FAQ's For Bakers

How Do I Get Started?

We are immensely proud to be the first platform of it's kind for connecting home bakers with local customers. To get started on Cottage Cakes simply Sign Up as a Baker, and Create Your First Listing. Customers near your location will be able to find you using the platform search feature. You can set your own pickup or delivery options and delivery radius when creating an account. Here is a video tutorial on our YouTube page that walks you through creating your first listing.

What Fees are Baker's Charged?

There are never any signup or listing fees. We are also currently running a promotion for 0% commission for bakers until May 2025. After the trial Bakers will pay a 10% commission out of each sale. Your account will never be charged, and payments will only be taken out of your profit so there is no risk for using the platform.

How will I know if I got an order?

You will be notified via the email under your account when someone places an order. You will be able to communicate with the buyer directly on the platform for any additional details you may need to complete the order.

When Will I Get Paid?

The payout can be triggered in one of two ways when:

1. The buyer marks the order as received
2. The transaction automatically marks itself as completed 14 days after the provider marks the order as delivered (or shipped). *the money may take up to seven days to reach your bank account.

How Do I Get Paid?

Our Payout Processor is Stripe. Stripe is a secure payment platform used by millions of businesses of all sizes in the US. This account will never be charged, you will only receive payouts through the Stripe integration.

How Can I Ensure Success on the Platform?

As an early adopter, you will likely experience success as we will be heavily promoting the existing listings. In the meantime, you are welcome to share your listings with family, friends, and your existing clients to kickstart success and start generating reviews.

What Laws and Regulations Do I Need to Follow?

Each state has their own cottage food regulations, some very liberal and some very strict. Read our blog post on Cottage Food Laws. And here is a great resource to find the laws specific to your state.

How do I Cancel my Account?

Reach out to us at contact@cottagecakes.com if you wish to delete your account; however keep in mind you won't be able to retrieve your listings, reviews, or account information again. There is no cost or fee to have an account on the platform, and your account will never be charged, so you can also simply deactivate your listings to be able to return to the platform in the future.

FAQ's For Eaters

Cottage Cakes is an online marketplace connecting customers with local bakers offering a diverse range of baked goods, including pastries, gluten-free bread, birthday and wedding cakes, crackers, candies, Italian desserts, lavash bread, bagels, and various sweet treats.

Do you offer gluten-free bread and pastries?

Yes, Cottage Cakes features bakers who specialize in gluten-free bread and pastries. For instance, listings include gluten-free sourdough loaves and gluten-free/dairy-free artisan breads.

What types of birthday cakes and wedding cakes can I order?

You can order custom birthday and wedding cakes tailored to your preferences. Options include red velvet cakes with whipped buttercream and other flavors as per your request.

Can I find Italian desserts on Cottage Cakes?

Yes, Italian desserts such as baklava are available through Cottage Cakes.

Are there gluten-free desserts available?

Absolutely, Cottage Cakes offers a variety of gluten-free desserts, including cupcakes and sweet potato loaves.

What cake flavors are offered for custom cakes?

Custom cakes come in various flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, red velvet, chocolate chip, strawberry, and raspberry.

Do bakers provide lavash bread and crackers?

While specific listings for lavash bread and crackers are not detailed, Cottage Cakes encourages bakers to offer a wide range of baked goods. It's advisable to check current listings or contact bakers directly for these items.

Can I order bagels through the platform's bagel shop section?

Yes, you can find bagels among the offerings on Cottage Cakes. The platform connects you with local bakers who may provide bagels and other baked goods.

Do you have candies and other sweet treats available?

Yes, Cottage Cakes features a variety of sweet treats, including candies and specialty items like teapot cake pops.

How do I place an order for a custom cake tailored to my occasion and budget?

To order a custom cake, browse the listings on Cottage Cakes, select a baker whose offerings align with your needs, and contact them directly to discuss customization, pricing, and other details.

Can I request specific dietary accommodations like vegan or vegetarian options?

Yes, many bakers on Cottage Cakes accommodate dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, sugar-free, and egg-free options.

What varieties of pastries are available from local bakers?

Local bakers offer a wide range of pastries, including cupcakes, sweet potato loaves, macarons, and more.

How far in advance should I order a birthday or wedding cake?

It's recommended to place orders for birthday or wedding cakes at least 5 to 14 days in advance, depending on the baker's requirements.

Do you offer delivery or pickup options for orders?

Yes, bakers on Cottage Cakes offer delivery, pickup, and shipping options. Availability may vary, so it's best to confirm with the individual baker.

How can I connect with local bakers for special or bulk orders?

You can connect with local bakers by browsing listings on Cottage Cakes and contacting them directly through their profiles to discuss special or bulk orders.

Are there any Italian pastries or desserts available?

Yes, Italian pastries and desserts, such as baklava, are available through Cottage Cakes.

Can I find a variety of sweet treats for special occasions?

Certainly, Cottage Cakes offers a variety of sweet treats suitable for special occasions, including cupcakes, cake pops, and specialty loaves.

Do bakers offer crackers and other savory baked goods?

While specific listings for crackers are not detailed, Cottage Cakes encourages bakers to offer a wide range of baked goods. It's advisable to check current listings or contact bakers directly for these items.

How can I view reviews or ratings of the bakers?

Reviews and ratings can be viewed on the individual baker's profile page on Cottage Cakes, providing insights into their offerings and customer satisfaction.

What is the process for ordering gluten-free bakery items?

To order gluten-free bakery items, browse the listings on Cottage Cakes, filter for gluten-free options, and place an order directly with the baker, specifying any additional dietary requirements.

Are there seasonal cake flavors or desserts available?

Yes, many bakers offer seasonal cake flavors and desserts. It's best to check current listings or contact bakers directly to inquire about seasonal offerings.