Wedding cakes can be artistic masterpieces with different shapes, sizes, accents, and of course, decadent flavors and icing options! Today’s couples also often create dessert stations by adding other tasty sweets and treats while still allowing the wedding cake to be a gorgeous focal point. Talk with your baker and designer to craft the perfect cake and desserts that complement your color palette, taste preferences, and vibe!
While a traditional table display can be beautiful, explore unique rental pieces and shelving options that will be a statement in your overall design and tie in with the style of your day. Stationers can also adorn your dessert area with creative signage, labels, and personalized cake toppers. Consult your florist about adding blooms or greens to create your desired look.
Details to Consider
SERVING SIZE
Cake and desserts are typically priced per serving, so know how many people you need to serve.
CAKE SHAPE
Come with ideas, and let your cake designer be creative with an edible masterpiece!
FLAVORS & FILLINGS
Schedule tastings with local bakers to help you decide on a flavor you love or learn about popular choices.
FROSTING
There are many options to ask about and explore—buttercream, whipped cream, rolled fondant, and more!
DECORATIONS
Consider additional accents such as floral, greenery, cake jewelry, ribbon, hand-paintings, a special cake topper, or other décor for the entire display.
STANDS
Buying or renting a cake stand or dessert trays can add elegance and uniqueness to your display.
Jo Gilge Photography
What to Ask
- Ask if they are licensed.
- Ask about their cake and dessert options.
- Ask who can attend tastings and if fees are involved.
- Ask how far in advance they make the desserts.
- Ask about vegan and gluten-free options or
other dietary restrictions. - Ask if there are any additional fees for
delivery and setup. - Ask if they offer cake or dessert stands, trays,
or other displays, and when they would need to be returned if you use them. - Ask if they will work with your florist to add
blooms or greens to your cake or desserts. - Ask if they will provide cake knives if you do not have a set you wish to use already.
Details to Know
- Know if you are serving everyone cake or just
having a cutting-cake for the two of you. - Know your guest count.
- Know if you want any flowers, greens, or décor pieces added to the cake or dessert display.
- Know if there are any cultural treats or
meaningful desserts you wish to include. - Know how many different dessert options
you want to offer. - Know if you are including any unique guest
experiences, like an ice cream bar, s’mores
station, cotton candy cart, etc.
Things to Remember
- Remember to bring your own cake knives if you want to use a specific set.
- Remember to discuss freezing the top layer of your cake for your first anniversary.
- Remember to include signage for labeling and informing your guests about the desserts or unique experiences.
- Remember to book your baker early if your
wedding is during peak time or if they are popular.
Timing
6-12 MONTHS BEFORE:
Contact bakers to discuss ideas
and set up a tasting.
6 MONTHS BEFORE:
Design Consultation
Discuss choices and flavors.
2 MONTHS BEFORE:
Final design tweaks
2-3 WEEKS BEFORE:
Verify details and final guest count.
Gratuity
Tips for the baker of your wedding cake usually go to the cake designer and may be shared with the baking staff. While not expected, this extra gesture can be included in the final payment, given on the day of, or delivered after the wedding. Since you might not interact with the baker on your wedding day, as you’ll probably be preparing during the cake delivery, consider designating a trusted guest or staff member to manage the tip. A thank-you note with an enclosed gift for your baker can also be left on your cake or dessert table before setup. Expressing your satisfaction with a great review is also appreciated.
Boxcar Photography | Emma Coss Photography | forHis Glory Photography by Artina Becker | Jo Gilge Photography | Haley Hundt Photography |
Julie Elizabeth Photo & Film | Rachel Traxler Photography | Skyler & Vhan Photography | Tara Draper Photography | The Adamkovi
Trending Desserts
While a classic wedding cake is a timeless centerpiece, many couples are adding variety to their dessert table with sweet treats that guests can easily grab and enjoy. Offering multiple dessert options can add personality to your reception, accommodate different tastes, and create a fun, interactive display. Here are some of our favorite ideas:
- Cookies, donuts or donut walls
- Mini dessert cups
- Chocolate-covered pretzels
- Macarons
- Pie or mini hand pies
- Marshmallows (or s’mores!)
- Cannoli
- Candy bar or candy buffet
- Chocolate fountain
- Rice Krispie treats
- Cupcakes
- Ice cream or ice cream bars
- Cotton candy
- Churros
- Mini tarts
- Pudding cups
- Chocolate-covered strawberries/fruit
- Baklava
Abigail Peters Photography | Boxcar Photography | Dani Stephenson Photography | Jo Gilge Photography | Tara Draper Photograpy
As you continue mapping out your big day, keep exploring the WedPlan advice section for helpful planning guides, expert tips, and checklists to support you every step of the way. When you’re ready for more ideas, head over to our inspiration section or real weddings for creative details from couples and vendors throughout the region.
