Because nothing we make has preservatives, a cake from us behaves a little differently to a shop-bought one. A few habits make a real difference.

• Keep it refrigerated until roughly 20-30 minutes before serving, so the cream softens and the sponge isn't cold and firm.
• Best eaten within two days of delivery.
• Fresh cream and fruit cakes shouldn't sit out in the heat for long, even during the celebration itself.
• If you're transporting it further after delivery, keep it flat and out of direct sun.

If anything about your cake looks or tastes off, tell us the same day with a photo if you can - we'd much rather hear about it directly than have you assume it's normal.