IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR DECORATOR WHEN ASKING FOR A QUOTE ON YOUR CAKE

When you are given a quote on a cake, there are a couple of important facts that you need to know before you can compare prices.

Firstly, do they make their cakes totally from scratch or do they use commercially prepared bulk pre-mix?

I refuse to use bulk commercially prepared cake mixes that are laden with dozens of preservatives, anti-mould agents, artificial colours and lots of other nasties to prolong shelf life.

Secondly, what do they coat their cakes with before applying the final layer of fondant? Do they use chocolate ganache or buttercream, or is the fondant applied directly to the cake with no further preparation?

Both of these issues are going to make a huge difference to the taste and texture of your cake. 
Quality cakes are not a cheap item to produce. You need to be sure that you are getting the best product available for your money.