Do I need an appointment at Specialty Cakes & More?

Yes, you will need to call ahead (515) 986-4630 and schedule an appointment. Before you schedule however, ask if there is an opening for your wedding date. If there is, we will set up a time to get together. Workdays as well as evenings and weekends are okay.

How much cake will I need?

The answer to this depends on whom you invite, where they are from and what you are serving. Family tends to turn out in greater numbers than friends do. Logically, long distance guests have less likelihood of attending. If you are serving a full meal and cake is the dessert, you will need less cake. If cake, punch and mints are all you are serving, you will need more.

Remember that one invitation equals two people invited minimum. Many say you can count on about 80% attending who are invited. Some say to multiply the number of people invited by two-thirds. Analyze your guest list and pick the most appropriate computation for you.

What is the delivery area served?

We will deliver within approximately a 30-mile radius of Des Moines proper--as far north as Ames, south as Osceola, west as Casey and east as Newton. There is no delivery fee for orders over $200 in the greater Des Moines area and its suburbs. Outside this area, a .33 per mile fee will be assessed computed from origination to destination point roundtrip.

What determines the cost per serving of the cake?

Cost is determined by three major things:

1. Type of icing used on cake, meaning traditional buttercream icing or rolled fondant (see below).
2. Complexity of design chosen.
3. Use of fillings in the cake

Other things that affect the cost of the cake include specialty hardware for the tier set-up, use of fountain, cake stands and any special equipment needed to do the job.

How does rolled fondant differ from traditional buttercream?

Rolled fondant is a seamless sugarpaste covering on the cake that provides a smooth, elegant look. It is more commonly used in Europe but is gaining popularity in this country. Rolled fondant is available in the sugarpaste variety (pure white), dark chocolate or a white chocolate. Rolled fondant differs from traditional buttercream because of its texture and cost. A rolled fondant cake is approximately 70-75% higher in cost but many people feel the look is well worth it.

What are the terms of having my cake done by Specialty Cakes & More?

A contract is signed by both parties that stipulates:

You must put one third of the total cost of your order down to secure your wedding date. This is non-refundable.

You must pay the amount in full two weeks before the wedding.