My experience with picking out a wedding cake felt rather fast. When we were planning our own wedding and decided we wanted cupcakes, we scheduled a tasting at one cupcake shop and ordered our cupcakes as we were tasting them. There was no comparing with another shop, nor was their much consultation between my husband and I. To the tasting, I brought along my hubby-to-be (of course), my maid of honor and my mom to help us decide but because of a very rushed tasting (and not-to-mention uncomfortable - stools and not much of a table - really? passing a plate between our laps wasn't exactly what I had pictured) and a pushy cake-lady, we placed an order an hour later. You would think that with this type of experience we would've walked away, but the truth is that we didn't really know what we were doing; mostly, we didn't go in with one cohesive plan. So with a little bit of confusion and one previously mentioned cake-shop-owner we ordered the cake, it was yummy cake I assure you, and I was liking the ideas we had come up with. However, I should have guessed that the rushed tasting experience wouldn't be the end of the unfortunate service. Upon calling to confirm our order two weeks before the wedding I discovered that they no longer had our contract and that we needed to fill out a new one, which I did right then and there over the phone. Our cupcakes and small bride + groom cake tasted delicious and looked the way they were suppose to (except for the use of fondant rather than buttercream on our small cake). I've seen worse cake disasters, but all of this is just to say: do what you can to ensure your wedding cake experience is a smooth, enjoyable one. Next up, I have broken down for you into categories the primary topics to assess before stepping into your first cake tasting.
General
After deciding on the budget and style of your wedding, collect images of cakes and details that you like; this way you have some visuals to present to your baker. Read some reviews of different shops in your area. Make sure that all parties involved agree and are on the same page with what you want your outcome to be before stepping into your first cake tasting.
Cost
The more elaborate your wedding cake the more pricey it will be. The most costly factor is your baker's time, so keep that in mind when choosing a cake design. On average, wedding cakes cost around $3.00 per serving, depending upon your location, the popularity of the shop and your design. So, multiply that by the amount of guests you wish to serve and you'll likely be in the correct ball park. The good news is that most bakers will work with you to accomplish your dream cake within your budget, just be sure to communicate with your baker and be open to ideas that can save you some money here or there.
Cake and Frosting
There are countless cake and frosting options to consider. You should be prepared to give the bakery shop of your choice a list of what options you are seriously considering so they know how to prepare for your tasting. For example, if you know that chocolate is a must in your wedding cake, let them know. Do some research so you can get a general idea of what different frostings are. For example, Buttercream is a more popular choice and like the name suggests, its very creamy and rich; whereas Fondant is thick, ideal for creating that smooth look you often see on wedding cakes, and in my opinion doesn't taste as good as Buttercream.
What to Expect While at a Tasting:
Remember that a cake tasting is given to couples who have done their research and are seriously considering making a purchase from that bakery. At the tasting, cake samples will be brought to you either "naked" or fully prepared. A naked sample is when the cake, filling, and frosting samples are brought to you separately which allows for isolated tastings as well as an easy way to try out different combinations. Fully prepared samples will be assembled cakes and will likely reflect the bakeries most popular options. While tasting the cake, be sure to note the texture and moisture of the cake. If you already know what other types of food you are serving at the reception, consider what might pair well. After your tasting is over, do not feel obligated to place an order. Be honest and appreciative but do not feel pressured to commit to anything you are not 100% sure of.
The following is a list of commonly asked cake questions that you too should ask of your bakery shop.
1. How do you price your wedding cakes?
2. How far in advance should I order my wedding cake?
3. Do you offer a free wedding cake tasting consultation?
4. How many people can join me in the tasting?
5. Do I need to bring anything to the meeting?
6. How do I confirm my wedding cake agreement?
7. Will you deliver my wedding cake to the venue?
8. Who provides and decorates the cake with flowers?
9. Do you provide cake toppers?
10. Do you rent cake stands?
11. Do you offer sheet cakes as back up cake to the wedding cake?
12. Do you provide a box for the top tier?
13. Up to how many tiers do you offer?
14. What method of payment do you accept?
15. Is my wedding cake deposit refundable?
16. How long have you been baking cakes for?
17. May we see a portfolio?
I hope you all enjoy your wedding cake experience. Though ours may not have been ideal, we have fond memories and enjoyed our cake immensely. Happy cake shopping!
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