When people ask ‘how to start a cake business’, they usually focus on the baking, recipes, equipment, maybe even branding. But if you truly want to grow a successful cake business, you need to start by seeing things from your customer’s perspective. Because they’re the ones who’ll decide whether your business survives or thrives.
Every time someone visits your Instagram, website, or Googles “custom birthday cake near me,” they begin what’s known as the customer journey. It’s the full experience of doing business with you, and if you’re not making that journey easy, clear, and inviting, people won’t stick around.
Let’s look at this a different way. Instead of thinking like a baker, think like your customer.
Step 1: First Impressions
Whether you’re just starting out or already trading, this is the moment most people overlook when learning how to start a cake business. It’s where a customer forms their opinion — fast.
- Does your content speak to your ideal customer, or is it just cake photos with no call to action?
- Are your pictures bright, clear, and appealing?
- Can someone tell what you offer and how to order in under 10 seconds?
Abandon Point #1: Confusing visuals, unclear offers, or no direction will lose people at hello.
Step 2: They Click the Link — Then What?
Your social bio or Google listing did its job. Someone clicked. But now comes a major turning point — and one of the biggest stumbling blocks when people ask how do I start a cake business that actually gets orders?
- Is your website mobile-friendly and easy to navigate?
- Are your prices visible (or at least give a starting point)?
- Is it clear what cakes you offer and how someone can order?
Abandon Point #2: Slow websites, hidden prices, or unclear menus mean lost sales.
Step 3: The Order Process
This is the part that often gets messy — and costs you repeat customers.
- Is the order process simple and smooth, or full of back-and-forth messages?
- Do you collect all necessary details up front?
- Do customers know exactly what happens next — deposit, timeline, collection, or delivery?
Abandon Point #3: Poor communication, guesswork, or unclear next steps make people nervous to commit.
Step 4: Fulfilment and Follow-Up
This is where trust is earned — and where people decide if they’ll recommend you or rebook.
- Do you send confirmation messages with all the agreed details?
- Is the cake delivered as promised, on time, and as expected?
- Do you follow up with a thank-you, ask for feedback, or offer a discount for next time?
Abandon Point #4: Missed communication, lack of clarity, or no follow-up loses loyalty.
Want to Know How to Start a Cake Business That Works? Start With Clarity.
Boundaries aren’t just about protecting your time — they build trust. When you’re clear about your process, pricing, and timelines, customers feel safe to book with you.
- Do you clearly share how much notice is needed for an order?
- Are your prices easy to find and understand?
- Have you set expectations for response times and working hours?
These may seem like small details, but these boundaries show our customers what your terms are and how your business works.
Final Challenge: Walk in Their Shoes
Do this today:
- Google your business name
- Click through your bio link like a customer would
- Pretend to order from yourself
- Read your messages or your website like a stranger
What’s unclear? Where might someone give up?
Improving the customer journey is one of the most powerful things you can do when learning how to start a cake business — and grow it with confidence.
Has this helped you? Please let me know in the comments.
