Wedding Cake Planning Made Simple
Did you know most couples spend between 4% and 6% of their total wedding budget on the cake? That number can feel huge until you break it down into real steps. Below you’ll get a clear roadmap that takes the guesswork out of choosing, tasting, and ordering your cake so you can focus on enjoying the sweet part of your day.
Set a Realistic Budget Early
Start by deciding how much you’re comfortable spending. A good rule of thumb is to allocate around 5% of your overall budget. Once you have a number, ask yourself what matters most: size, flavor variety, or intricate decorations? Knowing your priorities lets you adjust the budget on the fly—spend a little more on flavors you love and keep the design simple, or vice‑versa.
Use a quick calculator: budget × 0.05 = cake budget. If your total wedding budget is £30,000, you have about £1,500 for the cake. Write that amount down and stick to it when you start comparing bakeries.
Pick the Right Baker and Lock Down the Design
Ask friends, browse Instagram, and read reviews to shortlist three bakers. Schedule a tasting with each—most will let you try two or three flavors for a modest fee or even free. Pay attention to texture, sweetness, and how the flavors balance. If a baker’s style matches your vision, ask for a portfolio of past weddings that look similar to yours.
When you’ve chosen a baker, discuss the design details early. Simple sugar roses or a sleek naked cake are usually cheaper than elaborate fondant figures. Decide on tier height based on guest count: a general guide is 1 inch of cake per 10 guests. So for 100 guests, a 10‑inch cake (about 2–3 tiers) works well.
Don’t forget the timeline. Most bakers need at least 4–6 weeks’ notice for a custom cake, and some require a deposit of 30% up front. Mark the deposit date on your wedding checklist to avoid any last‑minute surprises.
Finally, think about serving and storage. If you’re having a large reception, a cake cutter’s estimate is 1 slice per guest plus a few extra for staff. For a 100‑guest wedding, a 2‑tier cake (about 12‑inch top tier, 16‑inch bottom tier) typically yields enough slices. Ask the baker if they can freeze the cake after the event for a “first‑anniversary” slice—many do, and the instructions are simple.
Planning a wedding cake doesn’t have to be stressful. Set a budget, taste a few flavors, lock in a design that fits your style, and give your baker enough lead time. Follow these steps, and you’ll walk away with a cake that tastes great, looks beautiful, and stays within your financial plan.
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