Cakes now come in different shapes and flavors, but before you order one for the big day, check out these key points to think about to help you decide on the cake to get.

Budget

While you may want a lavish towering cake, always keep your wedding budget in mind. Remember, the more edible layers there are on your cake, the more dough (pun intended) you'll need to shell out. If you have your heart set on a cake with multiple layers, but you're working with a smaller budget, ask your baker to make just the bottom part edible. The other layers will also be covered in icing, but they'll just be for show as they're usually made of styrofoam.

Reception Venue

The reception venue plays an important role in determining the kind of wedding cake you should have. Various cake flavors and icing react differently to humid and cool temperatures, and as your cake is an element that is dealt with during the latter stages of your reception, your cake should be able to withstand the conditions of your venue. For outdoor venues, a fondant cake is your best bet since the icing won't melt. On the other hand, buttercream-frosted cakes are better off in cool, dry venues.

Number of guests

The size of your wedding party will definitely determine how much cake you need. Ask your baker if s/he has a serving chart. The thickness of each slice depends on the height of the cake, but guests are usually served with slices that are an inch or two thick. You might also want to ask for a diagram for cutting the cake, so you'll know if there are enough slices for everyone.

Other Dishes and Desserts Served

When thinking of a flavor for your cake, consider not only what you and your hubby's favorite flavors are, but also the meals that will be served during your reception. As a dessert dish, your cake should complement the entrées of your reception menu, especially if you will be serving your cake.

Also, the number of desserts served during the reception can help you determine whether you need a larger or smaller cake. If the cake will be the only dessert you'll serve, you'll need a larger slice for each guest. However, if you'll be serving cake alongside other dishes, you can give guests smaller cake slices.

Your Theme

When choosing a design for your cake, remember that it should go with your wedding's theme. You may have a lot of quirky and fun ideas for your cake, but try to edit your ideas so your cake still matches other elements of your wedding. Remember, the cake is displayed during your reception for everyone to see, and it would be an eyesore if it follows a concept that's entirely different from the rest of your wedding details.

To see suppliers for wedding cakes, click here.

You might also want to check:

• How to Save on Your Wedding Cake
• Floral Cake Decor 
• Wedding Cake Topper 
• Alternatives to Wedding Cakes 
• Piece of Cake