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Festive Bake Sale

💰 £50-£150 ⏱ Seasonal 📊 Beginner

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What is it?

A Festive Bake Sale is a fun and approachable way for teenagers to raise money by selling homemade festive treats during the holiday season. It works well because it taps into the spirit of giving and celebration, attracting friends, family, and the local community eager to enjoy seasonal goodies.

Why does it work?

People love buying festive treats, especially when they’re homemade and part of a good cause. The social and seasonal atmosphere encourages generous spending, and the personal touch of baking yourself creates a connection that motivates buyers to support your fundraising.

What you'll need

  • Basic baking equipment (mixing bowls, measuring spoons, tins)
  • Ingredients for festive recipes (flour, sugar, spices, chocolate, etc.)
  • Packaging materials (boxes, cellophane bags, ribbons)
  • Tables or stalls for setting up the sale
  • Permission from venue owners or organisers (if selling at school or public events)
  • Labels or signs displaying prices and allergen information
  • Cash box or mobile payment option (e.g., PayPoint, SumUp)

Step-by-step plan

1
Plan your bake sale date and location, ideally close to Christmas or other festive holidays when people are in a giving mood. Popular spots include school events, local markets, or community centres.
2
Choose simple but popular festive recipes like mince pies, gingerbread, chocolate brownies, and decorated cupcakes. Keep recipes manageable so you can bake plenty without stress.
3
Make a shopping list of ingredients and packaging materials. Check your cupboards first to avoid buying things you already have.
4
Bake your treats a day or two before the sale, ensuring freshness. If possible, bake with friends or family to share the workload and make it more fun.
5
Package your treats attractively with festive wrapping and clear labels, mentioning any common allergens like nuts or gluten.
6
Set up your stall or table in a busy area, arrange your treats neatly, and have clear pricing displayed. Bring a cash box and consider offering contactless payments to maximise sales.
7
Engage with customers warmly, explain what you’re raising money for, and encourage repeat purchases or donations.
8
After the sale, count your earnings carefully and thank everyone who helped or bought your treats.

How to advertise it

  • Create colourful posters to put up around school, local shops, and community centres.
  • Use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to announce your sale and share pictures of your baking progress.
  • Ask teachers or community leaders if you can make a short announcement during assemblies or meetings.
  • Send messages or emails to friends, family, and neighbours inviting them to support your sale.
  • Use local community Facebook groups or WhatsApp chats to spread the word.

Realistic earnings

Most teenagers can expect to raise between £50 and £150 from a well-organised festive bake sale depending on the number of treats sold and the location. Larger events or multiple sales can increase this amount.

Top tips

✅ Start baking early to avoid last-minute stress and to perfect your recipes.
✅ Offer a variety of treats, including some for dietary needs like gluten-free or vegan options.
✅ Use festive decorations on your stall to draw attention and create a cheerful atmosphere.
✅ Keep prices simple (e.g., £1 per item) to encourage impulse buys.

Common mistakes to avoid

⚠️ Baking too many or too few treats—try to estimate demand realistically.
⚠️ Ignoring allergen information, which can put customers off and cause health risks.
⚠️ Not having a clear pricing system or suitable payment methods, which can slow sales.
💡 TOP TIP — easyfundraising

Buy your baking ingredients and packaging materials through easyfundraising partner stores online to earn cashback for your fundraising cause.

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