The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Dream Wedding Cake
Your wedding day is a one big celebration, filled with love, happiness and unforgettable moments and as you begin the journey of planning your dream wedding, there certainly are a lot of decisions to make. Thinking back to us both planning our own wedding, one of the my favourite things was picking out a wedding cake. It's not just a dessert; it's a wedding centrepiece that symbolises your love and adds a touch of sweetness to your special day. Choosing the right wedding cake isn't easy. It requires careful consideration of your preferences, budget, and overall wedding theme. After all, your cake will be a focal point at your reception, admired by your guests and photographed for cherished memories after the cake has been demolished and enjoyed.
YOUR WEDDING THEME AND STYLE
It looks great when your wedding cake matches with the overall theme and style of your wedding, it's worth having a think about the kind of atmosphere you want to create on the day. Are you planning a romantic, rustic, modern wedding, or a more quirky them? Think about the venue you've chosen, the colour palette you've picked and any décor elements that will be present on your big day. Tying in your wedding cake with the overall theme creates a harmonious and cohesive look.
PERSONAL PREFERENCES AND TASTES
Your wedding cake should reflect your unique personality and tastes as a couple so have a think about the flavours, colours, and design elements that appeal to you. Are you a fan of classic and traditional flavours of cake or would you prefer to try some more adventurous options?
GATHERING INSPIRATION
Finding inspiration is key to picturing your dream wedding cake. Have a look online, check out wedding blogs, Pinterest and Instagram are great resources where you can discover a ton of cake designs and the latest trends. Flick through bridal magazines and attend wedding show for more inspiration. Save images of cakes that catch your eye and create a Pinterest board, it's basically an online scrapbook to help you identify recurring themes and styles that you've liked. Take the time to explore your options and let your imagination soar. Your wedding cake will be a delicious masterpiece that not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds an extra touch of magic to your special day.
SETTING A REALISTIC BUDGET
Before diving into the world of wedding cakes, it's crucial to establish a realistic budget. Determine how much of your wedding budget you are willing to allocate specifically for your cake? Don't forget to take into account other expenses related to your wedding, such as the venue and decorations, then you can allocate an appropriate "portion" for your cake. Remember, the complexity of the design, the size, and the ingredients used are all likely to have an impact on the cost.
GUEST NUMBERS
The size of your wedding cake should be proportionate to the number of guests you are expecting to invite. Consider whether you want to serve the cake as the main event or have additional dessert such as cupcakes and donuts alongside it. Traditionally, a three-tiered cake can serve approximately 50 to 100 guests. However, for larger weddings, you may need more tiers or a separate "overflow" cake so everyone gets a piece on the day or afterwards. Your cake maker will be able to give you an idea of the size vs guest count.
FLAVOURS AND FILLINGS
When it comes to the flavours of your wedding cake, you're spoiled for choice. There's traditional options such as vanilla, chocolate, and fruitcake, all timeless classics. If you're seeking something more unique, consider flavours like lemon elderflower, red velvet, or even a decadent salted caramel. Stay abreast of current trends in the world of cake flavours. While the cake base is important, the filling and frosting play a vital role in taking your cake to another level. Complementary fillings such as raspberry, lemon curd, or decadent chocolate ganache can add an extra layer of flavour and moisture to your cake. Popular choices for frosting include smooth buttercream, velvety cream cheese, or elegant Swiss meringue buttercream. The filling and frosting combinations are endless, so explore different options to find the perfect pairing that will make your taste buds sing.
CAKE TASTING SESSIONS
To fully appreciate the flavours and combinations available out there, it's not strictly essential to take part in a cake tasting session but unless you really don't like cake, then WHY WOULDN'T YOU! Make appointments with prospective cake makers and enjoy sampling their various cake flavours and fillings. Take note of the texture, moistness, and overall taste of each option. Don't be afraid to ask questions or provide feedback during the session either. It's an ideal opportunity to find the perfect balance of flavours and fillings that will make your wedding cake truly unforgettable. Oh and did I mention that you'll get to try free cake!
By exploring a wide range of flavours and fillings, you can ensure that your wedding cake not only looks stunning but also tantalises the taste buds of you and your guests. Embrace traditional choices or venture into more unique and trendy flavours to create a cake that reflects your distinct style and adds a delightful surprise to your wedding day.
Design and Decoration
The design of your wedding cake is a chance to showcase your style and creativity. Start by considering the shape and tier arrangement that best suits the idea of how your wedding theme will look. Classic options include round, and square cakes, or you could even add a modern twist. Think about how the shape and tier arrangement will complement the overall look of your wedding. The icing you choose for your cake can greatly affect its appearance and texture. Popular options include buttercream, fondant, and ganache. Buttercream gives a soft and creamy finish, perfect for a rustic or romantic look. Fondant provides a smooth, polished appearance and is ideal for intricate designs and sugar decorations. Ganache adds a luscious and indulgent feel to the cake so keep in mind the visual effect and taste preferences when selecting the right icing for your cake. To make your wedding cake truly personalised, incorporate your chosen colours, themes, and motifs. Whether it's matching the cake to your wedding colour palette or incorporating design elements from your invitations or floral arrangements, these details will tie everything together beautifully. From delicate lace patterns to modern geometric shapes, there are endless possibilities to make your cake a stunning reflection of your wedding style.
The Finishing Touch
Adding personal touches into your wedding cake design can make it even more special. Consider adding monograms representing your initials, cake toppers that reflect your shared interests or hobbies, or fresh flowers that match your bouquet or centrepieces. These details will not only add a touch of uniqueness but also create a cake that feels authentically "you." The design and decoration of your wedding cake are opportunities to showcase your personality and make a visual statement. By carefully selecting the shape, icing, colours, and personalized touches, you can create a cake that becomes a work of art and a memorable focal point at your wedding reception. Let your imagination guide you, and work closely with your cake-maker to bring your ideas to life.
And considering I usually prefer a brew and a biscuit over cake, I can personally vouch for this one. It’s our not very traditional wedding cake made by the amazing Thoroughly Good Cakes and it was absolutely, seriously delicious..
OR MAYBE DON'T EVEN GO FOR CAKE AT ALL!!
The absolute stuff of nightmares for me this one, I can only eat cheese if it's A. Melted on a Pizza, B. Melted on a Burger or C. A Toastie, otherwise I couldn't be paid to eat the horrible smelly stuff. So pretending that I like non-melted stinky cheese for a second, why have a Cheese Wedding Cake?
Well they can be quite a lot cheaper than a traditional cake, they're not as delicate and therefore not as prone to possible damage, it can always be used as a part of the Wedding Reception Evening Buffet with soanome crackers and a few chutneys. And that's it, that's as many reasons as I can think of personally for having a cheese wedding cake, what about you, can you think of a reason to have a Cheese Cake that isn't a Cheesecake or even a cake at all.
Cake Q's
How long before your wedding should you order a cake?
To avoid disappointment timing matters when it comes to ordering your wedding cake. It's generally recommended to place your order at least 3 to 6 months before the wedding date. This early planning allows ample time for consultations, tastings, and design discussions with your chosen cake baker. Keep in mind that good cake makers may have limited availability, especially during peak wedding seasons, so securing your order well in advance is essential.
What is the most popular type of wedding cake?
When it comes to the most popular type of wedding cake, the classic choice is still the winner: the traditional tiered white cake. However, couples today have more options to reflect their unique tastes. Some popular alternatives include decadent chocolate, red velvet, lemon, or even non-traditional flavors like salted caramel or passionfruit. Consider your personal preferences and discuss flavour options with your cake maker to find the perfect fit for your celebration.
Should you pick up your wedding cake the day before?
While it may be tempting to pick up your wedding cake the day before the big event to check off one task from your to-do list, it's generally advisable to avoid last-minute arrangements. Picking up your cake the day before can increase the risk of mishaps, such as transportation accidents or unexpected damage. Instead, consult with your cake maker to arrange a suitable delivery time on the wedding day itself. This ensures that your cake arrives fresh, intact, and beautifully presented, leaving you stress-free to focus on other wedding preparations.
ow do you decide on a wedding cake?
Deciding on a wedding cake involves several key considerations. Start by setting a budget that allows for both the cake design and the number of guests. Think about your wedding theme or color palette, as well as any specific design elements you want to incorporate. Gather inspiration from sources like wedding magazines, Pinterest boards, or your baker's portfolio. Schedule consultations and tastings with a few cake bakers to discuss your vision, sample their flavors, and assess their expertise and creativity. Pay attention to factors like cake freshness, texture, and overall taste to ensure your cake is both visually stunning and delicious.