The Mystery Of Canceled Wedding Cakes: Are They Real?

In July 2020, a photoshopped image of a Ben & Jerry's ice cream tub went viral. The image, created by Instagram user @doctorphotograph, was of a flavour called 'Cancelled Wedding Cake', described as cake batter ice cream with a non-refundable deposit. The image sparked a lot of interest, with many people disappointed to find out that it wasn't real.

Ben & Jerry's Cancelled Wedding Cake flavour

Ben & Jerry's "Cancelled Wedding Cake" flavour isn't real, but it did go viral. The image of the ice cream was created by Instagram user @doctorphotograph, who photoshopped the image and shared it on their feed. The image features a tub of Ben & Jerry's ice cream called "Cancelled Wedding Cake", with the description "cake batter ice cream with a non-refundable deposit". The image also includes two cows, one dressed as a bride and the other as a groom, and the message "Send Gifts!".

The image sparked a lot of attention on social media, with some users finding it hilarious and others disappointed that the flavour wasn't real. Many users expressed their desire for the flavour to be real, with one user commenting, "Ughhh I wish it was real, then I could have the entire cake just to eat my feels."

While Ben & Jerry's "Cancelled Wedding Cake" isn't a real flavour, the company did share a recipe for at-home edible cookie dough around the time the image went viral.

Refund policies for wedding cakes

Wedding cakes are often one of the most expensive elements of a wedding, so it's important to understand the refund policies of your baker or cake decorator before placing an order. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Cancellations and Refunds:

Most bakeries do not offer refunds on custom cakes, including wedding cakes, due to their handcrafted and perishable nature. However, some bakeries may offer partial refunds or store credit under certain circumstances. It's important to read the bakery's policies carefully and ask questions before placing your order.

Postponements and Reschedules:

If you need to postpone or reschedule your wedding cake order, most bakeries will require advanced notice, typically ranging from one to six weeks. In some cases, you may incur additional charges for last-minute changes or redesigns. It's best to communicate any changes to your order as early as possible to avoid extra fees.

Delivery and Pick-up:

If your wedding cake is delivered, most bakeries will only provide a refund if they fail to deliver the cake on the date and time stated in your contract. If you choose to pick up your wedding cake, some bakeries may offer a refund if the cake does not meet your expectations, minus a handling or cancellation fee. However, this refund option typically comes with strict conditions, such as refusing to accept the cake and not keeping it.

Flavor and Texture:

Flavor and texture preferences are subjective, and most bakeries will not offer refunds based solely on these factors. However, if you believe the cake does not meet the bakery's usual standards, you may be able to receive a store credit if you bring the cake back for evaluation.

Acts of Nature:

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather events or the COVID-19 pandemic, most bakeries will not provide refunds. However, they may offer the option to reschedule your order for a later date or provide store credit.

Design Changes:

If you request changes to the design, flavor, or colour of your wedding cake, additional fees may apply, and advanced notice is typically required. It's important to communicate any desired changes as early as possible to ensure the bakery can accommodate your requests.

When ordering a wedding cake, always review the bakery's refund and cancellation policies carefully. Clear communication and timely notifications of any changes are essential to ensuring a smooth process and avoiding additional fees or disappointments.

What to do if your mother orders a wedding cake you don't want

It can be tricky when your mother orders a wedding cake that you don't want. Here are some steps you can take to handle the situation:

• Communicate your wishes clearly: Have an open and honest conversation with your mother, expressing your desires for your wedding cake. It is important that you assert yourself and make your preferences known.
• Offer compromise solutions: Try to find a middle ground that incorporates elements of what your mother wants while still respecting your vision. For example, you could suggest having a small cake that incorporates your mother's traditional elements, along with a dessert bar or cheesecake that you prefer.
• Involve your partner: Discuss the situation with your partner and present a united front. It is important that your mother understands that this is your wedding and both you and your partner have a say in the decision-making process.
• Explore alternative options: If compromising is not possible, consider other options such as having a separate cake for your mother or even opting for a non-cake dessert option that you prefer.
• Password-protect your vendor accounts: To prevent your mother from making changes without your knowledge, add passwords to your accounts with vendors and instruct them not to take instructions from anyone except you and your partner.
• Be firm but respectful: It is important to set clear boundaries with your mother, but also try to do so in a respectful manner. Explain that while you value her input, the final decision rests with you and your partner.
• Seek support from others: If needed, enlist the help of other family members or friends who can act as a buffer between you and your mother, or who can provide additional perspective on the situation.
• Be prepared for potential consequences: Understand that your mother may not react positively to your decision. She may try to guilt-trip you or even threaten to withdraw financial support for the wedding. It is important to weigh the potential consequences and be prepared to stand your ground if needed.
• Focus on the bigger picture: Remember that the wedding cake is just one aspect of your wedding day. Try to keep things in perspective and don't let this issue overshadow the joy and celebration of your special day.

Remember, it is ultimately your wedding, and you have the right to make choices that reflect your personality and preferences. Effective communication, compromise, and clear boundaries will help you navigate this situation and ensure that your wedding cake aligns with your vision.

How to handle cake cancellations

Dealing with cake cancellations can be challenging, especially when it involves special occasions like weddings. Here are some tips on how to handle such situations:

Be Empathetic and Flexible

It is important to put yourself in your client's shoes and understand their situation. Offer flexibility by encouraging clients to reschedule instead of cancelling. Be willing to work with them to find a new date that suits them, and assure them that you will do your best to accommodate their needs.

Have a Clear Cancellation Policy

It is essential to have a well-defined cancellation policy in place, outlining the terms and conditions for cancellations and refunds. Communicate this policy clearly to your clients upfront, so they know what to expect. Your policy should include timelines, such as the number of days before the event when cancellations are still possible and any associated fees.

Offer Refunds or Credits

If a client insists on cancelling, consider offering a full or partial refund, especially if the cancellation is due to unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. If you are unable to provide a refund, you could offer a gift certificate or credit for a future order of equal value. This gesture can help maintain a positive relationship with your client and may lead to future business.

Communicate Openly

Open and honest communication is key. Discuss the situation with your client and try to find a solution that works for both of you. Be transparent about any costs you have already incurred and explain why you may not be able to provide a full refund. Show that you are doing your best to accommodate their needs while also considering the financial implications for your business.

Prepare for Future Cancellations

To protect yourself and your business, ensure that you have a comprehensive contract in place for all cake orders. The contract should cover all relevant details, including your commitment to providing the cake, event details, contact information, and your plan for emergencies, mistakes, and unforeseen events. Additionally, consider building a savings account specifically for your business to help cover refunds and unexpected expenses.

Take Care of Yourself

Lastly, remember to take care of yourself during challenging times. If you need to cancel on your clients due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, do so promptly and offer full refunds. Prioritize your health and well-being, and know that your clients will appreciate your honesty and commitment to providing quality service.

Wedding cake cancellation announcements

It's never easy to call off a wedding, but sometimes it's for the best. If you've sent out invitations and need to let your friends and family know of the change in plans, there are a variety of wedding cancellation announcements to help you share the news gracefully. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Change of Plans: This theme acknowledges the change in plans and conveys a sense of flexibility. You can find change of plans cards, postponement cards, or even "Unsave the Date" announcements with this theme.
• Apologies and Regrets: This approach expresses your sorrow and regret about the cancellation. Announcements with flowers, beach sunsets, or elegant designs can accompany your apologies.
• Humour: If you want to lighten the mood, opt for humorous announcements. For instance, a cartoon lady holding a gold ring, or a smoking extinguisher with the words "Wedding is Cancelled".
• Simple and Direct: Sometimes, a straightforward approach is best. A general wedding cancellation announcement or a custom photo card allows you to share the news without elaborate designs.
• Customised for the Couple: If you're announcing on behalf of the couple, consider personalised cards. For instance, "Announcement for Wedding Cancelled, from the bride/groom, with love".

When creating your wedding cake cancellation announcements, remember to include the relevant details, such as the new date if the wedding is postponed or any other information your guests may need.

Frequently asked questions