Cookies by Charlotte: Custom Cookies and Cakes in Charleston

What Cookies by Charlotte offers

Cookies by Charlotte is a Charleston-based bakery specializing in custom decorated cookies, cupcakes, and cakes made to order. The shop focuses on hand-decorated sugar cookies for events, celebrations, and everyday occasions, with designs that range from simple monograms to elaborate themed sets. All items are baked fresh and decorated by hand, which means orders require advance notice rather than walk-in purchases.

The bakery operates primarily as a custom order business, so you won't find a display case of ready-made items waiting at the counter. Instead, you work with Charlotte or her team to design exactly what you want—whether that's cookies shaped like your wedding colors, cupcakes for a corporate event, or a tiered cake for a milestone birthday. The shop also offers seasonal flavors and can accommodate dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegan options, though you should confirm availability when you place your order.

Key Takeaways

• Cookies by Charlotte takes custom orders for decorated cookies, cupcakes, and cakes, with designs tailored to your event or preference.
• All items are hand-decorated and baked fresh, so orders must be placed in advance—typically at least one to two weeks depending on the season and complexity.
• The bakery can work with dietary restrictions including gluten-free and vegan requests, but you should discuss these when ordering.
• Pricing varies based on design complexity, quantity, and flavor choices, so contacting the bakery directly gives you an accurate quote for your specific order.

How to place an order

Start by contacting Cookies by Charlotte directly through their website, phone, or social media to discuss what you need. Have a few details ready: the date you need the items, the quantity, the occasion or theme, and any dietary needs. Charlotte or her team will walk you through design options, flavor choices, and pricing during this conversation.

Once you've settled on a design and price, you'll typically need to put down a deposit to hold your order date. The remaining balance is due before pickup or delivery. Most orders require at least one to two weeks' notice, though rush orders may be possible depending on the bakery's current schedule—ask when you call. Pickup is available at the bakery location in Charleston, and delivery to local venues may be an option for larger orders.

Flavor and design options

The bakery rotates seasonal flavors alongside year-round classics like vanilla, chocolate, and sugar cookie. Recent offerings have included flavors like lemon lavender, salted caramel, and red velvet, though the specific menu changes. When you order, you can ask what flavors are currently available or request a flavor that isn't listed—the team may be able to create it depending on timing and ingredients.

Designs range from minimalist (a single initial or date) to elaborate (full-color scenes, custom illustrations, or tiered cake designs). The decorated cookies work well for weddings, baby showers, corporate events, and holidays. If you have a specific image, color scheme, or theme in mind, bring that to your conversation with Charlotte—she can tell you whether it's feasible and what it will cost.

Pricing and deposit information

Cookies by Charlotte's pricing depends on several factors: the number of items, the complexity of the design, the flavors you choose, and whether you need delivery. A simple dozen decorated cookies will cost less than a custom tiered cake with intricate piping and fondant work. There is no fixed price list because each order is custom, so you'll need to contact the bakery for a quote on your specific project.

A deposit is required to reserve your order date, and the amount is typically a percentage of the total cost. The bakery will tell you the deposit amount and payment method when you discuss your order. This protects both you and the bakery—Charlotte reserves ingredients and time for your date once the deposit is received.

Location and contact information

Cookies by Charlotte is located in Charleston. The bakery's exact address, phone number, and hours are available on their website and social media pages. Since this is a custom order business, you should contact them before visiting to discuss your order needs rather than expecting to browse or purchase items on the spot.

The bakery is active on social media, where you can see photos of past orders, seasonal flavors, and design inspiration. Following their accounts is a good way to stay updated on any special offerings or holiday promotions.

Dietary accommodations and ingredient information

Cookies by Charlotte can work with gluten-free and vegan requests, though not every flavor or design option may be available in these versions. If you have a severe allergy or dietary restriction, discuss it when you place your order so the team can confirm whether they can safely accommodate it. The bakery can also provide ingredient lists if you need them for allergy purposes.

Because the bakery works with multiple ingredients and shares a kitchen space, cross-contamination is always a possibility—especially for severe allergies. Be direct about your needs when ordering, and ask the team what precautions they take. They'll give you honest information about whether they can meet your requirements safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance do I need to order?

Most orders require at least one to two weeks' notice. During busy seasons like holidays or wedding season, the bakery may need more time. When you contact them, ask about their current timeline—they'll let you know if they can accommodate a rush order or if you need to wait for an opening.

Can I see examples of past work before ordering?

Yes. Cookies by Charlotte shares photos of previous orders on their website and social media accounts. This is a good way to see the style and quality of their work and to get design ideas for your own order. You can also ask Charlotte to show you examples of work similar to what you're envisioning when you call to discuss your order.

Do you offer delivery?

Delivery may be available for local orders, particularly for larger events. Ask about delivery options and any associated fees when you place your order. Pickup at the bakery is always an option.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my order?

Contact the bakery as soon as possible if your plans change. Cancellation and rescheduling policies depend on how close you are to your order date and how much work has already been done. The team will work with you on the specifics when you call.

Can you recreate a design I found online or in a photo?

Bring the image or description when you order, and Charlotte will let you know if it's something she can recreate. Some designs are straightforward to adapt, while others may need adjustments based on the cookie shape or her artistic style. She'll be honest about what's possible and what alternatives might work.