Protecting Your Wedding Cake Outdoors: Tips And Tricks

Outdoor weddings can be beautiful, but they present unique challenges for protecting the wedding cake. From dealing with pests like seagulls, ants, and bugs, to preventing the cake from melting in warm weather, there are several factors to consider when it comes to safeguarding your cake. Luckily, there are numerous solutions to these problems, such as using specific types of frosting, creating canopies or tents, and employing clever hacks to keep pests at bay. With the right preparations, you can ensure your outdoor wedding cake remains intact and delicious.

Keep the cake in the shade

Keeping your wedding cake in the shade is one of the most important things to consider when planning an outdoor wedding. Direct sunlight can cause buttercream frosting to "sweat", so it's best to avoid placing your cake in the sun, even in cooler weather. If you've opted for a buttercream-frosted cake, be sure to set it up in a shaded area.

If there is no natural shade available at your venue, consider setting up a pavilion or tent to keep your cake cool and protected. A canopy or gazebo can also provide shade and shelter for your cake, and you can hang netting from the canopy to provide extra protection from bugs and debris.

If you're concerned about the aesthetics of a tent or canopy, there are other creative ways to keep your cake in the shade. You could use a tall shepherd's hook to hang a round hoop bed canopy draped with netting over the cake table. This will protect your cake while still allowing it to be featured and admired by your guests.

Another option is to create a DIY frame using PVC pipe and drape it with tulle or organza to make a pretty tent around the cake. This will not only keep the cake shaded but also add a stylish touch to your wedding decor.

Remember, even if your cake is in the shade, it's still at risk of bugs and debris, so consider placing citronella candles near the cake table to deter pests.

Use a cake dome

Using a cake dome is an effective way to protect your outdoor wedding cake while still displaying it beautifully. Here are some tips to make the most of this method:

Firstly, cake domes are best suited for small, one-tier cakes. If you plan to have multiple tiers, consider using individual cake stands for each tier and placing a dome on top of each one. This way, your cake will be protected while also creating a charming visual effect.

When choosing a cake dome, opt for one that complements the style and theme of your wedding. Cake domes can range from simple and elegant designs to more ornate and decorative options. Consider the size of your cake and select a dome that is large enough to comfortably accommodate it, allowing for some extra space to create a sense of openness.

Ensure that the cake dome is made of high-quality materials that will protect your cake from external elements. It should have a sturdy base to prevent accidental knocks or toppling. Additionally, consider the climate and choose a dome with adequate ventilation to prevent condensation from forming inside, especially if your wedding is in a warm location.

To enhance the presentation of your cake under the dome, consider adding decorations around the base or on the table. Fresh flowers, greenery, or elegant fabric draping can add a romantic touch to the display. You can also personalise the dome itself by adding decorations or a custom cake topper that reflects your style or the wedding theme.

By using a cake dome, you can rest assured that your wedding cake will be safe from bugs, leaves, and other outdoor elements. It allows you to showcase your cake elegantly while also keeping it protected until it's time to cut and serve. Remember to coordinate with your baker or caterer to ensure the cake is placed inside the dome properly, maintaining its structural integrity and visual appeal.

Put up a canopy or tent

One of the best ways to protect your wedding cake outdoors is to put up a canopy or tent. This will provide shade and keep the cake mostly clear of the elements. You can buy or rent a pavilion or a small tent for this purpose. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can create a canopy using PVC piping and draping it with tulle, organza, or netting. This will give your cake a pretty, whimsical look while keeping it safe from bugs and debris.

If you go for the DIY option, you can set up a tall shepherd's hook next to the cake table and hang the canopy from it, allowing the netting to drape gently around the cake. Alternatively, attach the netting to a canopy loop and hang it above the cake from a hook or ceiling beam. You can also place the cake under a cake dome, especially if it's a small, one-tier cake.

To enhance the protection of your cake, combine the canopy or tent with other strategies. For example, keep the cake away from direct sunlight, even in cooler weather. Opt for a fondant-covered cake, as fondant is less likely to melt than buttercream. Additionally, watch out for creepy-crawlies! Keep the tablecloth off the ground, and set the table legs in water-filled cups to prevent ants from climbing up.

Use netting

Using netting is a great way to protect your wedding cake outdoors, and it can be done in a way that looks elegant and stylish. Here's how to do it:

Firstly, source a round hoop bed canopy in a colour that matches your wedding theme. You can add extra touches like tiny bows or butterflies, or keep it simple and elegant. Next, you'll need a tall shepherd's hook, which you can place next to the cake table. Hang the canopy from the hook, draping the netting gently around the cake. This will create a beautiful, protective canopy over your cake, keeping it safe from bugs and leaves while still being visible for your guests to admire.

A useful tip is to use dry ice to keep the cake cool, and only bring it out closer to the reception time. You should also be mindful of the type of filling you use, opting for something like buttercream that won't spoil easily. Once the cake has been cut and served, bring the remaining cake indoors to avoid any spoilage.

By using netting, you can protect your wedding cake without compromising on style or aesthetics, ensuring your cake remains a stunning centrepiece for your special day.

Avoid buttercream frosting

If you're planning an outdoor wedding, you'll want to make sure your cake is protected from the elements. One of the most important things to consider is the type of frosting you use. While buttercream frosting is a popular choice, it may not be the best option for an outdoor wedding in warm weather.

Buttercream frosting is made with a combination of confectioners' sugar, butter, and either milk or cream. This combination of ingredients can make buttercream more susceptible to melting in moderate to high temperatures. If your outdoor wedding is taking place during the summer or in a warm climate, it's best to avoid buttercream frosting.

One of the main issues with buttercream is that it can sweat in the heat, causing it to melt and affecting the overall appearance and texture of your cake. This is especially true if your cake is in direct sunlight, so it's important to keep it in the shade if you do decide to go with buttercream. Even in cooler weather, buttercream can be sensitive to temperature changes, so it's generally not recommended for outdoor use.

Another issue with buttercream frosting is that it can be more difficult to apply due to its "grittiness". It can be tricky to get smooth sides and sharp corners with buttercream, and it may not be the best option if you're looking for a polished or elegant look. Additionally, buttercream can be dyed any colour, but darker hues require a lot of colouring and can stain mouths, so it's something to keep in mind if you're particular about the colour of your cake.

Instead of buttercream, you may want to consider other types of frosting that hold up better in warmer temperatures, such as fondant or ganache. Fondant, a firm sugar icing, is a popular choice for outdoor weddings as it holds up well in the heat and gives the cake a clean, polished look. Ganache, a mixture of chocolate and cream, is another option that can handle high levels of heat. However, both of these options can be more expensive than buttercream, so it's important to consider your budget when making a decision.

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