Bakery Checklist for a Wedding Cake
Before going to a bakery to choose your wedding cake, sit down with your spouse to be and figure out what kind of cake you would like. Come up with a list of instructions and questions to ask the baker. Consider items such as flavor of cake, the number of tiers, and type and flavor of frosting. Ask for pictures of previous cakes the bakery has done so you can see the work the baker does. Does this Spark an idea?
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Type of Cake and Fillings
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Each bakery is different and offers different flavors. Also, see if the bakery offers a tasting session so you can taste each flavor of cake. Tasting will ensure that you are choosing the cake that you want. Find out if the bakery make the cakes on site or if they are bought from an outside source. Filling options are practically limitless. Set up an additional tasting after deciding you like three types of cakes and three fillings. This way, the bakery can make the cake with the different fillings so you can choose. Ask if the fillings are homemade or purchased.
Icing Options, Layers and Shape
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Wedding cakes can be frosted with buttercream or fondant. Consider where you are having your reception when choosing your icing. If it's an outdoor wedding, choose fondant, which stands up better to outdoor heat. If you are having a indoor reception, either type of icing is appropriate. For layers, figure out how many guests you will have and work with your baker to determine the appropriate size. The design of the cake will also play a part in the number of layers. Shape options include square, round and heart-shaped.
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Design of Your Cake and Cake Toppers
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If you have a picture in mind from a magazine or online, make sure the bakery can duplicate pictures. If you do not have a design in mind, then find a baker who can sit down with you and design one. Look at the pictures the baker has and tell her what you like and see what she can draw out for you. Find out if the bakery supplies cake toppers or if you have to purchase one yourself. If the bakery does have cake toppers, does it have a variety such as fresh flowers, edible flowers, icing flowers, bride and groom, and unique toppers.
Other Important Checklist Items
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Find out if the bakery will deliver your cake. If not, you will need to figure out who will pick it up. If delivery is an option, find out if the cost includes setting up the cake. Also, find out if the bakery rents out cake stands or if you need to provide a stand. If your cake design includes pillars, find out how much they are to rent. Determine when the deposit needs to be made and how much it will be, and ask about a refund policy.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit wedding cake image by Gail Oswald from Fotolia.com