Key Questions To Ask Your Wedding Cake Baker

Choosing a wedding cake is an important part of wedding planning. To ensure you get the cake of your dreams, it's essential to ask your cake maker the right questions. Here are some topics and questions to consider:

Business and Experience

Ask about their experience making wedding cakes, how long they've been in business, and how many weddings they've done. Request references from previous clients and ask to see a portfolio of their work. Inquire about their culinary background, training, and whether they are licensed and insured.

Logistics

Find out how far in advance you need to order the cake, when it will be prepared, and how it will be delivered and set up. Ask about their delivery process, including any fees, and what they do if the cake is damaged during transit.

Budget

Discuss pricing, including how they determine the cost of a cake (e.g., per slice, per guest, or based on customization). Understand all the fees upfront, including any additional costs for delivery, setup, cake stands, toppers, etc. Inquire about payment timelines, deposits, and refund policies.

Flavor and Design

Taste their cake offerings and discuss flavor and filling options. Ask about their design process, whether they offer custom designs, and if they can recreate specific ideas or adapt family recipes. Understand the size and shape of the cake needed to feed your guest list, and inquire about any special requests, such as gluten-free or vegan options.

With these questions in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect wedding cake maker for your big day!

Costs and Budgeting

The cost of a wedding cake will depend on factors such as size, shape, and decorative elements. The average cost of a wedding cake in the US is around $600, with most couples spending between $600 and $900. In bigger cities or for very large and elaborate cakes, prices closer to $1,000 to $1,200 are not uncommon. Wedding cakes are usually priced by the slice, with the average price of a slice of cake being around $4 for buttercream and $5 for fondant. The more slices you need, the more expensive the total cost will be.

When discussing costs with your baker, it is important to confirm that they can create a custom cake within your budget. Most bakers price their cakes per slice, but some may charge per number of guests or based on customisation, such as flavours, fillings, and the number of layers. There may also be additional costs for delivery, setup, and items like a wedding cake stand. Ask about all fees upfront and get everything in writing to confirm that the baker will stay within your budget.

Some ways to save money on your wedding cake include opting for buttercream frosting, which is usually cheaper and preferred by most people over fondant, and serving "half-servings" or smaller slices. You can also combine a display cake with a sheet cake, ordering a simpler design, and choosing simpler flavours like vanilla and chocolate.

It is recommended to book your wedding cake supplier at least six months before your wedding, as some professional bakers book weddings up to a year in advance.

Flavours and Fillings

When it comes to flavours and fillings, you have a world of options to choose from. You might want to go with a classic like Victoria sponge, lemon, chocolate, or fruit, or opt for something more unique and innovative. Ask your cake maker what flavours and fillings they offer, and don't be afraid to mix and match! You can also ask for their recommendations based on the season—for example, a pumpkin chai spice cake for a fall wedding or lemon or lilac cream filling for spring nuptials.

In addition to the standard cake flavours, you may also want to consider gluten-free, vegan, or kosher options to accommodate any dietary restrictions your guests may have. Be sure to ask your cake maker about these options, as well as any other special requests you may have.

When it comes to frosting and filling options, you'll typically choose between buttercream or lemon curd. If you're feeling adventurous, you could also explore other options like ganache or fondant. And don't forget to ask about the different types of ingredients used, including any organic or vegan choices. Quality ingredients may cost more, but they will make your cake taste even better!

To help you make your decision, most cake makers will offer a cake tasting appointment or provide samples of their flavours for you to try. This is a fun part of the wedding planning process, so be sure to enjoy it!

Design and Customisation

• Ask to see a portfolio of the cake maker's past work. Find out if they made all the cakes in their portfolio and if they can offer references from previous clients.
• Discuss customisation options. Can the cake maker create a completely custom cake, or do they require you to choose from a set selection of designs? If you have inspirational ideas or a specific photo, ask if they can recreate it. If you don't know what you want, ask if they can offer design suggestions based on your budget and theme.
• Ask about the types of icing they work with. Do they use buttercream, fondant, or both?
• Discuss any additional decorations you would like on the cake. Can the cake maker create sugar flowers? If you would like fresh flowers, ask if they can work with your florist to source and arrange them.
• Ask about the size and shape of the cake. The cake maker should be able to advise you on the best size and shape of tiers to feed your guest list.
• Discuss how the cake will be displayed. Does the cake maker provide or rent cake stands, toppers, or a cake-cutting knife?

Logistics and Delivery

There are a few key things to consider when it comes to the logistics and delivery of your wedding cake. Firstly, ask your cake maker about their delivery process. Will they deliver the cake to the venue, or will someone on your end be expected to collect it? Be sure to also ask about any delivery charges, as most companies will charge a mileage fee.

It's also important to know how far in advance your cake will be prepared. Many bakers have multiple clients, so don't be surprised if your cake is made three to four days before your wedding. If you want to save the top tier of your cake for your first anniversary, ask your baker about the best way to preserve or freeze it, and whether they can provide a box for storage.

In terms of setup, ask your cake maker if they will be setting up the cake on the day. This is particularly important if you're having a dessert table or cake display, as you may need to assign someone to ensure it looks the way you want it to. Ask your cake maker if they provide cake stands, knives, and other equipment, and whether there are additional rental fees for these items.

Finally, discuss with your cake maker how the cake will be transported. Will it travel partially assembled or fully decorated? Will any last-minute touch-ups be done at the venue? It's also a good idea to ask what the cake maker will do if the cake is damaged during transit.

Experience and References

Asking about your baker's experience and references is a great way to get a sense of their expertise and whether they're a good fit for your wedding cake needs. Here are some questions to consider:

"How long have you been in the baking business, and how many weddings have you provided cakes for?" Understanding the baker's overall experience and specifically their experience with wedding cakes can give you confidence in their ability to deliver a delicious and visually stunning cake.

"Can you share any testimonials or reviews from previous wedding clients?" Reading or hearing about the experiences of other couples who have hired this baker can provide valuable insights into their work ethic, timeliness, and quality of the final product.

"Have you worked with [specific venue] before?" If you've already chosen your wedding venue, it can be beneficial to know if the baker has experience creating cakes for that location. They may have insights into the venue's policies or recommendations based on their previous experiences.

"Do you have any references I can contact?" Requesting references allows you to speak directly with past clients and ask more detailed questions about their experience. It also demonstrates the baker's confidence in their work and their commitment to client satisfaction.

"What types of cake designs are you most experienced in creating?" Different bakers may have specialties or preferred styles that they are most comfortable with. Understanding their strengths can help you decide if their skills align with your vision for the cake.

"Have you won any awards or been recognized in any industry publications for your wedding cakes?" Recognition from industry awards or features in reputable publications can be a testament to the baker's exceptional skills and reputation in the wedding cake industry.

Remember, the answers to these questions will provide valuable information about the baker's professionalism, expertise, and ability to meet your specific needs. Don't hesitate to request specific details and examples—a seasoned baker should be proud to share their experience and put your mind at ease.

Frequently asked questions