Custom cake being decorated at Auntie Lu's Bakery

How It Works

Your Cake, Your Way

From first inquiry to the moment your cake arrives — here's everything you need to know about ordering with us.

Simple & Sweet

6 Steps to Your Dream Cake

We've made the ordering process as smooth as our buttercream. Here's how it works from start to finish.

01

Reach Out

Contact us via our website form, email, or phone. Share the basics — your event date, type, guest count, and any initial ideas. We respond within 24 hours.

02

Free Consultation

We'll schedule a 30-minute consultation (in-person or virtual) to discuss your vision, flavors, design, and budget. Bring inspiration photos — Pinterest boards welcome!

03

Tasting Session

For custom cakes $200+, enjoy a complimentary tasting of up to 4 flavors with frosting and filling pairings. Tastings are by appointment only.

04

Design & Quote

We'll create a detailed proposal with your design sketch, flavor selections, size, and itemized pricing. Revisions are welcome until you're 100% happy.

05

Secure Your Date

Once you approve the design, a 50% deposit secures your event date on our calendar. We accept all major credit cards, Venmo, and Zelle.

06

Delivery or Pickup

We'll bake your cake fresh and deliver it to your venue or have it ready for pickup. Final balance is due 7 days before your event.

Plan Ahead

When to Order

We bake everything fresh to order. Here's how much lead time each type of order typically needs.

Order TypeLead TimeNotes
Wedding Cakes4–8 weeksBook early — peak wedding season (May–October) fills up fast
Birthday & Celebration Cakes1–2 weeksRush orders may be available for an additional fee
Quinceañera Cakes3–6 weeksComplex designs and large tiered cakes need extra time
Cupcakes & Cake Pops5–7 daysLarge quantities (100+) require 2 weeks notice
Corporate Events1–3 weeksDepends on quantity and customization level
Holiday Orders2–4 weeksThanksgiving and Christmas orders should be placed by early November

The Consultation

What to Expect

Your free consultation is a relaxed, no-pressure conversation about your dream cake. Here's what we'll cover:

Share Your Vision

Bring photos, color swatches, or Pinterest boards. Tell us about your event theme, venue, and any special elements you want incorporated.

Flavor Discussion

We'll walk through our full flavor menu and help you find combinations that match your taste. Each tier can be a different flavor.

Design Possibilities

From elegant minimalist to elaborate multi-tier showpieces — we'll discuss what's possible and sketch initial ideas together.

Budget Planning

We'll provide transparent pricing and work within your budget. We always find creative solutions to deliver a beautiful cake at your price point.

Cake consultation at Auntie Lu's Bakery

Transparent Pricing

Deposits & Payments

50% Deposit

A 50% deposit is required to secure your date and begin work on your order. This is non-refundable but transferable to a new date with 14+ days notice.

Final Balance

The remaining 50% is due 7 days before your event. We'll send a reminder with a secure payment link. Any design changes must be finalized at this time.

Payment Methods

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, Venmo, Zelle, and cash. For corporate orders, we can also accept purchase orders and invoicing.

Cake delivery and setup by Auntie Lu's team

Getting Your Cake

Delivery & Pickup

Free Pickup

Pick up your cake from our San Diego kitchen at no extra charge. We'll have it boxed, chilled, and ready at your scheduled time. We'll provide handling and storage instructions.

Local Delivery

We deliver throughout San Diego County. Delivery fees start at $25 and vary by distance. For tiered and wedding cakes, we personally deliver, set up, and style on-site.

Venue Setup

For wedding and event cakes, our team handles delivery, assembly, and styling at your venue. We coordinate directly with your venue's event coordinator for a seamless setup.

Delivery Areas

We serve all of San Diego County including La Jolla, Coronado, Del Mar, Pacific Beach, North Park, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Chula Vista, and surrounding areas.

Quick Answers

Common Questions

Can I change my design after placing the deposit?

Yes! Minor design changes are free up to 14 days before your event. Major changes (size or tier count) may affect pricing.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely. We offer gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and vegan options. Let us know during your consultation and we'll find the perfect solution.

What if I need to cancel?

Deposits are non-refundable but can be transferred to a future date with at least 14 days notice. We understand plans change!

Can I order just a tasting box without a consultation?

Yes! We offer a Tasting Box ($35) with 6 mini cupcakes in our most popular flavors. Perfect for deciding before committing.

Do you provide cake stands and toppers?

We have a selection of cake stands available for rental ($25–$50). We can also source or create custom cake toppers for an additional fee.

View All FAQs

Ready to Get Started?

Your perfect cake is just a conversation away. Reach out today and let's start planning something sweet.

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