When is the deposit due for a wedding cake?

The correct choice indicates that the payment for a wedding cake is due in full, 24 hours before delivery. This timeframe is significant because it allows the bakery adequate time to finalize the order, prepare the cake, and address any last-minute adjustments or requests from the customer. Paying in full before delivery also ensures that the bakery can secure its revenue for the time and resources spent on creating the cake, thereby minimizing the risk of cancellations or no-shows.

The other options suggest different payment structures or schedules. For example, paying in full 48 or 24 hours before delivery both ensure that the bakery has received full compensation, but the timeframe they propose may not be feasible in terms of logistical planning and resource allocation required for such a specialized product. Similarly, paying only half upfront or a smaller percentage does not guarantee the bakery the financial assurance needed to proceed with production confidently, especially for a wedding cake, which is typically more intricate and time-consuming to prepare. Each of these alternatives may complicate the order processing and management of the bakery significantly more than the straightforward full payment 24 hours prior.