I am making a 12x18 cake iced in bc with writing and piped on flowers. I figured the cost for me to make it and its $46. The chain stores charge 40 for a full sheet cake. How do I charge more than them? If I charge the same amount I will lose money, I can't do this for free.

I was thinking $1 per serving, is that too much?

I am not exactly an expert cake decorator, but I am not a beginner either. I do good work, the person wanting the cake has seen and likes my work and the taste too.

agree a price beforehand, you cant compete with store cakes, if they want a hand made personal cake they will pay for it, x

Are you a chain store? Or are you a custom cake decorator? You should in no way feel obligated to price match with a grocery store.

It's hard to say without knowing your costs and area exactly what you should charge, but we start at $2.50 a serving for basic buttercream design. When you say $46, are you including material costs, paying yourself, and profit on the job?

If the person who wants the cake truly does appreciate your custom work, they will be willing to pay more than they would pay a grocery store. Don't be afraid to charge what you need to charge to make money on this cake.

You should always have the price figured out before you agree to anything. Some people just don't understand what work and time goes into creating a beautiful custom cake.