FAQ
What does a topper cost?
A basic 2 figure cake topper is $550 plus shipping unless it is a local delivery. Additional figures on a topper are $225. ea. A single figure sculpture is $300. Small animals are $150. For larger animals ask for a quote.
What about extra props?
This will depend on the size of the extra item and detail requires. Please contact us with detailed information of what you have in mind and we will provide a quote.
Why can't the figures be smaller?
It is difficult to get the detail I want if I go too much smaller though I can go a bit smaller if necessary.
What kind of pictures do you need?
You may send pictures that you already have (and I do want some of those) but I will need photos taken especially for this project. Please look at the Photo Guidelines Page. It shows samples of good and bad pictures as well as tips for better picture taking. The Getting Started form also outlines the required photos.
What types of Payment do you accept?We accept PayPal and Credit Card through PayPal, a very highly rated and secure on-line payments processor. All payments in PayPal should be made to: MoadimCorp@bellsouth.net (our PayPal account address). Advanced payment of 50% is required to reserve and begin sculpture , since all of CakeToppersRus.com merchandise is personalized and made to custom specifications, we cannot resell it to anyone else. Once we have confirmed your payment, we hold a specific time span to begin and complete your figure.We can not refund your retainer once your order has been placed.
What is PayPal?
PayPalis a company that enables anyone with an email address to send and receive online payments safely, easily and quickly. PayPal is a global leader in online payments, and available in 190 countries and regions and multiple currencies. It has more than 100 million customer accounts worldwide. Each user signs up with PayPal and then enters their necessary banking and credit card information. Once registration is completed, your email address is all you need to send and receive money. PayPal increases your safety by keeping your financial account information private. You don't have to share your account numbers with us unlike making a typical credit card payment over the Web. PayPal just sends us an email notice that the money has been transferred to our PayPal account but we never see your credit card or checking account information.
What if I don't know what dress, etc. that I will wear?
If your wedding is a long way off and you haven't made those decisions yet there is no problem. The important thing is to get your spot reserved. Get pictures to me as you get them as long as I have them at least 3 months before the wedding.
Do you only make toppers or can you do a single figure?I can do single figures for any occasion.
What if I want a figure of a person who is deceased or not available and I only have a couple of pictures?
The degree of likeness will depend on the quality of the pictures available. If you only have a front view I can still do it but I will be guessing as to the profile.
How long does it take to make a cake topper?
I allow myself about 3 weeks for a topper.
How many toppers do you take a year?I will take about 2 toppers a month, it takes about 2 ½ weeks to complete a topper. We like to have a 3 week time span to carefully work on each topper having extra time available in case of any issues that may arise.
Can you do cartoon characters?
I can create any type of character you can give me a picture of. We do reserve the right to decline any figure or topper creation that we deem offensive.
What are the figures made of?
Polymer Clay.
Will the figures look exactly like us?
My goal is to get as close as I can to your likeness but I do not guarantee a certain degree of likeness. These are not intended to be portraits but representations. The bodies and props will be cartoonish in representation. Hair, eye and skin colors are not guaranteed to match perfectly. I come as close as I can with what I am provided in the pictures but all of those elements can differ substantially from picture to picture.
Are the figures fragile?
I wouldn't throw one against the wall but polymer clay is very strong once it is baked. Thin pieces will remain slightly flexible after baking.
How long do the figures last?
I have figures that I made about 18 years ago and they are still in perfect condition. A display dome will help to keep your sculpture as fresh as the day it graced your cake.
How soon should I reserve my topper?
I need at least 3 months advance notice to complete a sculpture but that usually isn't soon enough. Many people make reservations a year and more in advance. Please contacts me at Michelle@caketoppersrus.com as soon as you can so I can enter you into our planner.
How much does a topper weigh?
A typical 2 figure cake topper will be about one and a half pounds. More for larger or multifigured toppers.
What size is the base of the cake topper?
Bases vary in size but a typical topper has a base of 6.5" round. The cake's top layer will need to be large enough to accommodate the base. Larger, heavier sculptures may do better on a stand next to the cake.
What are my options for the base?
My bases are a dark brown walnut grain. They can be painted if you'd prefer a solid color. The top of the base can also represent other mediums like tile, brick, stones, etc. Check with me.
Do I need to do anything special to the cake?
A topper weighs much less than a layer of cake. To support the layers your decorator will put dowels in each layer to support the next layer. The same procedure will apply to the top layer that supports the topper. Have a cake plate put on the top layer to set the topper upon. Do not set it directly on the icing.
What types of payment methods do you use?
I take checks, credit cards. Final payment must be received before topper can be shipped.
What should I do if I decide I want you to make a topper for me?
Contact me first for availability. I will let you know if your date is available. Then download the forms on the Pricing and Ordering page. Send me the completed order form with a 50% deposit to reserve your space Then start getting your information together, fill out the information form and take the pictures.
Can I e-mail pictures?
Yes, though if the files are large split them up between several e-mails.
What if changes are made after I send the pictures and info sheet?
Changes are not a problem as long as I have not started the topper or the change can be fitted in to what I have completed.. Just e-mail me with the changes.
Can you take pictures of my topper while you are making it?
I really don't have time for that. I will take pictures of it once it is finished and post them on my site as soon as I get them ready. You will usually have the topper before I get them on my site since I ship next day delivery.
How do you ship?
I use Fed Ex next day delivery. Shipping prices have increased significantly so any increase in shipping cost will be added to the final payment.
What if something is broken when it arrives?
Contact me immediately. If it is simply a piece that gets knocked loose do to rough handling you can usually simply re glue it. If it suffers significant damage you may return it to me for repair.
Do you insure the toppers?
Yes, but FedEx puts a limit on one of a kind items of about $250 regardless of the declared value.
If you have other questions that were not covered in the FAQ page ,please feel free to contact us at:
Artist
Michelle@CakeToppersRus.com
Sales
Hugo Hernandez 786-355-5586
