I’ve made a few batches for coworkers and friends and have always just charged for the cost of ingredients. It takes SO much time and I feel like each time I’m asked it’s for more cookies and for a more distant connection. I’m not a professional by any means and know that I’ll never fully cover the cost of my time, nor is that what I’m looking for since it’s just a hobby, but I’d like to get something for my time. I was kinda thinking of leaning towards $3 per cookie, but my husband thinks that might be too much. Does anyone have any guidance of what I can or should charge given my amateur level? Here are some pics from the last couple sets I did for a couple of baby showers. And I’m in Northern California if that makes a difference. Thanks!
by shbeesh
7 Comments
Call a local bakery and ask what they would charge. This is professional quality work and you should charge professional prices.
The other thing to consider, and I mean this respectfully, is just saying ‘no.’ It’s flattering to be asked once or twice, but too much is too much. Your time is your own.
These are super cute. I would pay $4 ea.
Your cookies are gorgeous. A 3” cookie, which is a standard size, should sell for at least $4 per cookie individually and $40ish per dozen.
Don’t low-ball yourself; I’d go $48-$50/dozen and then increase price over time. I personally do a small annual increase, and upped my custom minimum from 1 dozen to 1.5 dozen this year. I’m seven years in and pricing starts at $64/dozen, located in Texas
ETA: even if it’s just a hobby for now, if you ever turned it into a full-fledged business, you want to start out with a pricing standard that won’t negatively affect your future baking/paying yourself, or negatively affect those around you (average market price in your area)
Your cookies are cute!
A hundred percent you should be charging for your time. Cookies take so much time plus wear and tear on your body. I think $3-$4 a cookie is more than fair. Your time as a hobby baker is just as valuable as a professional baker.
These are so cute!!!
$4-$5 to start then charge more if a decoration/design on a cookie is more complex.