Pickup dates are released 2–3 months in advance and are removed as they reach capacity.

Please place your order at least two weeks before your desired pickup date. A date may close sooner if that week fills.

Add your selected item to the cart to view available pickup dates. Choose your preferred date to reserve it, then complete checkout. If a date is not listed, it is unavailable.

After completing your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to schedule your pickup time. Please select your pickup time promptly so your order can be prepared for a smooth handoff.

Online Bakeshop orders require at least two weeks’ notice. Same-week and last-minute orders are not available through the Online Bakeshop.

Online Bakeshop items are offered exactly as listed. The available design, flavors, sizes, colorways, preset inscriptions, and add-ons are shown on each product page. Custom colors, wording, decorations, flavor substitutions, and design changes are not available.

Please choose from the flavors listed on the product page. Flavor substitutions are not available for Online Bakeshop cakes. If you are looking for a signature flavor or a more tailored cake, please submit a Custom Celebration Cake inquiry.

I offer some gluten-free cake flavors and desserts for those with gluten sensitivities, but they are available by custom order only — not through the Online Bakeshop.

Products are made in a home kitchen that handles wheat, dairy, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, and other common allergens. While care is taken in preparation, an allergen-free product or environment cannot be guaranteed. Please contact Takes the Cake before ordering if you have a food allergy or dietary concern.

Only cakes that include a preset inscription option can include wording. Please choose from the available dropdown options; custom names, dates, phrases, and free-text messages are not available through the Online Bakeshop.

Online Bakeshop orders are pickup only. Delivery and setup may be available for weddings and larger events; please submit a Wedding & Event Inquiry for details.

Not at this time.
All cakes and desserts are available for local pickup only.

Takes the Cake is located in Salem, VA.

You’ll receive the pickup address after checkout. Pickup reminder emails go out on Thursdays.

If you placed an order but didn’t receive a confirmation email, please check your spam folder. If you still don't see it, send a message via the Contact Form to make sure it was processed.

To keep your cake safe:

• Place it on a flat surface in your vehicle — the floorboard or the back of an SUV works best.

• Never place your cake on a seat, as it can tilt and slide.

• Keep the air conditioning running to maintain a cool environment.

• Drive carefully! Watch for sudden stops, sharp turns, bumps, and railroad tracks.

Pro Tip:
Drive like grandma’s in the backseat holding a pot of chili — slow and steady wins the race.

Your cake will be fully chilled and ready for pickup to help keep it sturdy and fresh.

When you get home, place the cake in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.

• Remove the cake from the fridge about 1–2 hours before serving to allow it to come to room temperature.

Special Note:
If your cake contains cheesecake, curd, or fresh fruit fillings, keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve — those fillings need to stay chilled.

Because every order is made fresh and reserved in my production schedule, cancellation policies vary slightly by item.

• 7+ days before pickup: Eligible for a refund or reschedule (reschedule depends on current availability).
  Refunds include a 5% cancellation fee.

• 4–6 days before pickup:
  Eligible for rescheduling only (no refunds).

• Within 72 hours of pickup:
  Not eligible for refunds or rescheduling.

Serving estimates and available sizes are listed on each product page. If a Bakeshop cake does not meet your guest count or event needs, submit a Custom Celebration Cake inquiry for a larger or more tailored option.

You will receive an order confirmation email, followed by a link to schedule your pickup time. Please review your order details promptly and contact Takes the Cake as soon as possible if you notice an error.

Because Online Bakeshop cakes are scheduled and prepared in advance, changes may be limited or unavailable once an order is placed. Contact Takes the Cake as soon as possible; changes cannot be guaranteed.