Most bakers are wonderful, honest people, but I've seen some instances in which a couple really got swindled from some shady tactics, so the three big things you need to cover with your baker:
1. Have a sit-down with your baker, your fiance, and anyone else you want to include (me!), and decide on the flavors and the design of your cake. Bring pictures or sketches of what you're interested in, and keep an open mind as your baker may have great ideas that would fit your budget better.
2. Make sure your baker has a detailed sketch of the cake before the meeting is over. If there's something you're very specific about wanting, and it's new to them, give them as much information to refer back to as you can.
3. GET IT ALL IN WRITING!!! If you only follow one bit of advice from me, please let this be it. In your contract you MUST detail everything: what each tier consists of with flavor, height, and layers, how names or any writing needs to be spelled, the height of the cake overall, delivery, everything. The contract also needs to detail everything your money pays for. I have literally seen bakers charge to assemble the tiers, and even to put piping on! If you have structural elements (and you will if it's got any kind of tiring or height), make sure that's not an additional cost.
Have fun with your cake. Nothing says you need to have four round white tiers with a monogram. Bakers are coming up with the most interesting ideas, and each so exciting and easy to tailor to your wedding. Here's some fantastic ideas to get you ready:
Happy planning!
Rebekah Ross
Weddings & Events
