When it comes to wanting to give the best first impression to your customers at your cake consultation, the big question is, what should I wear?
The question seems so trivial but I can see why it’s very important to you. This seems to be particularly important for designers who are:
Looking to grow their business and make their mark in their local area
Taking their business more seriously
Transitioning from budget customers to high-end clients
If you're currently attracting budget customers but want to bring in those premium clients, you definitely need to make some changes in your business – and your attire can play a significant role in that transition.
My Personal Philosophy on Cake Consultation Attire
Here's my big take: When you start your own business, you have full freedom to conduct it in any way that makes you feel good, authentic, and in your element. You don't have to follow rules that someone else set if they don't feel right for you.
I've noticed that some cake designers feel they should wear a chef's jacket to appear more professional or to establish credibility (especially if they haven't gone to culinary school – and yes, there's a whole controversy around that!).
Others prefer branded t-shirts with their logo, feeling that represents their business better.
My advice? Wear what makes you feel your absolute best – what makes you feel confident and ready to design amazing cakes for your customers. That's the outfit you should choose for your consultations.
If a chef's jacket with your beautiful logo makes you feel proud and professional, go for it! But don't wear one just because you think you're "supposed to." That's what I really want to convey here – wear clothes that make you feel great and that express who you are as an entrepreneur.
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My Personal Style for Cake Consultations
For me personally, I like wearing something that's a step up from everyday casual – what I'd call a "creative, sassy business casual" outfit. I'm a creative dresser in general, and I like to bring that energy into my cake consultations.
Some days I might wear a hot pink blazer with a nice t-shirt and some cool shoes. Other days, I might go all-black with gold accessories. I feel my best when I'm expressing myself through my clothes – wearing things I'm comfortable in, just slightly elevated, like what I'd wear to a networking event as a creative entrepreneur.
I encourage you to think about it this way too. Don't feel like you have to follow a specific dress code to "get it right." If something in your cake business doesn't feel true to you, try something else! Do what feels authentic and aligned with your personal brand.
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Authenticity Attracts Your Ideal Clients
When you wear something that makes you feel confident – whether that's a polo with your company logo, a chef's jacket, or a creative outfit that expresses your personality – you're going to exude that confidence during your consultations. And clients will feel it too!
The beautiful thing about being true to yourself in your business is that you'll attract people who appreciate and value that authenticity. You'll connect with clients who want to work with YOU specifically, because of who you are and how you express yourself. These are the clients who will become your biggest fans and refer you to others.
What Not to Wear to Cake Consultations
While I'm all about personal expression, there are a few things to consider avoiding:
Overly casual attire - Even if your style is relaxed, avoid anything that looks sloppy or like you just rolled out of bed. Remember, this is still a business meeting!
Impractical clothing - You may need to move around, show cake samples, or demonstrate something during your consultation. Make sure your outfit allows for comfortable movement.
Strong perfumes or scents - When you're discussing cake flavors, you don't want competing aromas distracting your clients.
Anything that makes you feel uncomfortable - If you're constantly adjusting your clothes or feeling self-conscious, you won't be able to focus on your client and their needs.
Elevating Your Look for Different Types of Clients
If you're transitioning from budget to high-end clients, you might want to gradually elevate your consultation wardrobe. Here are some ideas:
For wedding consultations: Consider a slightly more polished look, especially if you're meeting at upscale venues or bridal salons.
For corporate clients: A more business-appropriate outfit might help establish credibility, while still maintaining your creative flair.
For children's birthday cake clients: A more playful, approachable look might help parents and kids feel comfortable with you.
The key is to maintain your authentic style while adapting appropriately to the context.
Branding Through Your Attire
Your clothing can actually be part of your brand identity! Consider:
Incorporating your brand colors into your outfits
Wearing a signature piece that becomes part of your professional identity
Using branded accessories like pins, scarves, or jewelry with your logo
Creating custom aprons or jackets if you do live demonstrations
This can create a cohesive experience from your social media to your in-person consultations.
Final Thoughts: Confidence is Your Best Accessory
At the end of the day, what matters most is how you feel in your consultation outfit. When you feel good, you look good, and you'll exude the confidence that clients respond to. That confidence will help you communicate the value of your work and justify those premium prices.
So, what do you wear to your cake consultations? Do you feel good in whatever you're wearing for your business meetings?
I'd love to know! This topic always generates interesting conversations, and I'm curious about your approach.