Wedding Cake

Whether a wedding cake is the least of your worries or high on the “must-obsess-over” list, my guide to getting the perfect cake has got you covered. From budgeting to picking out your flavours, I’m going to answer all of your questions—before you even have any! Including, what if I don’t like cake….

1. Don’t choose a cake until you’ve made your major wedding style decisions.

You might want a cake that’s compatible with the look of your venue, the season, your wedding gown, the flower arrangements and the menu. Arrive at your cake consultation prepared—you don’t need to have a complete sketch in hand, but knowledge of basic terms will make it easier on everyone. And if you’re looking for a custom design, bring along inspiration, like a swatch of lace from your dress or the colour of your bridesmaid’s dresses

2. Do have a budget in mind.

Wedding cake is usually priced by how many servings. The cost can vary, but it generally ranges from £200 – £1000 (and beyond). It’s easy to be wooed by blood orange filling and a multi-flavour cake when you’re making decisions with a sugar buzz, but having a handle on your budget—and knowing what will affect it—will allow you to prioritise your choices. For instance, more flavours equals more money; the more complicated the flavour, the bigger the price tag; handmade sugar flowers will add £££s to every slice; and fondant icing is generally more expensive than buttercream. Don’t forget to look at places like Waitrose and M&S too as their wedding cakes to order can be cost-effective.

3. Do match the cake height to your space.

Generally, three tiers will serve 50 to 100, and you’ll likely need five layers for 200 or more guests. Your cake should fit the space too—if your reception is in a grand ballroom, consider increasing the cake’s stature with columns between the tiers or opting for a faux Styrofoam layer (no one will know!) to add height

4. Don’t choose the flavour based on what everyone else wants.

Besides being a showpiece, your cake should taste amazing too. When you meet with prospective bakers, taste lots of flavours. Don’t be afraid to stray from vanilla and chocolate. And don’t forget to sample fillings too—many bakers are working with complex flavourings, like guava and mango or hazelnut and mocha

5. Do get the facts on icing.

Buttercream or fondant? Buttercream is often much more delicious. But if you love the smooth, almost surreal-like look of fondant, consider frosting the cake in buttercream first and then adding a layer of fondant over the entire confection. Whatever type of icing you choose, stick to colours your guests will want to eat. If your wedding hues are blue and green, opt for a white cake with subtle green-frosted accents. Naked cakes are becoming more and more popular too and can look stunning.

6. Don’t forget to consider the weather.

If you’re having an outdoor wedding in a hot climate, stay away from whipped cream, meringue and buttercream (they melt). Ask your baker about summer icing options or opt for a fondant-covered cake, which holds up much better against the heat.

7. Do budget for extra details.

When it comes to decoration, adornment costs run the gamut. The most inexpensive option is fresh fruits or flowers that, in some instances, can be applied by your florist for a minimal fee. On the high end are delicate gum-paste or sugar-paste flowers, which are constructed by hand, one petal at a time. But here’s the bottom line: All add-ons—including marzipan fruits, chocolate-moulded flowers and lace points—will raise the rate.

8. Don’t forget to top it off.

There are many beautiful and unique ways to top your cake. If you have an heirloom piece—especially a fine porcelain antique—work with your baker to integrate it into the cake’s design. It can double as your “something old.” Other alternatives include a bouquet of sugar flowers, a cascade of icing ribbons or even a sugar block carved to reveal your new monogram. Look to your locale as well. A cluster of coral can look stunning for a beachside celebration, or try a fondant snowflake for a winter wedding. Or don’t use one at all—some designs look great without a topper.

9. Do have a detailed delivery plan.

Cake delivery takes coordination (and usually a refrigerated van), so give yourself peace of mind and opt to have your cake delivered. Complex cakes may not necessarily arrive in final form, so allow time and space for assembly. And make sure that once the masterpiece is delivered, it has a place at the venue (especially if it requires refrigeration). Bottom line: Discuss all the delivery details with your baker before signing the contract.

10. Do give your cake the spotlight.

Your cake will likely be on display before it’s cut and consumed. You should have a designated, well-lit table that allows the best presentation possible. Make sure you speak to your venue about this.

11. Don’t let freezer burn happen.

Even if you take the most painstaking packaging measures, eating the top tier of your cake on your first anniversary sounds far better than it tastes. Think about indulging on your two-week or one-month anniversary, and treat yourself to a fresh cake in the same flavour when you’ve hit the one-year mark. If you must adhere to tradition, tightly wrap the cake in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container.

12. Don’t forget to eat your cake (seriously!).

Couples often don’t get a chance to eat their own wedding cake on the day. Ask your caterer/venue to save some extra for you. Share it with your new spouse post-wedding for a late-night snack or the next day for brekkie!

13. What about allergies?

If you or your spouse are dairy intolerant, gluten-free or vegan then treat your guests to a cake from a baker that specialise in that type of cake. Chances are they won’t even be able to tell.

 

14. What if we don’t like cake?

Well, it’s your day so don’t have a cake to please everyone else! How about a dessert table instead? Or if you don’t have a  sweet tooth at all why not consider a Pork Pie ‘cake’ or ‘cake’ made from wheels of cheese…the possibilities are endless!

I don’t know about you, but all this talk of cake has made me peckish. I’m off to raid the fridge!