set it up over the weekend). The business cards which I have given already to bridal shops etc have my other contact details including my mobile phone and personal e-mail. if they were interested, they would contact me and i'd send my web address.

Flyers, facebook..
Join with a few others in the wedding business and do a girls night where they can taste your cakes
Maybe you can get a deal if you pay for an add in the magazine that they do a piece about you in an upcoming edition?
Charity cakes can also be good - just make sure your name is displayed in a suttle and tasteful way....

Flyers, Facebook, Twitter all have been good to me. Bridal shows or any other type of show to get exposure is good.

Don't waste your time on charity cakes, they only lead to more charity cake work. Once you start doing that everybody will want it for free. If you want to give away something use your flyers. Give them an incentive for coming by. FREE cupcake or something. Once they're in the door you can sell them the whole cake.

Also try networking with caterers, jewelry stores, photographers, etc. Anybody who is in the wedding industry. They can put your name up on their shop.