Deciding On the Perfect Wedding Cake For You
Choosing the ideal wedding cake for you might seem like it’s an easy task. That is, until you roll up into the bakery and realize how many decisions there are to make about it. And your wedding cake is the focal point of your reception. Your guests are watching and waiting to see what you’ll be serving them. So, choosing the right dessert for your wedding day could end up being a stressful disaster if you don’t go in prepared. I want to explore some of the things you’l be asked to consider and fill you in on what to expect before you head into your appointment. If you still feel a bit overwhelmed, just reach out! I’ve attended numerous wedding cake tastings with my couples. I’d be delighted…I see a piece of spice cake with my name on it actually.
The Average Cost of a Wedding Cake in Erie Pa
You might be surprised to find out that the average cost of a traditional 3 tiered wedding cake is about $814 according to the Online Wedding Budget Calculator. In Erie Pa most brides spent about 1.5% of their total wedding budget on their cake. That’s a big chunk of your budget for a little slice of dessert.
Your traditional Tiered Wedding Cake is more costly because of the amount of work that goes into the layers and intricate detail of decorating. It is usually priced out ‘per serving’ at $6.50-$9.00 per serving. That can become a pricey option. However, many couples feel that the cost is worth the beauty and elegance a tiered wedding cake brings to their reception. The other aspect of a tiered cake to consider is the amount of time it takes to cut and plate. A reception hall may have to spend as much as 30-60 minutes carefully cutting and plating the cake before service can begin. (I strongly suggest cutting your cake before dinner service if you are going with the traditional tiered cake.)
The Different Styles of Wedding Cake
The Traditional Tiered Wedding Cake may be the most popular option, but it isn’t the only option and many couples are selecting more unique desserts. The second most popular option is the Sweetheart Cake. This is usually an 8 inch layer cake with a filling that’s decorated just for the newlyweds and their close family or bridal party to enjoy. The bakery will prepare a larger sheet cake in the same flavor to serve to guests with this option.
Next up are gourmet cup cakes or cake pops. With either of these options I’ve seen couples either skip the traditional cake cutting or cut the cutest little cupcake ever. What’s nice about cupcakes is you can serve ONLY cupcakes in a variety of flavors OR you can combine it with the sweetheart cake and still have a more traditional looking cake to cut for your photos.
The Wedding Cake Options
You might be wondering…uh…didn’t we just go over the wedding cake options? Yes…and no…see now we get into flavors, frostings and design styles.
Every bakery has a variety of cake flavors they’ll offer you. Most popular is white cake, although chocolate has been gaining some popularity the last few years. My personal favorite is traditional wedding cake flavored with almond extract.
After you select your flavor you’ll need to consider your design and frosting as they go hand in hand. Every wedding cake baker is more of an artist in this area and they’ll advice you which frosting will work best for what you want to do. And, if you decide on fresh flowers for the cake you’ll need to team your florist and cake artist up together to ensure they arrive around the same time to your reception hall.
Not a Fan of Wedding Cake? No Biggie!
What do you mean you don’t like wedding cake? Are you a crazy person???? Just kidding!!! I’m not complaining, it just means more for me!! Yay!
But seriously, you’re not a cake fan? What else can you serve? Well, I’ve seen donut walls, pies, cheese cake, ice cream bars, AND I’ve even seen a wedding serve a giant cookie cake instead! It’s your wedding day so you serve what makes YOU happy. My son and DIL plan on serving individual molten lava cakes for their reception. And, honestly, I think it’s a fantastic idea.
As you can see, there are many amazing and unique options for your wedding cake. If you need any help with ideas or selecting the right bakery or cake service for your wedding we’d love to talk with you a little more! But there are a few questions you can ask yourself to help decide which cake is right for you.
How to Pick the Perfect Wedding Cake for You
- What cake speaks to you the most? Is your wedding vision contemporary with a modern feel? A sweetheart cake with cup cakes is the current most popular trend. Are you going for an edgy, unique wedding full of twists and surprises? Donuts and Pie are a great unique twist on wedding dessert. Are you more traditional and dreamy? Maybe you should go with a traditional tiered cake.
- What’s your wedding theme? Some wedding cakes just go better with the theme. Imagine donuts and hot cider and cocoa on a crisp fall day. A brisk winter wedding might pair nicely with a cheese cake table.
- How many children will attend your wedding? That’s right. Whether or not you’re inviting kids could change what cake works out well. Little ones have a tendency to “sample the goods” as soon as they get a chance. Sneaking a cupcake won’t ruin your cake cutting photos, but I’ve seen disaster happen when a tiered cake is left unattended.
- Finally, do you want to do cake cutting before or after dinner? When you cut your wedding cake can influence what kind you serve. A sweetheart cake with a hidden sheet cake already cut and plated or cupcakes for quick service are better for an after dinner cake cutting.
Lets' Start Planning
At Erie Wedding & Event Services, we understand that your special day is a reflection of your unique story. Our comprehensive planning, exceptional DJ services, gourmet catering, professional photography, cinematic videography, and entertaining photo booth rentals are tailored to bring your vision to life. By filling out our contact form, you’re taking the first step towards a seamless and memorable celebration. Entrust us with your dreams, and let our dedicated team craft an event that echoes your individuality, leaving you with nothing less than perfection. Begin your journey with us; let’s create moments that will resonate for a lifetime. Your story deserves the magic of Erie Services.
