When You Wish Upon a Slice...
Wedding cakes may be expensive, but they’re also personal statement pieces. They’re a huge part of the planning process and deserve just as much time and detail as the gown. To help you nab the perfect one, here are 10 dos and don’ts for the big day.
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1. Not Enough Research
It isn’t a race to your wedding day. Proper planning can take upwards of a year or more, which includes finding the right baker. The right wedding cake won’t happen without due diligence in researching the best bakery or decorator.
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2. Dark Frosting Colors
Fall and winter weddings often lean on a darker pallet, but your cake shouldn’t match the burgundy napkins. Darker frosting lingers on people’s mouths and that’ll make for some interesting photos.
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3. Getting The Wrong Amount
Once your guest list and venue are nailed down, speak with the designer about cake size. The more details you provide, the better an idea you’ll both have about how much you actually need. Now’s also a good time to let them know if you plan to save the top tier.
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4. Ordering Late
Wedding cakes are far from homemade desserts—they’re works of art that require proper time and care. Reputable designers will also have jam-packed schedules, so book a consultation sooner rather than later.
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5. Not Getting a Professional Baker
We’re sure your friend is a terrific baker, but it’s best to go with the pros. Friends should enjoy your big day without the added stress of contributing. You also don’t want any tiffs should something go wrong.
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6. Having Too Many Flavors
The last thing you want is to spend all that time and money on an unappetizing cake. Though guests will hardly complain about a layer of lemon curd, their stomachs may resist multiple clashing flavors. Keep it simple and keep it tasty.
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7. Skipping Personal Details
From hilarious cake toppers to hand-painted tiers, never shy away from personal touches. Your wedding is your own and what better way to tell your story than on one of the biggest focal points?
8. Leaving the Table Bare
Wedding cakes often speak for themselves, but it’s still nice to embellish the table. You don’t need to go crazy with decor, but anything from flowers to framed photos can help it truly stand out.
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9. Cutting it Yourself
We’re not bashing the ceremonial first cut. We are, however, suggesting that you designate a cutter afterward. With 100 guests anxiously awaiting their slice, the right person efficiently handles distribution so the couple can mingle.
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10. Not Having a Slice
You spent all that money and won’t even have a piece? We don’t think so! Wedding cakes are just as much for you as they are for guests, so be sure to indulge.
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Now that we’ve covered wedding cake donts, let’s dive into what makes couples say, “I do!”
1. Have a Budget
Cost depends on a lot of factors, but the average cake costs several hundred dollars. It’s good to have a budget beforehand so you don’t deviate too much or demand the world of your designer.
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2. Cut Out The Inspo Pics
Wedding cakes are like wedding dresses—walk in with too much inspiration and you’ll confuse everyone. Designers have a much easier time creating your vision once you narrow down your mood board.
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3. Ask the Right Questions
Don’t just hire any ol’ cake designer. Get into the nitty gritty and inquire about price, delivery, inspiration, and schedule. The right designer will walk you through their process to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible.
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4. Save It for Later
We know you’re excited, but don’t get ahead of yourself. Wedding cake designs come after the venue and color scheme. Once you’ve finalized overarching themes, your designer can then pinpoint exactly how to make your dream a reality.
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5. Don’t Follow Trends
Let trends spark inspiration, not guide you to the status quo. Wedding cakes are the perfect canvas for customization and trends often monopolize those personal touches.
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6. You Won’t Please Everyone
There’s a reason they call it “your day.” Trying to appease everyone usually spells disaster, so just stick with what you like. No guest will complain about an evening of free food, drinks, and cake—and if they do, it’s a poor reflection on them.
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7. Ensure Proper Delivery
No one wants to see their delectable masterpiece on the floor, but poor planning leaves a lot of balls in the air. Speak with your venue or cake designer about who handles delivery and make sure the plan is set in stone.
8. Prepare for the Weather
Cake planning doesn’t stop at the design. Location plays a big part in what cake you have and where it’s stored. Rather than abandon your $500 order in the August sun, most outdoor weddings opt for a cool, safe place until it’s time to cut.
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9. Ask for Emergency Supplies
Most decorators have an arsenal of emergency supplies, but it never hurts to request some anyway. Anything from extra frosting and ribbon to scissors and fondant can help with cosmetic emergencies.
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10. Remember Your Guests
Some guests have allergies or food sensitivities, so it’s worth having backup desserts. Anything from a second cake to further planning with your decorator helps ensure each guest has a sweet treat.
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