Baker’s Dozen—Tips For Your Cake

• See the baker’s portfolio of wedding cakes. If you don’t like his or her style, move on and try something else.
• Taste several samples. The ingredients don’t matter if you like the results.
• Brainstorm styles and designs with the baker. Each cake should be custom-made.
• Discuss alternatives to plastic bride and groom cake toppers.
• Order your cake at least three months in advance.
• Find out if the baker or the florist will add flowers to the cake and/or cake table. Don’t pay twice for that service.
• Square and round cakes are simplest and will serve more guests than oval or heart shaped confections.
• Get a total price in writing. This should include delivery, setup and the rental fee or deposit for pillars and columns.
• Expect to pay $2.00 to $12 per slice of cake, depending on the intricacy of the design, flavor, shape and icing.
• Expect to pay a 10 to 15 percent deposit when you place your order.
• The groom places his hand over your right hand when you cut the cake.
• Make arrangements for the return of any tiers, pillars or columns. If the baker won’t pick them up, find someone to return them for you.
• Save the top layer for a future celebration. Cake doesn’t hold its flavor long, so your one month anniversary is a good choice.