How to Collaborate with Local Businesses as a Cake Maker
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By Makai Cake Decorating Supplies
Want more orders, more exposure, and a stronger brand?
Collaborating with local businesses is one of the smartest moves you can make as a cake maker. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, partnerships can help you reach new audiences and build long-term trust.
Why Collaboration Matters
Working with other businesses allows you to:
- Get referrals from trusted local sources
- Reach customers you wouldn’t find on your own
- Build credibility by association
- Share marketing efforts and events
It’s not just about sales – it’s about relationships.
Who You Can Collaborate With
Here are great starting points for cake decorators and bakers:
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Florists – wedding and celebration referrals
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Photographers – styled shoot collaborations
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Event planners – consistent cake supplier
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Wedding venues – preferred vendor listings
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Cafés and gift shops – pop-up displays or sample sales
- Balloon or party decorators – birthday and baby shower bundles
How to Approach Them
If you're just starting out and don’t feel confident yet – that’s okay. Many successful collaborations began with a simple, honest message.
You might worry about not having enough followers, experience or portfolio – but everyone starts somewhere.
Tips for Beginners:
- Offer a free sample in exchange for feedback or photos
- Be honest – say you’re growing and eager to build relationships
- Focus on value: maybe you don’t have 5k followers, but you can create something beautiful, free, or custom
- Ask for a small chance – not a big commitment
- Team up with other small or new businesses who are also growing
It’s not always about numbers – it’s about trust, style and potential.
Keep it simple and personal. Don’t go in with a hard sell – show genuine interest and offer value.
Tips:
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What to Offer in Return
Partnerships should benefit both sides. Offer:
- Tagging them in social media posts
- Discounts for their clients
- Free samples or styled items for their portfolio
- Referrals from your own clients
Make it easy for them to say yes. Be clear, friendly and professional.
Sample Outreach Message
Hi [Name],
I’m [Your Name], a local cake maker specialising in custom designs for events and weddings. I’ve been following your [business/page] and love the work you do!
I wondered if you’d be open to a local collaboration – perhaps a styled shoot, giveaway, or simply sharing referrals. I’d love to offer you a sample box or a meeting to chat further.
No pressure at all – just thought I’d reach out in case it’s a good fit.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Business Name]
[Contact Info or Instagram handle]
👉 Want a printable, editable version?
Download the Email Template (PDF)
Extra Tips for Successful Collaborations
Try Different Formats:
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Cross-promotion: Share each other’s posts or flyers
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Bundle deals: Cake + flowers + balloons for events
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Referral cards: Give clients discount codes for your partners
- Joint packages: Team up for weddings or baby showers
Measure the Results:
- Are you getting new followers or enquiries from their page?
- Do clients mention your partners by name?
- Are coupon codes or referral bonuses being used?
Maintain the Relationship:
- Send a quick monthly update or thank-you
- Tag them regularly in social posts
- Share a treat box or mini cake as a friendly gesture
Related Posts You Might Like
Looking to grow your cake business even further? Here are some useful reads:
👉 How to Price Your Cakes for Profit – Learn what to charge and why it matters
👉 Top Cake Pricing Mistakes – And How to Avoid Them
👉 Is Home Cake Making Right for You?
👉 How to Use Leftover Cake Ingredients – Smart Ideas That Sell
👉 Customer Complaints – How to Handle Them as a New Cake Maker
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to do it all alone. Local partnerships are one of the easiest ways to grow your cake business organically – and often, for free.
Start with one simple email and see where it takes you!