"Piece of cake!" said no one ever when selecting a baker for what very well may be the most important dessert of their life.
We're talking about wedding cakes, folks!
They come in all different shapes, colors, sizes, and of course, flavors, and choosing the mastermind behind this confectionery piece of art for your big day may seem a bit overwhelming.
Cake baking and decorating is truly an art form, and every baker has their own artistic style and process. Deciding upon your cake vendor is like commissioning a painter to create the perfect piece to adorn the archway in the foyer of your dream home.
Understandably so, there are a lot of factors to take into consideration. Would you prefer buttercream frosting or fondant? How about flower appliques or ribbons? Are you thinking sky-high tiers or simple sheets?
With endless possibilities, the process can be daunting. But it doesn't have to be so complicated.
Here are some key points to consider when beginning your search for the Van Gogh of cake creations.
Peek the Portfolio
Like many other wedding vendors, bakers will likely have an online portfolio for you to assess before booking a meeting. Review pictures of the baker's previous creations to see if their baking and decorating style matches your vision.
You'll likely notice patterns within the gallery of photos. For instance, one baker may showcase their buttercream handiwork with pictures of cakes sporting delicate, elegant floral designs. Another may highlight their fondant skills by displaying cakes with decorative bows that exude a classy, sophisticated feel.
Beware of Your Budget
Although cake pricing is unfortunately not very consistent, it is essential to prepare a budget. Note that bakers generally price cakes per serving, with an average rate of $5 per slice. The more intricate the design, the more expensive the cost due to the amount of time it takes the baker to complete.
Nonetheless, there are still ways to achieve your desired design and remain within budget by opting for less costly, premade decorations such as figurines or natural flowers. In this case, the baker will save time creating said elements out of sugar and ultimately save you money without sacrificing the coveted effect.
Take a Taste
Cake tastings are undeniably one of the most memorable moments of the wedding planning process. I mean, who doesn't like to sample countless flavors of cake? At your tasting, don't be afraid to ask questions. Now is your chance! Use this time to negotiate the details of your dream dessert according to your favorite flavor, color, and design palettes.
With these guideposts, you're sure to simplify the process of finding your wedding cake baker and ease any worries that may be ailing you. But, if you're still having some trouble, don't just sit around playing patty cake. Book a consultation with a wedding professional today to help you find the baker that will bring your sweetest dreams to life.