Wedding Cake Checklist: Everything You Need to Know Before Ordering
Planning the perfect wedding cake just got easier. Here’s your complete checklist to make sure nothing gets missed.
The wedding cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a statement piece, a photo moment, and a delicious way to celebrate your big day. Whether you’re dreaming of a towering floral showstopper or a simple, elegant design, your cake deserves thoughtful planning.
This wedding cake checklist will guide you through every important decision: from budgeting and choosing a style to selecting flavors, coordinating with your baker, and planning for delivery. Let’s dive in!
1. Set a Budget for Your Wedding Cake
Before anything else, figure out how much you’re willing to spend on your cake. Wedding cakes can range from $3 to $15+ per slice, depending on size, design complexity, ingredients, and the reputation of the baker.
Pro Tip: Decide early if you want a showstopper centerpiece or a simple design with a backup sheet cake to serve more guests at a lower cost.
Factors that affect your cake budget:
Number of tiers and servings
Type of frosting and decorations (fondant is pricier than buttercream)
Intricate designs, sugar flowers, or metallic accents
2. Choose a Wedding Cake Style That Matches Your Theme
Once the budget is set, the next big decision is style. The design of your wedding cake should match your overall wedding aesthetic—whether that’s romantic, rustic, modern, boho, or glamorous.
Think of your wedding cake as part of the decor. It should look as good as it tastes.
Popular wedding cake styles to consider:
Classic white tiered cakes with floral accents
Rustic naked cakes with berries and greenery
Modern geometric designs with bold colors
Vintage or themed cakes inspired by art, travel, or culture
Also consider colors, textures, and personalized elements like monograms or custom toppers.
3. Decide on Flavors & Fillings That Guests Will Love
Now comes the fun part—tasting! Beyond the beautiful exterior, your wedding cake needs to be just as impressive on the inside. From classic flavors to unique pairings, this is where your personality (and taste buds) can shine.
Don’t be afraid to mix flavors across tiers to please a variety of guests.
Popular wedding cake flavor combos:
Vanilla sponge with raspberry or lemon curd
Chocolate with hazelnut or salted caramel
Red velvet with cream cheese frosting
Almond cake with strawberry preserve
Coconut cake with mango filling
Ask your baker if they offer tasting sessions, and check if they use fresh, seasonal ingredients or offer custom flavor combinations.
4. Know Your Guest Count Before You Finalize the Cake Size
The number of guests attending your wedding directly impacts the size (and cost) of your wedding cake. A good baker will help calculate how many tiers or servings you need based on your guest list.
As a cost-saving tip, consider serving a beautifully decorated display cake for photos and a simpler sheet cake from the kitchen for extra servings.
Serving size tips:
A standard 3-tier cake (6”, 8”, 10”) serves about 75–100 guests.
Add a fourth tier for larger guest lists.
Cupcake towers or dessert bars can also supplement servings creatively.
Your cake baker is your creative partner in this process—so choose wisely and book early, especially if your wedding falls in peak season. Aim to start searching at least 4–6 months in advance.
Here’s how to choose a wedding cake baker:
Check reviews and portfolios online or through trusted referrals.
Visit bakeries or schedule virtual consults to discuss your ideas.
Ask if they offer custom designs or specialize in specific cake styles.
Don’t forget to schedule a tasting session—this is key to confirming both quality and compatibility.
Pro tip: Bring inspiration photos to your consultation, along with your color palette, theme, and guest count.
Your cake will be photographed (a lot)—so don’t leave the presentation to chance. A well-styled cake table adds elegance and enhances your reception décor.
Tips for a stunning wedding cake display:
Choose a beautiful cake stand that matches your theme.
Decorate the table with fresh flowers, candles, or greenery.
Place the cake in a well-lit area with a clean background—away from heat or sunlight.
Add a personalized cake topper or signage for a custom touch.
Many couples also add a small backdrop—like a floral arch or a “Love” neon sign—for a photo-worthy display.
7. Don’t Forget to Confirm Delivery & Setup Details
A stunning cake can still cause stress if delivery isn’t handled properly. Once you’ve chosen your baker and finalized the design, confirm how the cake will be transported and set up on the big day.
What to clarify with your baker:
Who will deliver and set up the cake?
What time will it arrive at the venue?
Will it be delivered fully assembled or tier-by-tier?
Who should the delivery team contact at the venue?
It’s also smart to designate someone (planner, coordinator, or trusted friend) to oversee the delivery and presentation.
The party may be over, but your cake can live on (especially that top tier!). Make a plan for what you want to do with leftovers ahead of time so nothing goes to waste.
Ideas for leftover wedding cake:
Save the top tier for your first anniversary or a special date.
Offer guests cake boxes to take a slice home.
Store properly in the freezer—wrapped tightly in plastic and foil.
Donate excess cake to a local shelter or community center (if allowed).
You can also ask your baker if they provide packaging or guidance for storing leftovers.
Final Thoughts: Make Your Wedding Cake Unforgettable
Your wedding cake is more than just dessert—it’s a visual centerpiece, a flavor experience, and a sweet way to celebrate love. With this wedding cake checklist in hand, you’re ready to confidently choose a design, flavor, and baker that reflect your unique wedding vision.
Planning early, asking the right questions, and focusing on both style and taste will make sure your cake is as unforgettable as your big day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I order my wedding cake?▾
You should book your wedding cake at least 4 to 6 months before the wedding date, especially if you’re getting married during peak season. This ensures your preferred baker is available and allows enough time for design and tasting sessions.
How much wedding cake do I need for 100 guests?▾
For 100 guests, a 3 to 4-tier cake is typically recommended. You can also supplement with a sheet cake in the kitchen to keep costs down while still having a display-worthy centerpiece.
What’s the average cost of a wedding cake?▾
The average wedding cake costs between $500 and $1,200, depending on design complexity, size, ingredients, and the baker’s experience. Costs are usually calculated per slice, ranging from $3 to $15+.
Can I have more than one flavor in my wedding cake?▾
Yes! Many couples choose different flavors for each tier to please a variety of guests. Just make sure your flavors complement each other and work well with your chosen fillings and frostings.
What is the top tier of a wedding cake for?▾
Traditionally, the top tier is saved and frozen to be enjoyed on the couple’s first anniversary or another special occasion. Ask your baker about proper storage tips if you plan to follow this tradition.
What’s the difference between fondant and buttercream?▾
Fondant gives a smooth, sculpted finish and holds up well in heat, but it’s sweeter and more expensive. Buttercream is softer, creamier, and often more flavorful, but it’s more sensitive to temperature.
Can I decorate my wedding cake with real flowers?▾
Yes, but make sure they are non-toxic and pesticide-free. Ask your florist or baker for recommendations on safe floral decoration. Many couples also use sugar or edible flowers for a similar look.
Is it cheaper to do a fake wedding cake or dummy tiers?▾
Using dummy tiers (styrofoam layers decorated to match) can reduce costs if you only need cake for a small guest list. It also makes transport and setup easier while still achieving a grand look.
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