While dozens of beautifully decorated cookies are the heart of what we do, let’s be honest—they’re also labor intensive and not always the most profitable part of the business. The real growth (and higher margins) often come from thinking outside the box—or in my case, outside the cookie cutter.

The Narwhal Birthday Party that Changed Everything

A mom reached out about hosting a cookie decorating birthday party for her daughter. The theme? Winter animals. She asked if one of the shapes could be a narwhal, even saying that she doubted that cookie cutter existed. Thanks to Cookie Design Lab, I was able to surprise her by making not just a narwhal cutter, but also custom cutters for a polar bear and a penguin in a matching style.

Here’s the best part: I didn’t need design software experience, complicated CAD programs, or an expensive designer. I simply found an image I liked on Canva, uploaded it to Cookie Design Lab, and within minutes had an STL file ready to 3D print. I even gave the custom cutters to the birthday girl as a gift—and she and her parents absolutely loved them.

Not only did the mom rave about the party, but she also said she’d recommend me to anyone looking for a decorating event. That’s the kind of word-of-mouth marketing you just can’t buy.

Why Private Cookie Parties Are a Game Changer

Most cookie decorators already know that public classes are a profitable addition to their business. Group cookie decorating classes can bring in higher margins than selling cookies, since you cut out the most time-consuming step - decorating the cookies. But I’ve found that private decorating parties are also in high demand—especially for children’s birthdays—and they’re a perfect way to offer something unique that not every baker provides. When I started receiving requests, I knew I had to build a clear package structure.

I offer three packages at Sugarcoated Bakery and they’re all priced the same - my minimum for such a party:
Bite-Sized Bash: Our smallest party package is perfect for incorporating cookie decorating into your party, while leaving time for lots of other activities.

  • 30 minutes of cookie decorating

  • 2 cookies per child (shapes of your choice)

  • 2 icing colors (in sharing-size bags)

  • All tools & extras provided

  • Boxes to take cookies home

  • Additional attendees: $35/each

Frosted Fiesta: Our medium party package is great for a party that is mostly about cookie decorating, while still leaving time for another craft, gift opening, or cake.

  • 45 minutes of cookie decorating

  • 3 cookies per child (your choice of shapes)

  • 3 icing colors (sharing-size bags)

  • All tools & extras provided

  • Boxes to take cookies home

  • Additional attendees: $50/each

Sugarcoated Shindig: If you want the majority of your party time to be spent decorating (and eating!) cookies, this is the package for you. It’s our longest and most hands-on party option, and includes Sugarcoated staying to assist with clean-up.

  • 90 minutes of cookie decorating

  • 6 cookies per child (your choice of shapes)

  • 3 icing bags per child

  • All tools & extras provided

  • Boxes to take cookies home

  • Additional attendees: $85/each

  • Special gift for the birthday child

  • An extra decorated cookie for each child

Not sure where to start with deciding your minimum? I recommend checking out other local businesses that offer children’s birthday party packages. I looked at a trampoline park, swim school, indoor play place, and paint bar to see what parents were used to paying and made sure that I priced accordingly.

The Role of Cookie Design Lab

Cookie Design Lab has been a game-changer for this part of my business. Instead of telling clients “no” when they request niche cookie shapes, I can say “yes” every time. Custom cutters:

  • Add value and delight clients.

  • Differentiate your business from others who rely on cutter shops.

  • Allow me to create cohesive sets instead of mashing up cutters from various cutter shops that have different styles.

  • Means I can take last minute requests (and potentially charge more) because I can design the cutters in minutes and print them in just a couple hours.

By giving clients exactly what they imagine—even if it’s a narwhal—you’re not just baking cookies. You’re creating experiences, memories, and gaining a reputation for going the extra mile.

First time at the blog? Welcome! My techy husband and I - the baker wife - are the duo behind Cookie Design Lab - the premier web app for creating custom cookie cutters with absolutely no experience (it was made for me, so I know!). Cookie Design Lab lets you drop in any image, picture, or word and instantly make a STL file to 3D print cookie cutters at home.  You can also make stamps and embossers. Plus we have unique features like background removal and a library. See CDL in action in our YouTube channel, explore our website and FAQs, and email us at [email protected] for a free one week trial!