I admit that helping brides do research on the design for their wedding cake is something I really enjoy. The artistic side of me appreciates the skill and time required to create many of the designs we see today and I love making recommendations that tie their entire theme together. The decision, of course, is totally theirs to make, particularly when it comes to selecting the flavor, or flavors, of the cake.
While I love all types of desserts nearly equally, I have to admit that when it comes comparing cookie against cookie, I definitely have favorites. I'm not sure that it was so true with cake until I began to attend tastings with brides, but, boy, can I separate the cream from the milk now! Because I have sampled so many cakes from so many bakeries, I can now discern the nuances between a painstakingly crafted cake made with the freshest ingredients to a mediocre cake and to a box cake. Hands down, the cakes created with fresh ingredients by true bakers have the most pleasurable taste and texture.
However, this extra care and these special ingredients increase the cost of the cake significantly and therefore, not every bride and groom will be able to afford this in their budget. On the upside, since you have most likely not experienced the difference the more expensive cake offers, you're not going to be disappointed in the taste and texture of your cake and neither will your guests.
Here's a list of a few items that can affect the cost of your wedding cake as well as some tips on how to reduce the cost:
1) Size does matter. Don't purchase more cake than you need. You can also consider a smaller cake with another dessert selection.
2) Design and assembly difficulty will have an impact on your bottom line. Clip photos of several different cake designs you like and bring them with you to the tasting. The baker will be able to let you know which will affect the price the most dramatically.
3) Cake flavors can affect price particularly if you begin adding fresh fruit fillings, specialty cream fillings, or extravagant flavors. Don't go crazy, remember, your guests have to eat this!
4) Changing flavors from layer to layer sometimes adds additional cost. Think about it, it is much faster to create a cake from one flavor, one type of filling, and one type of icing.
5) Fondant typically increases cost. There are some bakeries that do an excellent job of creating a fondant look with tasty buttercream icing. However, not all designs are doable in buttercream.
6) Don't forget to inquire about delivery and setup fees as well as rental deposits. Unless you're providing a cake stand or having it displayed on a covered board supplied by the bakery, there will be a charge for that lovely cake stand that your baker offers. (Talk to your planner about creative options!)
How to trim costs:
1) The right wedding planner will make bakery recommendations that fit within your budget and your style.
2) Sheet cakes can sometimes be cut in the kitchen and served to guests as extra cake. However, some bakers will still create a 4" high slice so it looks like the real deal, which means you won't save much money.
3) If you're daring, pick up the cake yourself, saving the delivery fee. This is not advised for cakes requiring setup!
4) As mentioned above, offer less expensive desserts for guests...cookies, fruit, small tarts, bulk petit fours, etc.
5) Chooose a simple design and decorate it with flowers you provide.
6) Consider making the cake look taller with creative elements.
Bottom line is that you don't have to spend a fortune to have a wedding cake that is stunning and delicious. Take a peak at these samples of simple cakes that make a big statement.
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