Creating A Cardboard Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

A cardboard wedding cake is a great DIY option for those who want to save money or add a personal touch to their wedding. By using cardboard, styrofoam, and some craft supplies, you can create a beautiful and stable tiered cake that will be a unique centerpiece at your wedding. This project requires some planning and preparation, but with careful execution, you can make a cake that looks almost as good as the real thing!

Choosing a cake type and recipe

Number of Tiers:

The number of tiers will determine the complexity of your cake. A single-tier cake is the simplest option, while a multi-tiered cake will require additional structural support and careful assembly. If you're a beginner, start with a single-tier cake and work your way up as you gain experience.

Cake Flavor:

The flavor of the cake is an important consideration. Traditional wedding cakes are often vanilla, but you can also choose from a variety of other options, such as chocolate, red velvet, lemon, marble, or even carrot cake. Select a flavor that you are comfortable baking and that will appeal to the majority of your guests.

Cake Recipe:

Once you've chosen a flavor, it's time to select a recipe. Consider the ingredients and their availability, as well as the baking and assembly instructions. If you're making a multi-tiered cake, pay close attention to the cake's structure and stability. The recipe should provide clear instructions on how to create a sturdy base for stacking and layering.

Guest Count:

The number of guests you expect at the wedding will influence the size and quantity of cakes you need to make. A single-tier cake may be sufficient for a small gathering, while a larger wedding may require multiple tiers or additional desserts. It's important to ensure you have enough cake to serve all your guests.

Timing and Storage:

Consider the timing and storage requirements of the cake recipe. Wedding cakes are often baked and assembled ahead of time, so choose a recipe that can be made in advance and stored without losing its freshness and taste. Freezing cake layers is a common practice to ensure they stay moist and are easier to handle during assembly.

Decorations:

Finally, think about the decorations you want to use on your cake. Fresh flowers, edible gold leaf, or colorful drips are just a few options. Choose a cake recipe that complements the decorations you plan to use. For example, a light-colored cake can be a great backdrop for vibrant flowers or colorful drips.

Remember, it's essential to test your recipe beforehand, especially if you're using unfamiliar ingredients or techniques. This will ensure that your cardboard wedding cake not only looks impressive but also tastes delicious!

Baking and assembling the cake

Baking and assembling the cardboard wedding cake

Baking and assembling a cardboard wedding cake is a fun and creative project. Here are the steps you can follow to make your own:

Materials:

• 3-5 square, heart-shaped, or round cardboard boxes of different sizes (small, medium, and large) to form the tiered cake.
• Acrylic paint in pastel colours or gift wrap to decorate the boxes.
• A flat cardboard sheet or a cake board for the base.
• Decorative elements such as satin rosebuds, silk flowers, lace, ribbon, beads, or other trims.
• A glue gun and strong adhesive.

Process:

• Paint the exterior of each cardboard box with acrylic paint or cover them with gift wrap. You can also leave the boxes as they are if you prefer a more minimalist look.
• Cover the flat cardboard sheet with gift wrap or use a cake board for the base.
• Assemble the boxes by applying adhesive to the bottom of each box and stacking them on top of each other, with the largest box on the bottom and the smallest box on top.
• Decorate the cake by gluing on lace, ribbon, beads, or other trims. You can also add flowers, satin rosebuds, or other decorative elements.
• Cut a slot in the back of the largest box if you want to use the cake as a cardholder.

Feel free to get creative and add your own personal touches to the cake!

Decorating the cake

Decorating a cardboard wedding cake is a fun and creative process that can be tailored to your unique style and preferences. Here are some detailed instructions and ideas to help you decorate your cardboard cake:

Cover the Cake:

Start by covering each cardboard tier with paint, gift wrap, or decorative paper. You can use pastel-coloured acrylic paint and a paintbrush to add a delicate touch to your cake. Alternatively, wrap the cardboard in gift wrap or decorative paper for a more vibrant or patterned look. This step will create a beautiful base for your decorations.

Assemble the Tiers:

Once your tiers are covered, it's time to assemble them. Use a strong adhesive to attach each tier to the centre of the one below it. Ensure that you work on a level surface and carefully centre each tier for a balanced and stable cake. You can use a cake board or a flat piece of cardboard as the base for your cake.

Embellish with Lace and Ribbon:

Add a decorative border to your cake by gluing a piece of ruffled lace or trim around the bottom of each tier. You can choose lace or trim in a colour or pattern that complements your wedding theme. For an extra touch of elegance, add a band of decorative ribbon or trim around the centre of each tier to resemble a piped border.

Adorn with Flowers:

Flowers are a classic and romantic way to decorate your wedding cake. You can use silk flowers, satin rosebuds, or fresh flowers to add a touch of nature to your cake. Place a small corsage or a designed arrangement of flowers on top of the cake for a focal point. You can also add single blossoms to the corners of each tier for a delicate and whimsical look.

Enhance with Beads and Jewels:

For a touch of glamour, consider adding beads or jewels to your cake. You can glue a string of beads on top of the ribbon or lace border for a dramatic effect. Alternatively, you can drape the beads for a cascading, elegant look. You can find beads and jewels in various colours and sizes to match your wedding colour palette.

Personalise with Toppers:

Customise your cake with a wedding cake topper that reflects your style and theme. You can find a variety of toppers online or in craft stores, ranging from rustic wooden initials to gold vintage designs. A cake topper adds a special touch to your cake and can be a great keepsake after the wedding.

Finish with Greenery:

Incorporate greenery into your cake design by adding small sprigs of eucalyptus, lavender, or other foliage. Greenery adds a natural and organic element to your cake and can be easily combined with flowers or other decorations. It also helps to create a whimsical and romantic atmosphere.

Remember to have fun and be creative during the decorating process. You can mix and match different elements and decorations to make your cardboard wedding cake unique and memorable.

Transporting the cake

Transporting a cardboard wedding cake can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your cake arrives safely and securely at its destination. Here are some detailed tips and instructions for transporting your cardboard wedding cake:

Prepare the Cake for Transport:

• Stack and decorate the cake tiers at home beforehand. This will give you more control over the process and reduce the risk of mishaps during transportation.
• Use a sturdy base: Place the bottom tier of the cake on a strong cake board or foam board that can support the weight of the entire cake. You can "glue" the bottom tier to the board with frosting.
• Dowel the cake: Insert wooden dowels into each cake tier, including the central dowel that goes through all the tiers to provide stability and prevent sliding.
• Chill the cake: Keep the cake chilled or frozen before transport. Cold buttercream acts as armour for the cake, preventing fingerprints and sliding during transport.
• Use a sturdy cake box: Place the cake in a tall, sturdy cardboard box that fits the cake with a little extra room. Secure the box with packing tape and cut a "door" on one side for easy access.
• Vehicle preparation: Ensure your vehicle has a flat, level surface to place the cake box, such as an SUV with a large flat back or floorboard. Keep the car cool by turning on the air conditioning, especially on hot days.
• Drive carefully: Drive slowly and cautiously, avoiding sharp turns and sudden stops. Have someone accompany you to hold the cake box steady and help navigate.

Setting Up at the Venue:

• Scout the venue: Upon arrival, briefly scout the venue to familiarise yourself with the layout and confirm the cake's placement.
• Unload and assemble: Carefully remove the cake from the box and assemble the tiers, if necessary. Make any final touch-ups to the cake's decoration.
• Handover and instructions: Before leaving, take photos of the cake setup and provide the event manager with a handover sheet containing relevant information, such as portion sizes, dietary specifications, and decorative elements to be removed.

Displaying the cake

Displaying a cardboard wedding cake is a fun and creative way to celebrate a wedding. Here are some tips and ideas for putting together and showcasing your cardboard cake masterpiece:

Choose a suitable location:

Select a spot that is easily accessible and visible to all the guests. A designated cake table or a sturdy surface in the reception area is ideal. Ensure the location is away from high-traffic areas to prevent accidental bumps or knocks.

Create a beautiful backdrop:

Enhance the visual appeal of your cardboard cake by setting up a stylish backdrop. This can be a simple drape, a floral arch, a decorative wall, or even a stylish door. The backdrop will not only frame your cake but also provide a lovely setting for photos.

Use a sturdy base:

A strong and stable base is crucial for displaying your cardboard cake. You can use a large, sturdy cardboard sheet, a cake board, or a cake drum. Cover the base with gift wrap, fabric, or paper in a colour or pattern that complements your cake design.

Assemble the tiers carefully:

If your cardboard cake has multiple tiers, assemble them with care. Use a strong adhesive to secure each tier, ensuring they are centred and level. For added stability, consider using wooden dowels or bubble tea straws inserted through the tiers, especially if you plan to transport the cake after assembly.

Decorate with flair:

Now for the fun part—decorating your cardboard cake! You can paint the tiers with acrylic paint, wrap them with gift paper, or cover them with fabric. Embellish the cake with lace, ribbons, beads, flowers (fresh or artificial), and other decorative accents. Consider incorporating the wedding colour palette or theme into your design.

Add a cake topper:

Finish off your cardboard cake with a stylish cake topper. You can purchase one from a craft store or wedding shop, or make your own. Personalised toppers with the couple's names, initials, or wedding date are a lovely touch.

Surround with complementary decor:

Enhance the display by adding complementary decorative elements around the cake. This could include fresh flowers, candles, fairy lights, or other wedding decor that ties in with your theme.

Provide a card holder:

If you plan to use the cardboard cake as a cardholder, create a slot in the back of the largest tier for guests to slip in their envelopes. This will ensure the cards are kept safe and add a unique touch to your display.

Remember to consider the overall size and stability of your cardboard cake, especially if you need to transport it. With a bit of creativity and attention to detail, your cardboard wedding cake is sure to be a memorable part of the celebration!

Frequently asked questions