Shopping for a Wedding Cake
Recently I spoke with a cake designer to get her advice for couples shopping for a wedding cake. She was a fount of wisdom, as I knew she would be. Here is what she suggested.
* If possible, call your designer 6 to 12 months in advance of the wedding date. These dates fill up fast on cake-designers’ calendars, and if you wait much longer than this, you’ll be left with–well, the cake designers that nobody cares to make reservations with.
* Make an appointment to meet with the designer. Those who stop by unexpectedly might be disappointed to find that she’s busy with others (who, of course, did make an appointment).
* Order samples. That’s right, most reputable wedding cake designers will offer free samples if you order a week ahead.
* Let the designer know ahead of time what kind of budget you’ve allocated for the cake. She can then show you things that will fit into your budget.
* If you have a magazine or book picture you’d like to approximate with your cake design, be sure to bring it along on your initial visit with the cake designer.
* The designer can make suggestions as to how many servings you’ll need, but you will need to make the final call. The traditional formula is enough cake for invited guests minus 20%.
* If you’re hiring a caterer, ask if they will cut your cake, and if there is an extra charge. Most cake designers do not offer this service! Make sure you have a serving knife. If you are asking a friend or family member, remember that this is a messy job and maybe you are not honoring them by asking them to work at your wedding.

here u are