Wedding Cake Flowers: Who Provides Them?

Flowers are a classic and elegant way to decorate a wedding cake. However, it is important to ensure that any flowers used are food-safe and non-toxic. While fresh flowers are a popular choice, there are concerns about their safety, with some florists and cake makers unaware of which flowers are safe to use. There is also a risk of contamination from dirt, bugs, and pesticides if fresh flowers are not properly cleaned and prepared. Sugar flowers are a popular alternative, offering a food-safe and creative option, but they can be more costly and time-consuming to create. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the cake maker to ensure that any flowers used on a wedding cake are safe for consumption.

The risks of using fresh flowers on cakes

Using fresh flowers on cakes comes with a multitude of risks. Firstly, many popular wedding flowers are toxic and unsafe to put on cakes. Examples of these include gypsophila, eucalyptus, and hydrangeas, which contain cyanide. These flowers can cause irritation, gastrointestinal problems, and even lead to serious illness or death if consumed. Calla lilies, for instance, have small crystals on their stamens that can get into the respiratory system.

Secondly, florists often provide flowers that are not technically "edible" or food-safe. These flowers may be contaminated with dirt, bugs, or pesticides, which can be dangerous if they come into contact with or are consumed with the cake. Even if the flowers are washed, it is challenging to ensure they are entirely dirt and bug-free.

Thirdly, the use of fresh flowers on cakes can break food safety rules and laws. In the UK, for example, floral tape is not considered food-safe due to the glue it contains, and open-ended straws are not permitted as they do not guarantee a seal against sap or pesticides. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK has introduced new legislation with guidelines about which flowers can and cannot be used on cakes, and these guidelines will become law in 2024.

Lastly, there is a risk of miscommunication or misinformation between the cake maker, the florist, and the client. The cake maker may not always be present when the florist delivers the flowers, and the florist may not provide a complete or accurate list of the flowers used. This can lead to toxic flowers being placed on the cake without the cake maker's knowledge, putting customers and the business at risk.

Given these risks, it is essential to exercise caution when using fresh flowers on cakes. It is crucial to research which flowers are edible or non-toxic, properly prepare and clean the flowers, and use appropriate barriers like posy picks to prevent direct contact between the flowers and the cake.

How to prepare fresh flowers for a cake

Preparing fresh flowers for a cake requires several steps to ensure they are food safe and don't cause the cake to wilt. Here is a detailed guide on how to prepare fresh flowers for a cake:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Flowers

Before selecting flowers for your cake, it is crucial to prioritize food safety. Many popular wedding flowers are toxic and should be avoided. Examples include gypsophila (baby's breath) and eucalyptus. Opt for organic flowers that have not been treated with pesticides. If possible, purchase your flowers from a local farmer's market or a trusted source.

Step 2: Washing and Trimming the Flowers

Wash the flowers gently under cold running water to remove any dirt or bugs from the petals and stems. Trim the stems at an angle, leaving about 2-3 inches in length. Pat the flowers and stems dry with a paper towel.

Step 3: Wrapping the Stems

Cut a piece of floral tape, approximately 2-3 inches long. Stretch the tape slightly to activate its stickiness, then wrap it around the stem, especially the bottom portion, to create a barrier between the stem and the cake. This will prevent any flower secretion or fluid from leaking into the cake.

Step 4: Decorating the Cake

Now that your flowers are prepared, it's time to arrange them on the cake. You can loosely plan the placement of the flowers before committing to an arrangement. Insert each flower stem into the cake one by one. For larger bouquets, create a small fondant ball and stick the wrapped stems into it before placing the entire piece on top of the cake.

Step 5: Alternative Methods

There are alternative methods to keep your flowers fresh and prevent them from contaminating the cake:

• Use plastic tubes from the florist, fill them with water, and stick your flowers into them like a vase before submerging into the cake.
• Insert the wrapped stems into clear bubble tea straws or plastic straws cut to size, then place them into the cake. This method is especially useful for positioning flowers at particular angles or attaching them to the sides of the cake.
• Place a cake board on top of the frosted cake and add flowers directly to it. When it's time to serve, simply slide a large offset spatula under the cardboard cake round to remove it along with the flowers.

Step 6: Timing

Fresh flowers should be added to the cake as close to the event as possible, preferably the same day, to ensure they remain vibrant and fresh. Flowers need water to stay fresh, so if added too far in advance, they may wilt.

Sugar flowers as an alternative

Sugar flowers are a fantastic alternative to fresh flowers on wedding cakes. They are made from edible materials, so you don't have to worry about any unwanted substances seeping into the cake. Sugar flowers can be crafted in any colour, to match the wedding theme, and can be customised to replicate any flower type, in any size. They are also not limited by seasonality, so you can have any flower you like, all year round. Sugar flowers are a great way to elevate a simple cake, and they can be kept as a lasting memento of the wedding day.

Sugar flowers are a highly skilled craft, and therefore they can be costly. They are also delicate and need to be handled carefully. It is important to choose an experienced cake designer who is trained in food safety practices when selecting sugar flowers for your wedding cake.

Sugar flowers are a safe, beautiful, and unique option for wedding cakes, but they do come with a higher price tag. If you are looking for a cost-effective alternative to fresh flowers, sugar flowers may not be the best option. However, if you want a truly unique and food-safe floral display, sugar flowers are a great choice.

The best types of flowers for wedding cakes

There are several types of flowers that can be used to decorate a wedding cake. The best type of flower for you will depend on your budget, the season, and the desired aesthetic of your cake. Here are some options to consider:

Fresh Flowers

Fresh flowers are a popular choice for wedding cakes as they are beautiful and budget-friendly. They can also be matched with the rest of the wedding flowers. However, fresh flowers may wilt, especially if they have weak stems, and some varieties may be toxic or sprayed with chemicals or pesticides. Examples of non-toxic fresh flowers that can be used include organically grown roses, herbs, bay leaves, some dahlias, some peonies, jasmine, and marigolds. It is important to properly clean and treat fresh flowers before placing them on a cake to ensure they are food-safe.

Silk or Fabric Flowers

Silk or fabric flowers are generally more expensive and less environmentally friendly than fresh flowers, but they do not wilt and are not toxic. The variety and colour options may be limited, and they may not match the wedding bouquets perfectly. However, they are available all year round, so you can have flowers that may not be in season, like peonies in December.

Wafer Paper Flowers

Wafer paper flowers are a relatively new option that is gaining popularity. They are handmade and can be quite expensive, but they are lightweight, airy, and whimsical. Wafer paper flowers can be made in any colour to match the wedding decor and can be stored and reused after the wedding. They are also less fragile than sugar flowers.

Sugar or Gumpaste Flowers

Sugar flowers are the most expensive option and are very fragile, but they are food-safe and can be made to match any variety or colour of flower. They are also impressive and showcase the cake artist's skill. Sugar flowers may not be suitable for semi-naked or buttercream cakes as they do not like moisture.

The benefits of using fresh flowers on cakes

A Pop of Colour

Fresh flowers can add a beautiful pop of colour to any cake. They are a great way to make your cake stand out and create a lasting impression.

Food Safety

When done correctly, fresh flowers can be both beautiful and food-safe. It is important to research and identify which flowers are edible or non-toxic to ensure they are safe for consumption. This will prevent any potential harm or illness to your guests.

Cost-Effective

Using fresh flowers for wedding cakes is a relatively low-cost option for couples. Sugar flowers or fondant decorations, for example, can be more expensive due to the time and skill involved in creating them.

Creative Freedom

Fresh flowers offer a wide range of options for cake decoration. You can choose from a variety of colours, sizes, and types of flowers to create unique and personalized designs.

Time-Saving

Fresh flowers can be a time-saving option compared to creating sugar or fondant flowers, which can be a labour-intensive process.

Natural Ingredients

Fresh flowers are a natural and organic way to decorate cakes. They are free from artificial ingredients and preservatives, which some guests may prefer to avoid.

Longevity

Fresh flowers can last for 6-8 hours with refrigeration and a few hours at room temperature once inserted into a cake. This ensures that your cake will look fresh and vibrant throughout the event.

Frequently asked questions