How to Place the Cake at Your Wedding Reception

Once you’ve determined what kind of cake to have at your wedding, and how you would like it decorated, it's time to decide where to place the cake at your reception. This can be a lot like arranging the furniture of a room, and by considering just a few simple options, you'll be able to get it just right.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Two tables
• A very steady hand (yours or the cake maker's)
• Table linen
• Cake
• Decorations and favors

1. Evaluate the reception hall. You want to "show off" your cake, so think about the best place for guests to admire (and access!) the cake.
2. Dress a table for the cake with a nice table cloth. Make sure the table is sturdy and strong, in case your cake is heavy.
3. Decorate the table to complement the style of your wedding. It’s common to use flower pedals or even whole flowers on the table with your cake, and personal pictures add a nice touch, too.
4. Center the cake on the table, placing it carefully. Large cakes can be fragile, so it’s best to place them with a steady hand. Make sure that the cake is centered and angled correctly for optimal viewing.
5. Place another table next to the cake for plates and silverware. This table is often to the right of the cake so guests can form an orderly line.

Who Can Help:

• Find Decorators & Designers Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.

Tips & Warnings

• Often, cake makers will come and place the cake for you, as part of their services. Take advantage of this, as placing a large, multi-layered cake can be very difficult.
• Position the cake in an easily visible and accessible spot. You want everyone to be able to see the cutting of the cake (and rehearse this afterwards).
• Try decorating the table with a brightly-colored table cloth or a replica of the bridal bouquet for a custom touch.
• Avoid putting the cake too close to the bar.
• People who make wedding cakes have a saying: “The wedding cake should only be carried by the person that made it or the person that bought it.” And for good reason. It is often best to have the chef or the decorator personally deliver and place the cake for you.