Picking Up Wedding Cake: A Day Before Collection?

Picking up a wedding cake the day before the wedding is possible, but there are a few things to consider. Firstly, check with the baker about the measurements and refrigeration requirements of the cake. Find out if the cake needs to be refrigerated and ensure that there is space available at the venue. If the cake is not refrigerated, it is best to pick it up on the same day as the wedding to avoid it from going stale. Transporting the cake also requires careful planning. It is recommended to use a sturdy cake box and a flat surface in the vehicle, avoid placing the cake on laps or car seats, and keep the vehicle cool during transportation.

Transporting a wedding cake

Check with the Baker:

Start by consulting the baker to obtain their transportation recommendations and specific requirements. Obtain the cake's measurements, including its dimensions and weight, to ensure your vehicle has sufficient space. Inquire about refrigeration requirements. Buttercream cakes, for instance, should not be left at room temperature for too long, as the butter can melt, affecting the cake's appearance.

Use Appropriate Packaging:

The cake should be placed on a sturdy cake drum or a thick cake board, preferably with a wooden dowel securing the cake to the board. This prevents the cake layers from sliding. Then, place the cake and drum inside a sturdy cardboard box that fits it snugly. This will protect the cake during transport.

Prepare Your Vehicle:

Allocate a flat and stable surface in your vehicle for the cake, such as the floorboard of an SUV. Avoid placing the cake on laps or car seats, as they are unstable and slanted. If your car floor is smooth, use a non-stick liner or a textured yoga mat to prevent sliding. Ensure there is enough room for the cake box and avoid placing it in deep containers, as removing it can damage the sides.

Maintain a Cool Environment:

Keep your vehicle cool by using air conditioning, especially on hot days. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can melt the icing. For long trips, consider picking up the cake the day before and freezing it. Then, place it in the fridge overnight to slowly thaw.

Drive with Caution:

It is recommended to have two people transport the cake. One person can sit next to the cake to hold it steady during the drive and turns. Drive carefully, being mindful of speed bumps and sharp turns.

Handle the Cake Stand at the Venue:

Avoid transporting the cake on a cake stand unless you are experienced. Instead, place the cake and its board directly on the stand when you arrive at the venue.

Communicate with the Pickup Person:

If someone else is picking up the cake, ensure they are aware of these instructions and are well-prepared. Share this information with them ahead of time to avoid any last-minute surprises or delays.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that your wedding cake arrives safely and securely, maintaining its beauty and taste for your special day.

Refrigeration requirements

It is important to check with the baker if the wedding cake needs to be refrigerated. If the cake has buttercream, it can get too warm and soft if left at room temperature for too long. This can cause the stacked cake to lose its shape. If the wedding is outdoors, the buttercream could completely melt. Wedding cakes made with fresh fruit, cream, or cheese also need to be refrigerated.

If refrigeration is required, check with the venue to ensure they have space in their refrigerator. If there is no fridge available, you can pick up the cake the day before and store it in your own refrigerator. The cake should be placed in the fridge at the venue a few hours before serving, giving it time to come to room temperature.

If you are travelling a long distance to pick up the cake, ask the baker if it is possible to freeze it for safer transport. Once you arrive at your location, place the frozen cake in the fridge to slowly thaw overnight.

Picking up the cake vs delivery

Picking up the cake yourself or having it delivered are both options for acquiring a wedding cake, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed comparison of the two:

Picking up the Cake:

• Pros: Picking up the cake yourself can save money on delivery fees, especially if the bakery is located close to the wedding venue. It also ensures that you or someone you trust is handling the cake with care during transportation. Additionally, if you have a friend with a suitable vehicle, it can be more convenient than relying on a bakery's delivery schedule.
• Cons: Transporting a wedding cake can be a delicate operation. It requires a flat, stable surface in a cool vehicle, and even then, there is a risk of damage during transport. The responsibility of ensuring the cake's safety falls on you or your designated driver. Another consideration is timing: picking up the cake yourself can be a stressful addition to an already busy day, and you may need to designate a friend or family member to do it, adding to their tasks for the day.

Delivery by the Bakery:

• Pros: Having the bakery deliver the cake ensures that it arrives safely and on time. Professional bakers are experienced in handling and transporting cakes, reducing the risk of damage. This option can save you time and stress, allowing you to focus on other wedding preparations.
• Cons: Delivery services may come with an additional fee, and the timing of the delivery may not always be convenient for your schedule. If the bakery is located far from the venue, they may not offer delivery at all, or the cost may be high.

In conclusion, both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Picking up the cake yourself can save money and give you more control over the process, but it adds responsibility and stress to your schedule. On the other hand, delivery by the bakery ensures safe and timely delivery but may come with additional costs and scheduling constraints. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.

Timing of cake cutting

There's no right or wrong time to cut your wedding cake, but traditionally, the newlywed couple cuts the first slice together as a symbolic gesture and a memorable photo opportunity. This usually takes place shortly after dinner and before the dancing begins.

If you want to avoid leftovers, it's best to cut the cake early so it can be served as dessert. You could cut the cake straight after your first dance, and then the caterers can cut and serve the rest of the cake while guests are finishing dinner.

If you want to save the top tier of the cake for your first anniversary, remember that it needs to be well wrapped and frozen. Some couples opt to order a fresh anniversary cake instead.

If you're picking up your wedding cake the day before, ask the baker if it's possible to freeze it so it can be safely transported. You can then place it in the fridge once you arrive so it can slowly thaw overnight.

Storage and preservation

If you're picking up your wedding cake the day before, you'll need to consider how to store it overnight. Some cakes need to be refrigerated, especially those with buttercream, as the butter can get too warm and cause the cake to get too soft or the icing to melt. Ask your baker about their specific cake. If refrigeration is required, you'll need to check that you have space in your fridge. If not, you could use a freezer, but again, check with your baker first.

If your cake is going to be stored in a fridge or freezer, it's a good idea to cover it with something like Saran wrap to preserve the freshness and protect the decorations.

If your cake doesn't need to be refrigerated, it's still best to keep it in a cool place and out of direct sunlight. If you're transporting the cake, keep the air conditioning on in the car and avoid leaving it in the vehicle for long periods.

For large cakes, you may want to consider a cake drum and a sturdy cardboard box for storage and transportation. A cake drum is a heavy-duty cake board, and your baker may supply one. The cake drum should fit perfectly inside the cardboard box, so the cake won't be damaged during transport or storage.

If you're transporting your cake, it's a good idea to have someone sit next to it during the journey to hold it steady and avoid any damage during turns or over speed bumps.

Frequently asked questions