Planning A Wedding Cake Reception: Tips For Success

A wedding cake isn't just an ordinary cake, it's a one-of-a-kind creation that's been handmade for your special day. So, it's important to think about how to showcase it at your reception. From the timing of the cake cutting to the decorations on the table, there are many ways to make your cake reception memorable. You'll want a cake that's compatible with your wedding theme, season and reception menu. You might also want to consider purchasing favour boxes so that guests can take slices home.

Choosing a cake that fits your wedding theme, season and menu

When choosing a cake for your wedding, it's important to consider how it will fit with the theme, season and menu of your special day.

If you're having a vintage-style wedding, for example, you might want a cake with buttercream icing to match the retro feel. If you're having a classic spring wedding, you could opt for a cake with fresh flowers and light, seasonal flavours. For an elegant wedding, consider a sophisticated cake design with clean lines and simple decorations. And if you're going for a cosy fall feeling, warm spices and autumnal colours could be a perfect fit.

Think about the colours and style of your wedding when choosing your cake design. You might want to incorporate your wedding colours into the cake, or choose a design that complements your dress or the venue. If you're having a cake and punch reception, there are lots of options for decorating to match your personal style.

It's also important to consider the size of your cake. If you want to save the top tier for your first anniversary, you'll need to plan ahead. You can ask your baker for advice on how to do this, or consider ordering a slightly larger cake so that your guests can try multiple flavours.

Finally, don't forget to showcase your cake at the reception! Designate a table where guests can admire it before it's cut, and consider displaying it in front of a window or with a spotlight to make it the centre of attention.

Decorating the cake table

The cake should be showcased in front of a window, with a spotlight or surrounded by candles for the best presentation possible. You could also consider the time of year and your wedding venue, and think about wedding colours or themes that would match your personal style. If you're having a spring wedding, for example, you might want to go for an elegant look.

Talk to your baker about which tiers should feature each flavour to get an even divide, and consider a slightly larger cake so that guests can try both offerings. It's also worth thinking about the timing of your cake cutting, as this can play a big role in your reception. In the event that there is cake left over, provide favour boxes for guests who want to take slices home. It's also a tradition to save the top tier of your wedding cake for your first anniversary.

Timing of the cake cutting

The timing of the cake cutting at your wedding reception is entirely up to you. Traditionally, the cake cutting was the very last moment of the reception, indicating to guests that they could head home. However, this was back when cake-and-punch receptions were the standard, rather than the full-blown parties we see today.

These days, the cake is usually cut towards the end of dinner, just before dancing begins, and is the last "official" event of the evening. This way, older guests will know they're welcome to depart whenever they're ready and won't feel they have to stay for the dancing. If you have young children and elderly guests, you may want to consider cutting the cake even earlier in the reception.

If you're having a photographer, it's a good idea to cut the cake after dinner so you can have it out and ready for photos. You can then leave it out for guests to help themselves to throughout the evening, without interrupting the dancing.

Cake leftovers

If you're planning a wedding cake reception, you'll want to ensure that the cake is compatible with your wedding theme, season and reception menu. You should also consider the timing of the cake cutting, as this will play a big role in the reception.

If you're concerned about cake leftovers, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, you can provide favour boxes for guests who want to take slices home. You can either purchase these yourself or ask your baker to include them with your order for an additional cost. Another option is to save the top tier of your wedding cake for your first anniversary. To do this, wrap the cake in multiple layers of Saran wrap and place it in a box that is then covered with a plastic bag.

When it comes to displaying your cake, you can showcase it on a designated table at the reception so that guests can admire it before it is cut and consumed. A round table is perfect for circular cakes, while a larger rectangular table may be needed for a linear design or additional desserts. You can also drape the table with matching linens, flower arrangements and other details that match your wedding style.

Cake tasting

Firstly, it's important to come to your cake consultation prepared. This means having a general idea of what you want your cake to look like, as well as a list of wedding day logistics for your baker. This includes the number of guests, the venue location, your wedding theme or colours, your budget, and any allergies or dietary restrictions. By providing this information, you'll ensure that the cake tasting runs smoothly and that your baker can accommodate your needs as best as possible.

During the cake tasting, you'll have the opportunity to sample different flavours and decide on the perfect combination for your wedding cake. It's a good idea to talk to your baker about which tiers should feature each flavour to ensure a more even divide. For example, if you're having a three-tier cake, you might want the bottom tier to be a classic flavour like vanilla, the middle tier to be a fruity flavour like lemon, and the top tier to be a more unique flavour like salted caramel.

Consider opting for a slightly larger cake than you might initially think necessary. This is because your guests will likely want to try both flavours on offer, so you'll need enough cake to go around! Additionally, if you're planning on saving the top tier of your cake for your first anniversary, as is tradition, be sure to discuss this with your baker. They can advise you on the best way to preserve and store the cake to ensure it stays fresh and delicious for a year.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with flavours. If you have a favourite flavour combination that you don't see on the menu, ask your baker if they can create a custom flavour for you. Remember, this is your special day, and your cake should reflect your unique tastes and personality. Enjoy the cake tasting process and savour every moment of it!

Frequently asked questions