3 Ways to Cut Wedding Cake Costs

Wedding cake prices range from $2 to $10 or more per serving, depending on the cake size, style, flavor, and other factors. A large guest list and more cake services can quickly sour a couple’s cake budget, but there are many ways to cut cake prices without sacrificing this sweet wedding tradition.

1. Go Faux

Once sliced, a wedding cake looks nothing like the designer decoration that graced the cake table. Instead of creating an edible masterpiece, couples can opt for false wedding cakes of beautifully decorated foam, cardboard, and icing, while the cake that is served is a much less expensive though equally tasty sheet cake. If you don’t like the idea of a fake cake on a day that should be filled with trust and sincerity, choose a smaller cake design and augment it with coordinating satellite cakes or cupcakes for extra servings and extra savings.

2. Make the Cut

Some wedding reception venues and wedding caterers charge hefty fees for slicing and serving a wedding cake. If your venue is one of these, learn how to slice the cake yourself and use it as an opportunity not only to save money, but also to greet each of your guests individually as the cake is served. This also creates numerous photo opportunities and fun memories past the ceremonial first taste.

3. Be Simply Delicious

The easiest way to take a slice out of wedding cake costs is to simplify. If you have your heart set on a gourmet cake flavor and exotic fillings, choose a less expensive, less elaborate cake design. If you’ve always envisioned a highly detailed cake with exquisite edible flowers and other accents, opt for a simple cake flavor such as vanilla buttercream or classic chocolate. By simplifying, you ensure that the cake is not overwhelming and is simply delicious, not only to your guests but to your budget.

Your wedding cake is a decadent dessert and a first sweet taste of married life, but it doesn’t have to take a hefty slice out of your budget.

Melissa Mayntz / www.melissamayntz.com