Wedding Cake Preparation: Your Easy Guide
Your wedding cake should taste amazing and look like a piece of art. Getting it right starts with a few practical steps, not endless scrolling. Below you’ll find the basics you need to move from "I want cake" to "Cake ready on the day".
Set Your Budget and Choose a Baker
First, decide how much of your overall budget you’re willing to spend on the cake. A common rule is 5‑10% of the total wedding cost, but you can adjust based on priorities. Knowing the number gives you a clear price range when you start talking to bakers.
Next, look for a local "fancy baker" or cake artist. Search for portfolios, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from other couples. When you shortlist a few, schedule a quick call to discuss your budget and see if they can work within it. A good baker will be honest about what the money can buy – whether that means a simple tiered cake or a custom sugar‑flower masterpiece.
Ask for a detailed quote that includes flavors, fillings, decorations, and any extra fees for delivery or set‑up. Compare the numbers and choose the baker who matches your style and price point. Remember, the cheapest option may not deliver the quality you need, and the most expensive may add unnecessary flourishes.
Design, Tasting, and Day‑Of Logistics
Once you’ve booked a baker, it’s time to lock down the design. Bring inspiration photos, but be ready to simplify. Too many colors or intricate details can drive up costs and increase the risk of errors. Decide on the cake size by counting your guests – a safe estimate is one slice per guest plus 10% extra for staff and cake cutters.
Schedule a tasting at least two months before the wedding. Try a few flavors and fillings to find the combo that makes your taste buds sing. Most bakers will let you sample a small piece of each flavor for free or a small fee that’s usually credited toward the final price.
After you pick the flavor, confirm the final design. Get a written contract that outlines the cake’s height, tiers, decoration style, and delivery time. Ask the baker how they transport the cake – a sturdy box, a refrigerated truck, and a careful hand are must‑haves.
On the big day, make sure the cake is set up on a stable, level table away from direct sunlight. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony, ask the baker about a shade tent or a protective cover. Have a backup plan in case of weather issues – a refrigerated cooler can keep the cake fresh if the venue gets too warm.
Finally, enjoy the moment. When the cake is sliced, watch the smiles, take a quick photo, and then dig in. With a clear budget, a trusted baker, and a solid plan, your wedding cake will be the sweet highlight of the celebration.
