Wedding cakes - getting started

When to order

Plan to order your cake six months in advance. If you're marrying during peak wedding season (June–October) you may have to order it even sooner, especially if you want a big-name confectioner.

Do your homework

Turn to bridal magazines and visit Brides.com's Cakes Gallery to find styles and confectioners you love. Make a list and seek recommendations from friends or brides in your area.

Determine your cake style

Look to your personal style, wedding location, season, favorite color or flower, or your wedding dress as inspiration for your cake style. Are you having a beach reception? Perhaps a pale blue cake decorated with seashells would help set the mood.

Catering call

If your budget is tight, check to see whether your caterer can make a cake. Stick to a simple design, unless the caterer is also an experienced confectioner.

Tried and true

Stick with a baker you know. If you have a favorite bakery for birthday cakes and pastries, inquire about whether they create wedding confections.

Research thoroughly

Interview the baker in person, if possible, and ask to see samples of his or her work before you sign a contract. If you love a baker's style, but you don't know anyone who's worked with him or her, ask for references. If your request is denied, move on—that's a red flag.

Finalize your list

Determine a head count before you meet with a confectioner. The price of a wedding cake is calculated by number of servings and level of design.

Experience counts

Make sure the confectioner has experience creating the kind of cake and/or desserts you desire. Bring photos of cakes you like, swatches of your dress and images of your reception site.

Taste test

Before you commit to a baker, sample some cakes and fillings to make sure your confection will taste as good as it looks.

Icing 101

Discuss various options with your baker, but be sure to choose the right icing for your wedding location. For example, shy away from butter-cream and whipped cream icings if you're having an outdoor wedding. The heat causes the icing to melt.