10 Common Mistakes Businesses Make When Ordering Pastries in Bulk
On the surface, ordering pastries seems easy. They’re fun, they’re sweet, and they’re almost always a crowd-pleaser. But the moment you scale that order into the double or triple digits—for a corporate event, team breakfast, client drop-off, or launch—you’re suddenly juggling logistics, timing, storage, preferences, and expectations.
At Two Bakers, we’ve helped businesses across Singapore plan for everything from high-end boardroom catering to staff appreciation treats. Along the way, we’ve spotted some classic missteps that can throw a well-intentioned pastry order off track.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the 10 most common mistakes businesses make when ordering pastries in bulk and how to avoid them.
1. Estimating Quantity on a Whim
“Let’s just get 100 pieces. That should be fine, right?”
Maybe. Maybe not.
A good bulk pastry order starts with an honest headcount and a bit of context. Are you serving these during a 15-minute tea break or over a two-hour breakfast session? Will guests be seated or mingling? Is this the only food provided, or just a treat?
A quick chat with your vendor about expected consumption per person, factoring in event length and time of day can prevent both wastage and shortages.
2. Overlooking Dietary Considerations
You’ve selected the flakiest croissants, the richest brownies, and the most buttery kouign-amanns. But then someone shyly mentions they can’t eat dairy, or that the items aren’t halal.
It happens more often than you’d think.
Don’t assume everyone on your recipient list eats the same way. Always ask about common restrictions—dairy-free, eggless, nut-free, and halal-friendly options are readily available from reputable bakers if requested in advance. Even offering one or two inclusive items shows thoughtfulness.
3. Picking Pastries That Don’t Suit the Setting
Cream puffs and fruit tarts look gorgeous until they start sweating under hot lights at an indoor seminar. Similarly, flaky pastries might make a mess at networking sessions where people are standing with coffee cups in one hand.
Match the pastries to the situation. If utensils aren’t an option, go for finger-friendly bites. If there’s no fridge, avoid custard. If it’s a hot day, choose items that don’t rely on whipped cream to make an impression.
4. Forgetting to Plan for Storage
Picture this: 120 pastries arrive beautifully packaged, and you suddenly realise there’s no space to put them. The pantry’s full, the fridge is packed with juices, and you’re scrambling for table space.
Before confirming your order, check:
Where will the pastries be kept until they’re served?
Do they need refrigeration?
Is there enough flat space to prevent stacking damage?
Even an hour of poor storage can affect freshness and appearance.
5. Assuming Everything Keeps Well Overnight
Pastries are best eaten the day they’re made. While some bakes hold up decently for 24 hours (think banana loaves or financiers), others begin to degrade within hours, especially in a humid city like Singapore.
If you need to serve the next day, let your supplier know. They may suggest a different mix of items better suited for longevity. Don't risk serving stale pastry at an important event.
6. Leaving Orders to the Last Minute
Bakers aren’t magicians. Artisanal pastries, in particular, aren’t whipped up in an hour—they often require fermentation, proofing, and cooling stages that need advance planning.
Some items also need special ingredients that may be ordered in.
Placing your order 1–2 days before an event limits your options and puts unnecessary pressure on your vendor. For bulk orders, give at least 5–7 working days’ notice where possible.
7. Skipping the Tasting Phase
Your event deserves more than a best-guess from an online menu.
Always ask if samples are available, especially for large or first-time orders. Tasting isn’t about indulgence; it’s about ensuring:
The size is appropriate
Flavours align with your audience
Texture and presentation match your expectations
You may find the items are sweeter or smaller than expected or you may fall in love with something new.
8. Underestimating Transport Needs
This is the silent saboteur of many great orders. Everything’s perfect until it hits the car seat.
Pastries aren’t indestructible. Even a short ride across town can jostle delicate toppings or cause slippage. If your team is picking up the order, make sure the vehicle has:
Flat storage space
Cooling (if needed)
Non-slip mats or trays
Better yet, opt for vendors who provide delivery with secure, insulated packing. It saves you the panic and preserves the integrity of your order.
9. Choosing Style Over Substance
Everyone wants their table to look great on camera, but looks don’t always equal taste.
Overly decorative pastries may use shortcuts or stabilisers that don’t taste as fresh. Other times, size can be deceptive: mini cakes might look generous but only offer two bites. Always read the item descriptions and, if in doubt, ask questions about portion size and ingredient quality.
A simple pastry done well often wins more compliments than a fussy one that underdelivers.
10. Going Cheap Without Considering the Trade-Off
There’s nothing wrong with sticking to a budget. But bargain-hunting for pastries often means:
Frozen or factory-made items
Bland flavour profiles
Inconsistent sizing or texture
If you’re ordering for internal morale or client-facing events, consider the impression you’re leaving. You’re not just offering a snack; you’re setting the tone.
Spending a little more for quality often brings better ROI in appreciation, reputation, and repeat orders.
Final Thoughts
Ordering pastries in bulk isn’t something most people do every day. And while it may seem straightforward, the details matter, especially when you’re representing a business or treating your team.
At Two Bakers, we’ve shifted away from our original café model and now focus exclusively on wholesale and corporate clients. That means we understand the scale, expectations, and small-but-important decisions that come with large orders.
We’re here to help you avoid the usual pitfalls and get it right the first time. From helping you build a menu to guiding you on storage, delivery, and presentation—we’re in your corner.
Want to place a wholesale pastry order that makes people smile?
Reach out to our team to discuss your needs, request samples, or lock in your next big delivery.