Building the Perfect Wedding Cake
By Terry Smedley
Whether you prefer a towering six-tier confection or a simplistic couple’s cake, choose the dessert that’s best for your day.
Should I steer clear of any frostings or finishes if I’m hosting an outdoor reception?
If you are having an outdoor reception during the hot months, try to steer clear of buttercreams that contain ingredients that can’t take the heat like cream cheese.
What’s the key to making a naked-style cake wedding worthy?
Most people who select naked cakes do so not because of the look of the cake (although most do love the simplicity), but because they aren’t a fan of frosting. They love that they can have more cake, less frosting and with the addition of floral or some decorative elements have a beautiful cake that tastes good.
My future husband and I aren’t really fans of cake. Do we still need to have one? What are my other options?
Oh heavens no, there are no hard and fast rules! Dessert buffets are hot right now. They are a fabulous alternative to cake or to supplement cake for your guests. The benefit of a dessert buffet is your guests get a variety of choices for their desserts, and can be designed to coordinate with and complement your reception.
What information should I have ready for our cake consultations?
Do your homework! Before you book a consultation, ensure the company provides the type of cake you are looking for. A baker may specialize in old fashioned cakes or naked cakes, so don’t ask them to create a cake style they don’t generally offer. Be prepared to leave a photo of your inspiration cake with the baker after your consultation.
Cake toppers: are they a thing of the past?
Cake toppers are making a comeback, but not necessarily the traditional bride and groom. More often you may see custom laser cut toppers that express the sentiments of the couple, such as “To the Moon and Back” or “Mr. and Mrs.” or clever custom cake toppers showcasing the couple and their interests.
I love the look of real flowers on a cake. Are they really safe to include?
Many flowers are in fact edible. Check with your florist to ensure that whatever they are providing for your cake is safe and organic. While all flowers are a treat to see, some ought to come with a warning label. The most common poisonous wedding flowers include lily of the valley, hydrangeas, stargazer lilies, angels trumpet, oleander and delphinium. If your preferred florals appear on this list, fret not. Consider adding faux tiers to the cake. These tiers blend with the design of the rest of the cake, often covered in identical fondant or completely in flowers.
What are the hot trends?
We’re seeing personalization of cakes. Taking on themes from hot TV shows, to sports teams and comic book heroes. Flavor pairings are also trending. Creative options include Nutella, tequila and lime, orange and champagne, peaches and cream, caramel apple and almond amaretto just to name a few.
