Weddings are chock full of decisions. Dress, flowers, food, cake, favors, and let’s not get into the people and who to invite! Some brides have it all figured out and know exactly what they want. Others take each choice as it comes and figures it out as they go. I work to make the decision of the cake fun so that you get just what you want and enjoy the journey as well.
Architecture vs Taste
Yes, wedding cakes are beautiful to look at. What can really make one stand out, however, is if it also tastes good. I wholeheartedly believe that taste should come first. You may have many pretty pictures of your cake, but it will truly be remembered for its taste.
Cake tasting is the best part of the decision making process. Get a selection of what you might want for your cake or taste a variety of flavors so you can decide which is best. Your usually given enough to share, so make an intimate event of it and imagine everyone eating “this” cake at your wedding. A bride recently had a dilemma with The Secret Chocolatier tastings. She liked them all!
Once the kind of cake is chosen, the decoration comes next. Sometimes, a photo of a cake will resonate with you. Show that photo to the baker you thought had the best tasting cakes. If you want exactly that, ask if it can be replicated. If the photo is just a starting point of ideas, have a further discussion about what the possibilities are.
For both taste and look, here are a couple things to keep in mind when thinking through your wedding cake options.
Time of Year
A wedding cake can easily get inspiration from the season. Think about how it feels during the time of year your wedding is being held. The cake can have a similar feeling. For example: Spring: A pound cake with lemon buttercream, decorated with fresh flowers and pastel colors. Winter: A chocolate cake with cream cheese icing, decorated in white or silver.
Wedding Theme
If you have a specific theme to your reception, the cake should definitely flow with it. A beach theme where the cake looks like the ocean with sand at the top. The taste could also go along with the theme. Something light and fluffy like a white cake with vanilla buttercream would go well with the beach theme. Any specific colors used throughout the wedding (dresses, flowers, decorations) should also be coordinated with the cake.
Location, Location, Location
Where the reception is being held and the time of day can also be helpful factors in deciding the cake. We’re located in Charlotte, NC and know how hot those summers can be!
A reception held at night in a ballroom can warrant a very different cake from one held outside during the late afternoon. Again, its about the “feel” of the reception. You want the cake to match that. A night time reception can have a heavier, richer cake. Whereas, one during the day might need something lighter.
Reception Foods
Last, but not least, think about the food that you are serving. Is it a filling 3 course meal, or a light buffet of tapas? This can effect the focus people have on the cake and how much they will partake of it.
These ideas are in no way meant to limit you. If you want a dark chocolate cake, by all means, you should have it no matter the season or setting! If you are having difficulty deciding, my hope is these pointers will help. All of these factors will lead to a thoughtful discussion with your baker. This way, you will have the best cake possible for your special day!
Let’s Talk About Your Need
I work hard to make your day as special as it should be. If you’d like to talk about your wedding cake or favor needs please contact me today.
