Wedding cakes come in all shapes, sizes and prices. So, how are you going to decide on one cake when there are literally thousands of designs, frostings, and fillings to choose from? Before you get overwhelmed, realize that there are some practical elements to consider that will help you narrow down your choices.
The first and most important thing to decide when choosing a cake is how much of your budget you are going to allot for this edible, sometimes extravagant decoration. The average wedding cake costs about 500 dollars and is generally priced by the slice.
The final cost of the cake is determined by time and labor, design, number of tiers, icing and filling choice, decorations and method of delivery. If you are on a specific budget, then you will want to be careful not to choose an elaborate cake from a bridal magazine that will take a significant amount of time for the bakery to reconstruct. A good idea is to show the bakery the cake and to ask them what they could do to make a similar design.
Another practical factor when choosing a cake is the choice of frosting, which can affect price, delivery and design. Butter cream and royal icings are less expensive, but could melt or get crushed in transit. Fondant however, is more durable, but also more expensive. At the same time, fondant is used on most designer cakes and can be molded to just about any idea the bride or baker can dream up. Fondant is also an important choice when you are planning to have the cake displayed outside during a summer wedding, as butter-cream tends to melt.
Considering how many guests will be attending the wedding should also help you to determine how many tiers and types of layers you will be having. If you are planning on accommodating 200-300 guests you may want to have a three tiered cake but order two sheet cakes so that you will have enough to go around. Many couples will decide to have different cake and filling flavors on each tier, which will allow for variety and taste preferences. Another traditional thing is for couples to have the smallest tier to keep for themselves. Many newlyweds like to freeze the top tier and eat it on their first anniversary to remember their special day.
Finally, be sure to arrange a cake tasting with your baker, as they will be able to help you decide on flavors based on your preferences. Not only is this fun, it’s a tasty way to spend an afternoon.