How far in advance should I order?

Available pickup dates are listed through the end of the year. In a rush? Order by Monday or Tuesday at 9 am for same week pickup.

My pick up date is not listed on the drop down menu! What should I do? 

If your weekend date is not listed for pickup, it means I am either at capacity that week, or I am unavailable.  Chassidy (that’s me!) is a one woman show, so availability is limited and does fill up, especially during wedding months (May-June; Sept-Oct).

I need a cake for a day besides Friday or Saturday. Is that possible?

In general, pickup days are Fridays and Saturdays. For holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas or events like graduations, there may be expanded pickup dates or hours. You'll find all available dates listed when you add your order to the cart.

In certain cases, I may be able to accommodate a weekday afternoon pickup. Please feel free to email hello@takesthecakeroanoke.com to inquire about availability. Takes the Cake is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Can I change the design/colors/etc of one of the online cakes?

For Semi-Customized cake options, you have the flexibility to choose your own color scheme. If you desire a cake designed exactly to your specifications, we also offer custom cakes.

Please note that Just Because and Pre-designed cakes are not customizable

I want a character cake for my child’s birthday. Do you do that? 

No, I don't create anything under copyright trademark, such as cartoon characters or logos. However, you can choose a color-themed cake, and personalize it with your own character toppers. 

Can I request a custom design or flavor not listed?

Yes!  If you love a design in the online shop but have a flavor in mind that isn’t listed, fill out the custom cake form.

Likewise if you like a fully custom design, fill out the custom cake form. If it aligns with my expertise and I'm confident I can whip up a stunner, count me in. If it's a bit out of my wheelhouse, I'll shoot straight with you and we can collaborate on a design that's both fabulous and within my style. And if, by chance, it's not my cup of buttercream, I've got a sweet network of baker friends I can hook you up with!

Oh, and just a heads-up—I am a buttercream only girl. Fondant and I? Let's just say we're not on speaking terms!

I want to include a message on the cake; how do I do that?

Purchase a stamped topper from the online shop and I’ll add it to your cake. Or, choose a covered cake board with a stamped message.

I do not write directly on cakes.

What are the flavor options?

Lemon Lavender - lemon cake layered with blackberry curd and lavender buttercream.

Almond Blackberry - white vanilla-almond cake layered with blackberry curd and vanilla-almond buttercream.

Chocolate Oreo - rich chocolate cake layered with Oreo buttercream.

Vanilla Oreo - golden vanilla cake with Oreos baked right in layered with semi-sweet chocolate ganache and Oreo buttercream.

Classic Birthday Cake - golden vanilla cake with bittersweet chocolate fudge buttercream.

Chocolate Chocolate - rich chocolate cake layered with bittersweet chocolate fudge buttercream.

Chocolate Espresso - rich chocolate cake layered with espresso infused buttercream.

Tiramisu - vanilla cake soaked in espresso, layered with cream cheese and espresso buttercream.

If you would like a different flavor option, please select a Custom Cake Form and allow 2-4 weeks lead time.

Do you make vegan/gluten free/allergen friendly desserts?

Generally, no, I am not able to accommodate special dietary requests. I follow standard procedures sanitizing and avoiding cross contamination; however my kitchen is not nut or allergen free, therefore cross contamination is a possibility.

I do have many desserts that do not contain nuts and I am able to bake certain gluten free flavors for those with gluten sensitivities.

To request a gluten free cake or dessert, please use the Custom Cake Form.

Do you offer delivery?

Delivery is not available for Online Shop orders.

Delivery is available for custom orders with a minimum order amount of $500. It is required for cake with 3 tiers and above.

Do you ship your cakes?

Not at this time.

Where do I pick up my cake?

Takes the Cake is conveniently located in Salem City (Virginia) about a mile from Sheetz on West Main Street.  The pickup address will be provided in the confirmation email upon purchase. If you have purchased and did not receive a confirmation, reach out to hello@takesthecakeroanoke.com to make sure it was fully processed.

Is there anything I should know about transporting my cake?

Yes! Place the cake in the flattest part of your vehicle - either on the floorboard or back of an SUV. Never place your cake in a seat! Keep the A/C cranking, and watch out for sudden stops, curves, and road bumps or railroad tracks that could cause the cake settle or shift.

Basically, keep it flat, keep it cold and drive like grandma is in the back seat holding a pot of chili.

How should I store my cake before cutting?

Your cake will be nice and chilled for pickup. That chill not only keeps the buttercream looking sharp but also ensures a sturdy journey home. When you arrive, pop that beauty into the fridge.

Cakes are at their best when enjoyed at room temperature. Remove the cake from the fridge 1-3 hours (depending on the size of the cake) before serving.

If you have cold desserts (such as cheesecake, pie shooters or any cakes with curd or fruit fillings) keep them cold when they're not on display.

How do I cut tall or tiered cakes? 

Don’t be intimidated! I'll give you a step-by-step guide when you swing by for pickup, complete with a handy serving chart. But if you're feeling the need for cake-cutting wisdom right this moment, check out this video: Cake Cutting 101

How do I save leftovers?

Rule of thumb: air tight is best! You can either wrap individual cake slices in saran wrap or put it in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge or freezer. 

I do not recommend refrigerating cupcakes. Cupcakes have naturally exposed cake and will naturally dry out faster than cake. Refrigeration speeds up this process. Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

What is your cancellation policy?

Two-Tier Cake Orders:

• Refunds, store credit, or rescheduling are available for orders canceled seven or more days in advance of pickup. Please note a 5% cancellation fee will be applied to refunds only.

• Orders canceled within six days of pickup are not eligible for refunds, reschedules, or store credit.

One-Tier Cakes, Toppers, and Other Dessert Orders:

• Refunds or rescheduling are available for orders canceled seven or more days in advance of pickup, Refunds are subject to a 5% cancellation fee.

• Rescheduling is available for orders canceled four to six days in advance of pickup.

• Orders canceled within 72 hours of pickup are not eligible for refunds, or reschedules.