How far ahead should you order a cake?
The question we get most often. The short answer: it depends on the occasion, but always earlier than you would think.
We are asked this several times a week, so it is worth writing down properly.
Minimum lead times
Wedding cake: one month. Not because it takes a month to make, but because wedding cakes usually involve a tasting, a conversation about shape and colour, and not infrequently a change of mind along the way.
Christening, corporate event: two weeks. These often involve larger numbers and a special request – lettering, a logo, several flavours in one cake.
Birthday, graduation, other occasions: five days.
When it is urgent
Sometimes someone needs a cake for tomorrow. We do not automatically say no – it depends on what is in the fridge and how full the order book is. But the choice is narrower and we cannot take on custom decoration.
More from us
Why a cream slice is best in the morning
Not a whim but physics: puff pastry loses its crispness within hours as it takes up moisture from the custard.
Seasonal fruit in the display case
Why we do not sell strawberry cake in December, and what goes in the case instead.
Allergens: what to know before you order
What we can and cannot take on, and why telling us in time matters.