Hanging Wedding Cakes: A Step-By-Step Guide To Success

Hanging wedding cakes are a unique and eye-catching way to present a cake at a wedding. They are a relatively new trend, having been popular in the USA for a few years. Hanging cakes are suspended from a stand, which must be tall enough to hang the cake from, but small enough to stand on a table. The stand must also be stable and able to carry the weight of the cake. Hanging cakes can be separated with flower separators or stacked, and the design can be adapted to the wedding theme and colours.

How to source an appropriate stand

When it comes to hanging wedding cakes, the stand is a crucial component. It needs to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some key considerations when sourcing an appropriate stand:

Firstly, the stand must be able to support the weight of the cake. This is a critical factor, as the stand will be bearing the entire weight of the cake. The weight of a wedding cake can vary depending on its size, the number of tiers, and the density of the cake layers. It's important to know the approximate weight of your cake before selecting a stand.

Secondly, the stand should be the right size. It needs to be small enough to fit on the table or surface where the cake will be displayed, but also tall enough to allow the cake to hang at an appropriate height. The height of the stand will depend on the size and design of the cake, as well as the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve.

Stability is another crucial factor. The stand should be sturdy and stable enough to prevent the cake from swaying or tipping over. A stable base is essential to ensure the safety of the cake and to provide peace of mind.

In addition to these functional considerations, the stand should also complement the overall design and theme of your wedding. It should be visually appealing and enhance the beauty of your hanging cake. Consider the colour, material, and style of the stand to ensure it aligns with your wedding's aesthetic.

Lastly, it's important to allow enough time to source the stand. As mentioned by one baker, it can take a considerable amount of time to find an appropriate stand that meets all the necessary criteria. Start your search early and explore various options to find the perfect stand for your hanging wedding cake.

How to make an internal support system

Hanging wedding cakes are a unique and impressive centrepiece for a wedding reception. To create a hanging wedding cake, you will need to create an internal support system to ensure the cake is stable and secure. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make an internal support system for a hanging wedding cake:

• Source an appropriate stand: The stand needs to be able to carry the weight of the cake, be small enough to stand on a table, and tall enough to hang the cake from. It should also be stable and aesthetically pleasing.
• Design the internal support structure: The internal support system should be made of strong, food-safe materials such as stainless steel. Each tier of the wedding cake will need to be carried individually, so ensure the structure can support the weight of each tier.
• Adapt the design to the wedding theme: The internal support system can be customised to match the wedding theme and colours. For example, you can use flower separators between the tiers or stack the tiers for a more traditional look.
• Test and adjust: Before the wedding, test the internal support system to ensure it can safely carry the weight of the cake. Make any necessary adjustments to the structure or stand to ensure stability.
• Set up the cake: On the day of the wedding, set up the cake on location, ensuring it is ready for the grand reception entrance. Leave a step-by-step guide with the venue's function coordinator in case any issues arise.

By following these steps, you can create a stunning and secure hanging wedding cake that will wow the wedding guests.

How to adapt the design to your wedding theme

Hanging wedding cakes are a unique and impressive way to display your wedding cake. If you want to adapt the design to your wedding theme, there are a few things you can do.

Firstly, consider the colours of your wedding theme and incorporate them into the cake design. You can also add decorations that match your theme, such as flowers or other embellishments. If you're having a more traditional wedding, you might want to opt for a classic white cake with subtle hints of your wedding colours.

Another way to adapt the design is to choose a stand that complements your theme. The stand should be pretty, but also functional, as it needs to be able to carry the weight of the cake and be stable. You can find stands in various materials, such as metal or wood, and in different styles, such as modern or rustic.

If you're having a hanging cake, you can also choose to separate the tiers with flower separators or stack them for a more traditional look. A stacked cake might be a better option if you want to include a water fountain, as this can be a stunning addition to your cake display.

Finally, don't forget that the cake can be cut and served like a regular cake, so you can also adapt the flavours and fillings to your theme. Whether it's a traditional fruit cake or a more modern flavour, the cake can be tailored to your taste and the overall theme of your wedding.

How to cut a hanging cake

Hanging wedding cakes are a unique and impressive centrepiece for a wedding reception. They are often designed to be cut like a normal cake, but there are a few things to keep in mind when preparing to cut a hanging cake.

First, it is important to ensure that the cake is securely hung and stable. This may involve using a stand that is pretty, yet strong enough to carry the weight of the cake. The stand should also be small enough to stand on a table but tall enough to hang the cake from.

Second, the cake itself should have an internal support system. This can be made of stainless steel, with each tier of the cake carried individually. This will ensure that the cake does not collapse when cut.

If the hanging cake is small, the baker may provide a step-by-step guide on how to cut and serve it. For larger cakes, the baker may even return to the venue to assist with the dismantling and serving of the cake.

Overall, while hanging cakes may look impressive, they can be cut and served in a similar way to traditional wedding cakes with the right preparation and guidance.

How to dismantle a hanging cake

Hanging wedding cakes are a popular choice for couples who want something a little different for their big day. They are usually supported by a stand that is both pretty and stable, and can carry the weight of a multi-tiered cake.

To dismantle a hanging cake, the process is similar to that of a regular cake. If it is a small hanging cake, the baker will usually leave a step-by-step guide with the venue's function coordinator. If it is a larger cake, the baker may return to the venue to assist with the dismantling.

The cake can be separated with flower separators or stacked, depending on the design. Each tier of the cake is carried individually, as they have their own internal support system.

It is important to note that hanging cakes should only be cut once they have been safely dismantled and are on a stable surface.

Frequently asked questions