The Biggest Wedding Cake Dos and Don'ts

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If or not a wedding cake is the least of the concerns or large about the”must-obsess-over” listing, our guide to getting the ideal cake gets you covered. From budgeting to selecting your tastes, we are likely to answer all your concerns –before you have some.

Do not select a cake till you’ve created your important wedding fashion choices

You will want a cake that is compatible with the expression of your place, the season, your wedding gown, the flower arrangements along with the menu. Arrive in your cake appointment ready –you do not have to get a whole sketch hand, but understanding of fundamental conditions will make it easier for everybody. And when you’re searching for a custom made layout, bring together inspiration, like a swatch of lace out of your dress or an image of your wedding china.

The wedding cake is generally priced by the slice

The price may vary, but it usually ranges from $3 to $30 a piece (and outside ). It is simple to be wooed by blood sugar filling plus a multi-flavor cake once you are making decisions using a sugar buzz, but using a deal on your budgetand understanding what’s going to impact it–will make it possible for you to reevaluate your choices. For example, more tastes equals more cash; the more complex the taste, the larger the cost; handmade sugar flowers will add dollars to each piece; and fondant icing is normally more expensive than buttercream.

Do fit the cake height into your area

Your cake must match the space also –if your reception is at a grand ballroom, consider increasing the cake’s stature with columns between the tiers, or opting for a faux Styrofoam coating (nobody will understand!) To add height.

Do not opt for the taste based on what everybody else needs

If you meet with potential bakers, flavor a great deal of tastes. Do not be scared to stray from chocolate and vanilla. And do not forget to sample fillings also –lots of bakers are operating with complicated flavorings, such as guava and mango or hazelnut and mocha.

But if you like the smooth, virtually surreal-like appearance of fondant, consider frosting the cake in buttercream first and then adding a layer of fondant over the whole confection. Whatever kind of icing you choose, stick with colours your guests may wish to eat. If your wedding sunglasses are green and blue, elect for a white cake with vibrant green-frosted accents.

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.

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-molded flowers and lace points—will raise the rate. (For the record, we think it’s worth the cost.)

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.

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.

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. A round table is perfect for circular cakes, but a linear design may call for a rectangular table. Drape the table with sumptuous fabrics and decorate it with motifs, colors and flowers to match the cake and your wedding style.

Don’t forget to eat your cake

Couples often don’t get a chance to eat their own wedding cake (besides the bite you feed each other). Ask your caterer to save some extra for you. Share it with your new spouse postwedding for a late-night snack or as postwedding brunch dessert.

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 flavor 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 baggie.