Custom vs. Standard Cake Toppers: Which One Is Right for Your Event?

Custom vs. Standard Cake Toppers: Which One Is Right for Your Event?

This is something I get asked a lot — and I completely understand why! When you're planning a celebration, the little details (like your cake topper!) can make a big difference. So, let’s break it down: what’s the difference between a custom and a standard topper here at SugarBrush, and how do you choose the right one for your event?

Spoiler alert: Everything is handmade. Everything can be customised. And — best of all — there’s no price difference between a “standard” and a “custom” order.


🌿 What Do We Mean by “Standard”?

Standard toppers are designs I’ve made before — popular themes like animals, astronauts, farm sets, or princesses. These are listed in the shop and ready for you to order as-is, or with small tweaks.

Want to change the colour scheme? Add a name? No problem — just pop a note in at checkout.

These are perfect if:

  • You love one of the current designs

  • You’re in a hurry and want something quick to customise

  • You’re working with a classic party theme


✨ And “Custom” Just Means… Whatever You Imagine

There’s no “custom” surcharge here. All of my toppers are made to order, so whether you’re choosing a design from the shop or one we create together, the process is the same on my end.

⏱️ I start making your topper once the order is booked in, and it will be ready to dispatch within 3–5 days.

Need it later? No problem! If your celebration is a few weeks (or months!) away, you can order early and I’ll schedule your dispatch closer to the event. Just let me know your party date at checkout or via message.

Have a completely new idea in mind — like a favourite toy, a specific theme, or even a fondant figure that looks like the guest of honour? I love those kinds of orders! If you'd like a topper that resembles a real person, all I need is a photo, and I’ll sculpt a likeness just for them.

You can message me directly or fill out the Custom Order Form to get started.


🧁 Handmade = Personalised

Every topper is made by hand using edible fondant. That means:

  • ✅ Everything is food-safe

  • 🎨 They’re beautifully detailed

  • 💖 You can even keep them as a memento (many customers do!)

Even our standard sets can be tailored with different names, numbers, colours, and details. So really, there’s no such thing as a “non-custom” topper around here.


📦 Shelf Life & Storage Tips

Fondant toppers are durable and long-lasting when stored correctly. Here's what you need to know:

  • 🗓️ Shelf life: Up to 6 months

  • 🧊 Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place (away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight)

  • 💪 Texture: Toppers will naturally harden over time — this is totally normal and helps them keep their shape

  • 🎁 Many customers save theirs as keepsakes!

So yes — you can order well in advance, and your topper will still look fantastic on the big day.


Here’s a Quick Look:

Feature Standard Design Custom Design
Predesigned? ✅ Yes ❌ No — made from your ideas
Fully customisable? ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Handmade to order? ✅ Yes ✅ Yes
Dispatch timing 3–5 days from order 3–5 days from order
Schedule ahead? ✅ Yes — just request it ✅ Yes — just request it
Price Same as custom Same as standard
Shelf life Up to 6 months Up to 6 months

🎉 Ready to Order?

Whether you’ve fallen in love with a topper in the shop or want to bring a brand-new idea to life, I’m always excited to create something special for your celebration.

Thank you for supporting a small handmade business — it truly means the world. 💕

With love,
Hannah
Founder of SugarBrush

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