SusieCakes is a California-based bakery that makes custom wedding cakes
SusieCakes is a small bakery chain based in Southern California that takes custom wedding cake orders. The bakery is known for buttercream frosting and hand-decorated designs rather than fondant. They operate physical locations in California and also ship cakes to other states, though shipping adds cost and limits design complexity for cakes that travel.
The bakery does not publish a standard price list online. Wedding cake pricing depends on the number of servings, design complexity, flavor choices, and delivery location. You contact SusieCakes directly through their website or by phone to discuss your vision and receive a custom quote.
SusieCakes cakes are made to order only — they do not stock wedding cakes ahead of time. This means you need to place your order weeks in advance, typically at least four to six weeks before your wedding date, though earlier is better during busy seasons.
Key Takeaways
- SusieCakes quotes each wedding cake individually based on size, design, and flavors, so you must contact them directly for pricing rather than finding a set menu online.
- The bakery operates in California with physical locations, but they ship cakes nationwide — though shipping costs extra and may limit design options.
- You need to order at least four to six weeks ahead, and earlier during spring and summer wedding seasons.
- SusieCakes uses buttercream frosting and hand-piped decorations, which creates a different look and texture than fondant-covered cakes from other bakeries.
How to request a quote from SusieCakes
Start by visiting the SusieCakes website and looking for their wedding cake inquiry form or contact information. Most bakeries that do custom work ask you to fill out a form or call directly rather than offering when ready pricing online.
When you contact them, have ready: your wedding date, the number of guests you expect to serve, any flavor preferences, and a description or images of the style you want. If you are ordering from outside California, mention your location so they can tell you whether they ship to your area and what the additional cost would be.
SusieCakes will provide a quote based on your specifications. The quote typically includes the cake itself, delivery to your venue (if local), and any design work. If you are having the cake shipped, shipping costs are usually separate and depend on the distance and cake size.
What affects the price of a SusieCakes wedding cake
The main cost drivers are the number of servings and the complexity of the design. A straightforward two-tier cake for 50 people costs less than a four-tier cake for 150 people with custom hand-piped details. Specialty flavors or fillings beyond their standard menu may also increase the price.
Delivery location matters too. If your wedding is at a venue near one of their California locations, delivery is usually included or costs less. Shipping to another state adds a significant amount because the cake must be packed carefully and transported by courier to arrive fresh.
Timing can also affect pricing. Ordering during peak wedding season (spring and summer) may have longer lead times or rush fees if you need the cake sooner than their standard timeline.
Buttercream versus fondant: what makes SusieCakes different
SusieCakes specializes in buttercream frosting, which is made from butter, sugar, and cream. Buttercream has a softer texture, a richer taste, and a less polished appearance than fondant. The frosting shows brushstrokes and hand-piping work, which gives the cake a more rustic or artisanal look.
Many larger bakeries use fondant, a smooth sugar paste that covers the cake like a shell. Fondant creates a flawless, sculpted appearance and holds up better in heat, but it has a different texture and taste — some people find it too sweet or prefer the flavor of buttercream.
If you want a cake that looks hand-decorated and tastes like traditional frosting, SusieCakes' buttercream approach fits that preference. If you want a perfectly smooth, modern look, you may want to compare with bakeries that specialize in fondant work.
Delivery and timing for your wedding date
SusieCakes delivers locally within their service area in California. For local deliveries, the bakery typically handles setup at your venue, which means they arrive before the reception to place the cake on the table and make any final adjustments.
For orders outside California, the cake ships via overnight or two-day courier. Shipped cakes arrive the day before or morning of your wedding. You or your venue coordinator will need to be available to receive the delivery and refrigerate the cake until serving time. Shipped cakes are usually simpler in design because they need to survive transport without damage.
Because SusieCakes makes cakes to order, you must book well in advance. During slower months, four to six weeks may be enough notice. During peak season, aim for two to three months ahead to find your date and allow time for design consultations.
Comparing SusieCakes to other wedding cake options
SusieCakes is one choice among many. Other California bakeries offer similar custom buttercream cakes, while national bakeries like Goldbelly ship cakes nationwide. Grocery store bakeries offer lower-cost options but with less customization. High-end pastry chefs may charge more but offer elaborate designs and premium ingredients.
The main trade-off with SusieCakes is that you pay for hand-decorated buttercream work and a small-bakery approach, which costs more than a grocery store cake but may cost less than a high-end pastry chef. If you value the buttercream taste and artisanal look, it may be worth the price. If you want the lowest cost or the smoothest fondant finish, another bakery might be a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a SusieCakes wedding cake if I live outside California?
Yes, SusieCakes ships cakes to other states via overnight courier. Shipping costs extra and the cake design is usually simpler than local orders because it must survive transport. Contact them to confirm they ship to your location and to get a shipping quote.
What flavors does SusieCakes offer for wedding cakes?
SusieCakes has standard flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and lemon, but the full menu and custom flavor options are best discussed directly with the bakery when you request a quote. They may offer seasonal or specialty flavors depending on availability.
How far in advance do I need to order?
Plan to order at least four to six weeks ahead. During spring and summer, when many weddings happen, book earlier — two to three months is safer to may provide your date and allow time for design planning.
Does SusieCakes deliver to the venue, or do I pick up the cake?
For local California orders, SusieCakes typically delivers to your venue. For shipped orders outside California, the cake arrives via courier and you or your venue coordinator receives it. Confirm delivery details when you get your quote.
What is the difference between buttercream and fondant?
Buttercream is made from butter and sugar, tastes richer, and shows hand-piping work. Fondant is a smooth sugar paste that creates a flawless finish but has a different texture and taste. SusieCakes uses buttercream, which gives a more rustic, decorated appearance.