Enhance Your 3-Tier Pillar Wedding Cake With Flowers

A 3-tier pillar wedding cake is a great choice for those who want to add height and elegance to their big day. The number of flowers you'll need depends on the type of flower and the overall look you're going for. For a minimalist look, you can space out a smaller number of flowers, while a maximalist look will require plenty of flowers to achieve that filled-to-the-brim effect. Fresh flowers are squishier, so you'll need more than sugar flowers. Sugar flowers are a great choice if you want to avoid the risk of water near the cake. For a 3-tier cake, a cascade with around 8 or 9 flowers can be perfect, but if you're going for a fuller look, you might need 20 or more. The flowers can be arranged between the tiers or around the cake, adding a pop of colour and a romantic, elegant touch.

Using pillars to separate tiers

Using pillars to separate the tiers of a wedding cake is a great way to add height and drama to your creation. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for achieving this effect:

Choosing the Right Pillars

The type of pillars you choose is important for the stability and overall look of your cake. It is recommended to use a two-plate and pillar setup, with pillars that lock onto the legs of the plate. This provides a secure base for each tier. Avoid using clear, pointed pillars that are pushed directly into the cake, as these are not as sturdy. The height of the pillars will depend on the desired height of your cake and the amount of space you want between the tiers for decorations. Pillars typically come in 3", 5", or 7" sizes.

Assembling the Cake

Before assembling your cake, mark the placement of the pillars on each tier. Use a separator plate from the tier above to gently press and mark the icing, ensuring it is centred. Repeat this process for each tier, excluding the top one. Place each tier on its separator plate, securing it with icing. Position the push-in pillars at the marks and insert them into the tiers until they touch the cake board. Start with the tier above the base and place the feet of the separator plate on the pillar openings. Continue adding tiers in the same way.

Using Flowers

Flowers can be used to fill the space between the tiers and add colour to your cake. Gumpaste flowers are a popular choice, as they can be made in advance and placed around and between the pillars. Fresh flowers can also be used, but ensure they are food-safe and carefully washed before use. You can also use a combination of fresh and gumpaste flowers for a fuller look.

Transporting the Cake

When transporting a tiered cake with pillars, it is best to assemble the cake on-site to avoid any damage during travel. If you must transport it assembled, use a sturdy cake stacker system with a centre dowel for added stability.

Additional Tips

• Always use cake boards between the tiers for added support, especially for larger or heavier cakes.
• Chilling the cake before assembly can help prevent leaning or wobbling.
• If using dowels, place them in a circular pattern towards the centre of the cake, leaving 1-2 inches free around the outside.
• For extra stability, use a cake stand designed to fit the specific cake sizes.
• Practice assembling the cake beforehand to familiarise yourself with the process and ensure a smooth setup on the day.

Flowers made from gumpaste

Gumpaste is a special sugar dough used to make sugar flowers. It contains edible gums such as Tylose or CMC, which enable the paste to be rolled thinly, creating lifelike sugar flowers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make flowers from gumpaste:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup egg whites
• 2 tbsp Tylose or CMC powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable shortening
• 1 tsp clear vanilla extract
• 125 grams powdered sugar for kneading

Method:

• In a bowl, mix 2 cups of powdered sugar.
• Make a space in the centre and add egg whites, salt, and vanilla extract.
• Mix well until there are no lumps.
• Add Tylose or CMC powder and mix for a minute or two until sticky.
• Gradually add more powdered sugar until you are able to form a ball. Do not add too much, as the gum paste can dry out.
• Transfer the mixture to a working board and knead in the vegetable shortening.
• You want the mixture to be soft and slightly sticky. You can add more powdered sugar later if needed.
• Divide the paste into small portions and wrap them well in plastic wrap/bag.
• Place them in a ziplock bag and put it into an airtight box.
• Let the gumpaste rest in the fridge overnight, then let it rest at room temperature the next day.
• Before using, knead the gumpaste with a little vegetable shortening and powdered sugar if needed.

Now you are ready to start creating your sugar flowers! Remember to always keep unused gumpaste covered to prevent it from drying out. When drying gumpaste flowers, avoid touching them too often and switch sides to speed up the drying process.

Fresh flowers

When determining the number of fresh flowers needed for a 3-tier pillar wedding cake, consider the size and fullness of the flowers, as well as the desired look. For a minimalist look, you may need fewer flowers and can space them out, whereas a maximalist look will require more flowers to achieve a filled-to-the-brim effect.

The size of the cake tiers will also impact the number of flowers needed. For example, if you have a 3-tier cake with 6", 8", and 10" layers, each about 4-5 inches high, you may want to use 3 small flowers on the 6" tier, 4-5 small to medium flowers on the 8" tier, and 5-6 medium to large flowers with some smaller ones to fill the gaps on the 10" tier. This would total around 12-15 flowers for a nice full arrangement.

If you want to add more flowers to the top of the 6" tier or create a cascading effect, you will need additional blooms. You can also incorporate leaves, either sugar or edible ones like mint or rosemary, to fill in any gaps and create a more natural look.

When arranging the flowers, consider the shape of the cascade. You can circle the entire cake with flowers, create a straight line from the top to the bottom, or go for a snaking cascade along the front. For a simple and elegant look, you can also place a single flower or a small bouquet between each tier.

Using a two-plate system

When creating a 3-tier pillar wedding cake, it is recommended to use a two-plate system for stability. This system involves using two plates with pillars in between them to separate the tiers. The plates have 'feet' that fit into the openings in the pillars, providing a secure structure.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tiers

Before assembling the cake, ensure that your cake tiers are completely chilled. This will make the assembly process easier and help the cake hold its shape.

Step 2: Prepare the Plates and Pillars

You will need two plates and pillars for each tier you want to separate. The pillars come in different heights, typically 3", 5", or 7" tall. Choose the height that best suits the size of your cake tiers and the amount of space you want between them for the flowers.

Step 3: Assemble the First Tier

Place one plate on top of the first cake tier with the 'feet' facing up. Fit the pillars onto the 'feet' of the plate, making sure they are secure.

Step 4: Add the Second Tier

Place the second cake tier on top of the pillars. You may need to use a spacer or a cake board cut to the size of the second tier to help you get the right height.

Step 5: Secure the Second Plate

Place the second plate on top of the second cake tier, with the 'feet' facing down towards the cake. The 'feet' should fit securely into the openings in the pillars.

Step 6: Repeat for Additional Tiers

If you have more than two tiers, repeat steps 3 to 5 for each additional tier.

Step 7: Arrange the Flowers

Once your cake structure is assembled, it's time to add the flowers. You can use fresh or gumpaste flowers for this. Arrange the flowers around and between the pillars, filling the space between the plates. If using fresh flowers, make sure to use non-toxic stems and place them in a drinking straw before inserting them into the cake.

Step 8: Final Touches

Check that your cake is stable and securely assembled. You can add any final touches, such as a cake topper or additional decorations, as desired.

By following these steps and using the two-plate system, you can create a beautiful and stable 3-tier pillar wedding cake with flowers. This system ensures that your cake is securely stacked and provides a lovely display for your floral arrangements.

How to transport a tiered cake

A 3-tier pillar wedding cake can be a stunning centrepiece for a wedding. If you're wondering how many flowers you'll need, it depends on the size of the cake and the flowers used. A good rule of thumb is to use flowers that are in proportion to the cake, with enough to fill the space between the tiers and create a beautiful display.

Now, onto the important part: transporting a tiered cake. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your cake arrives safely and securely:

Prepare the Cake for Transport:

Before you begin, ensure your cake is chilled. Cold buttercream acts as armour for the cake, preventing fingerprints and helping it hold its shape during transport. It's also important to properly dowel the cake tiers. Use wooden dowels for support, cutting them evenly and inserting them into the cardboard cake circles that support each tier. Finally, assemble the tiers at home rather than on-site to reduce the risk of accidents.

Use a Sturdy Cake Box:

Place the cake on a cake drum or heavy-duty cake board that fits perfectly inside a sturdy cardboard box. The box should be the same width as the cake drum and tall enough to accommodate the cake's height. Securely tape up the short sides and cut one tall side open to create a door for sliding the cake in and out.

Prepare Your Vehicle:

Reserve a flat, stable place in your vehicle for the cake, such as the floorboard of an SUV or a similar vehicle with a large, flat back. Avoid placing the cake on laps or car seats, as they are unstable and slanted. If the floor of your car is smooth, use a non-stick liner or a textured yoga mat to prevent sliding.

Keep the Vehicle Cool:

Even if the cake doesn't require refrigeration, maintain a cool temperature in your car during transport. Keep the air conditioner on and avoid direct sunlight. If you're travelling for more than an hour, consider picking up the cake the day before and freezing it, then thawing it slowly overnight.

Drive with Caution:

Send two people to transport the cake if possible. Drive slowly and carefully, avoiding sharp turns and speed bumps. Have one person sit next to the cake box to hold it steady during the journey.

Final Touches at the Venue:

Save the cake stand for the venue rather than transporting the cake on it. Place the cake on the stand once you arrive, and make any necessary touch-ups with extra frosting and decorating tools. Ensure the cake is displayed in a safe and secure location.

By following these steps, you can confidently transport your tiered cake, ensuring it arrives in perfect condition.

Frequently asked questions