I used to be a supermarket cake decorator. Here are 9 of my best tips for ordering a cake.

What happened: A former supermarket cake decorator shared tips for ordering cakes from grocery store bakeries, including placing custom orders two to three weeks ahead and asking about frosting alternatives. Key numbers: Two years worked as a decorator; two to three weeks' notice for custom orders; smash cakes typically 4 inches in diameter. Why it matters: The tips suggest supermarket cakes can be affordable options, but flavor availability and decoration requests may depend on the store and how busy the bakery is.

A former supermarket cake decorator shared tips for ordering cakes from grocery store bakeries, including placing custom orders two to three weeks ahead and asking about frosting alternatives.

The tips suggest supermarket cakes can be affordable options, but flavor availability and decoration requests may depend on the store and how busy the bakery is.