A Delicious Wedding Cake

History is uncertain who exactly said, "Let them eat cake!" The famous utterance is rumored to have been said by Marie Antoinette in response to peasants complaining of their hunger on the eve of the French Revolution but there is no documented evidence for certain. Never-the-less, cake is delicious and at just about every fete the guests look forward to eating cake.

The cake at your event or party presents itself as an artful and tasty expression. There are quite a few things to consider in the cake planning process with your caterer:

Design - Will your caterer "custom-make" your cake based on your individual preferences? Will you be choosing from pre-determined styles? It is not unusual for potential clients to request pictures of previously made cakes. As you look at your caterer’s portfolio of cakes, do you like what you see? Do the photos reflect good workmanship and creativity?

How is the cake made – Some caterers may use packaged cake mix while most use all homemade ingredients.

Price per serving - For a three-tiered cake, prices average $1.50 - $5.00 per slice. Price per serving varies based upon the design and decorations of the cake.

Delivery and set up charges - If your caterer is close by, there may not be an additional delivery charge. Some may charge $35-$60 for delivery. Usually, the set up charge is included in the price of the cake. Who will be setting up the cake - Talk to your caterer about how you'd like the cake table to be set up.

Extra charges for cake tops - If there are pillars or columns that are rented, ask how much the deposit is and about how and when those items need to be returned. Sometimes if the caterer is familiar with the party site, they may pick up those items on their own. Sometimes it will be your responsibility to return them.

Shapes & Sizes - Many shapes are now available to enhance and give a unique look to your cake. Many caterers offer oval, hexagon and heart shaped cakes - to name a few. A creative caterer can create just about any request. A square or round cake will likely serve more guests and it can be cut and served quickly.

Fancy Flavors - Choose a multi-flavored cake such as marble, lemon, carrot, spice and even cheesecake. Fillings include raspberry, coconut, strawberry, lemon, mocha and white chocolate cream. Icing on the Cake – Most caterers will offer a traditional white icing, butter cream, cream cheese, white chocolate icing, or rolled fondant.

Decorations - Here, your choices are endless…Caterers can decorate cakes with the look of embroidery, lace, appliqué or elegant drapes. Some choose cascades of fresh or confectionery flowers or satin ribbons that adorn the cake top. Some caterers are adept at painting designs on cakes for a truly exquisite look.

Fresh Flowers - When choosing decorations for your cake, fresh flowers are always a very popular choice. In addition, fresh flowers are a less expensive alternative than confectionery flowers. Roses, pansies, petunias, Easter lilies, tiger lilies, daisies, and orchids are often used. Choose your flowers for the cake carefully. Roses can wilt very quickly when they are not placed in water. By the time you cut your cake these flowers may not look as beautiful as when they were first arranged on the cake. Consult your caterer for the best choice of flowers.

When your guests sit to eat the cake they have been eyeing all night, you want to be certain that the cake tastes as good as it looks. Visit the following link for additional wedding resources: http://catering-services-directory.com

By Shelly Phegley
Published: 10/5/2006
 
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