Terms & Conditions: Baked by Nicoleta (2026)
1. General
These terms and conditions apply to all orders placed with Baked by Nicoleta. By placing an order, you agree to be bound by these terms. These terms do not affect your statutory rights as a consumer.
2. Ordering and Booking Process
Written Orders Only: All orders must be placed in writing via WhatsApp, Email, or Direct Message on our official social media pages.
Customer Responsibility: It is the customer's responsibility to provide all necessary details (flavour, size, design, text). Missing or vague specifications may lead to dissatisfaction. We are not liable for the absence of design elements that were not explicitly requested in writing at the time of booking.
Booking Confirmation: An order is only "booked" and secured once: (1) We have confirmed the order in writing, and (2) We have received your deposit.
3. Payments and Handover
Deposit: A deposit of 50% is required to secure your booking. This is non-refundable as it covers administrative costs, consultation time, and the loss of business from reserving your date.
Balance Payment: The balance must be paid in full before or at the point of collection. No products will be handed over until the full balance has been received.
Payment Methods: We accept cash or bank transfer. Funds must be received in our account before items are released. We recommend transferring the balance 24–48 hours in advance to account for bank delays.
4. Artistic Variation & Design
Portfolio Benchmark: By booking, you trust our ability to deliver quality consistent with our social media portfolio.
Creative Interpretation: Reference photos are for inspiration; the final product is a handmade artistic interpretation.
Material & Colour Variation: Variations may occur if identical decorations are unavailable (we reserve the right to substitute). Colours may vary from digital images due to screen settings, lighting, or food-dye reactions. These variations are not grounds for a refund or cancellation.
Post-Completion Modifications: Any changes requested after completion that were not in the original booking will incur additional charges. We reserve the right to reject modifications that are unfeasible or compromise the cake's structure.
5. Product Care, Handling, and Liability
Once the product leaves our premises, Baked by Nicoleta is no longer liable for any damage caused by improper transport, storage, or handling.
Transport: Cakes must be transported on a flat, level surface (ideally the footwell or boot of a car). Do not place cakes on car seats. Ensure the vehicle is cool. Drive with extreme care; we are not liable for damage caused by sudden braking or poor road conditions.
Mandatory Refrigeration: Our desserts are made fresh and must be kept refrigerated (at or below 8°C). Failure to do so poses risks of structural collapse and spoilage. Do not leave the product in a hot car or near a heat source.
Non-Edible Decorations: Many cakes contain non-edible elements (e.g., support dowels, floral wire, plastic toppers, charms). All non-edible decorations must be fully removed from the cake before cutting and serving. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure guests are aware of these elements.
Cutting: Use a sharp, non-serrated knife dipped in hot water for the best results. We are not liable for damage caused by improper cutting techniques.
6. Freshness, Cancellations & Refunds
Freshness: All products are baked fresh, never more than 24 hours before your agreed collection time.
Cancellation: If you cancel within 3 days of the collection date, we reserve the right to retain the full payment (deposit and balance).
Refund Grounds: Claims are only considered for major structural failure upon handover, or significant deviation from written specs. Dissatisfaction with taste or aesthetic is not grounds for a refund.
7. Allergens
Allergen Handling: We keep nuts, gluten, dairy, eggs, and soya separately and take care to prevent cross-contamination.
Important Notice: All orders—including "allergen-free" requests—are prepared in the same kitchen. We cannot guarantee a 100% "trace-free" environment.
8. Collection
Responsibility: You must inspect the order upon collection. We are not liable for damage occurring after the item leaves our premises.
Missed Slots: If you miss your slot without notice, later pickup may not be available. We reserve the right to dispose of the order after 24 hours with no refund issued.
9. Complaints
Concerns must be reported within 24 hours of collection. To investigate, at least 75% of the product must be returned to us. We cannot provide refunds for products that have been consumed.
Baked by Nicoleta is a registered food business with Chelmsford City Council.
