Custom Cake Questions Answered | Marin Cake Studio FAQ

Have questions about custom cakes, our design process, or how Marin Cake Studio works. You're in the right place. This comprehensive FAQ section answers the most common questions we receive from clients. Whether you're wondering about our process, timeline, pricing, dietary options, or specific celebration needs, you'll find answers here.

If your question isn't answered below, don't hesitate to reach out. We're happy to discuss your specific situation and help you understand how we can create the perfect custom cake for your celebration.

  • We specialize in custom cakes, wedding cakes, cupcakes, and custom sugar cookies, tailored to fit your event or celebration. Click here to start your order.

  • Pick-up is available on Saturdays from 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM and Sundays from 9am-10am. For other times, please contact us to schedule an appointment.

  • Pick-up address is: 1545 4th Street, Suite C, San Rafael, CA 94901

  • To ensure safe transport, we recommend you place your cake flat on the floor of your vehicle or in the back of an SUV. Avoid placing the cake on the seat of a car, as the uneven surface may cause it to lean or shift during the drive. MCS is not responsible once it is picked up from our location. If you need assistance with loading, feel free to ask us for help.

  • Absolutely! Just provide us with the name and phone number of the person picking up your order, and we’ll ensure they receive it correctly. Please make sure they are aware of the pick-up timeframe in advance, as we are unable to accommodate late pick-ups on Saturdays and Sundays. We depart promptly at 10 AM for wedding deliveries.

  • Yes, all cakes and cupcakes should be refrigerated until 1-2 hours before your event to maintain their freshness.

  • Definitely! We create custom cakes, including wedding cakes. Just share your ideas or photos with us, and we’ll make it happen.

  • Yes, we can create custom image cakes, cupcakes, and cookies. Send us your photo, and we’ll take care of the rest.

  • We recommend placing your cake or cupcake orders 2 weeks in advance. During busy seasons, we may book out up to 4-6 weeks in advance, so be sure to check the current availability listed at the top of our contact form.

  • Custom sugar cookies are more detailed and time-consuming, so we require a minimum of 2 weeks’ notice for all cookie orders.

  • No, cookies should be stored in a cool, dry place. They will stay fresh for 10 days or more.

  • Each cookie is individually packaged in a clear bag and heat-sealed to ensure freshness.

  • We are a small custom operation and currently offer pick-up only, except for wedding cakes that meet a minimum price.

  • We’re happy to offer select gluten free, dairy free, and vegan options. Gluten free cakes, cupcakes, and custom sugar cookies, dairy free cakes and cupcakes, and vegan cakes are available by request. While we take great care in preparation, our kitchen is shared and not a certified gluten free, dairy free, or vegan facility, so cross contact may occur. We do not offer nut free products at this time.

  • We do our best to accommodate dietary preferences; however, our products are made in a shared kitchen that handles nuts, tree nuts, soy, eggs, dairy, and wheat. If you have a severe food allergy, please contact us before ordering so we can discuss your needs.

  • Please refer to our cake cutting guide for information on servings and cutting instructions.

  • To confirm your order, a 50% deposit and acceptance of our terms are required. Given the time and care involved in creating your custom cake, the remaining balance must be paid at least one-two weeks before the due date. For orders placed with less than two weeks' notice, full payment is required at the time of ordering.

  • Once payment is received, whether in part or in full, your order is considered final. If you need to cancel your order, a refund will be provided if you notify us at least one week before the event date. Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for cancellations made less than one week prior to the event date.

  • Once your order is picked up, MCS is not responsible for any damage to cakes, cupcakes, or cookie once you have left our location. We recommend placing your cake flat on the floor of your vehicle or in the back of an SUV for safe transport. If you need help loading your order, please ask.

    For wedding cakes and cupcakes delivered to a venue, MCS is not responsible for any damage that occurs after delivery and setup. While we take every precaution to ensure safe delivery and setup, we cannot be held liable if the cake is moved by the venue staff, caterer, or someone from the wedding party. We take photos of all cake setups upon delivery for your reference.