Click
here for list of local businesses providing wedding cakes and catering
The Wedding Cake
The wedding cake itself and the ceremony of
cutting the cake is one of the highlights of the wedding reception. Guests enjoy
admiring the artistic cake creation, as well as confirming that it tastes as
good as it looks.
Wedding cakes, or some form thereof, have been a
traditional part of the wedding ceremony for hundreds of years.
You should plan to meet with the baker about
three months before the wedding. Be prepared to tell them the theme of your
wedding, as well as how many guests you are expecting. A general rule of thumb
here is for every five people, one pound of cake is needed. Your baker can
assist you with these calculations. Many bakeries can show you pictures of their
creations, and possibly will allow you to actually taste a sample of the flavor
you want. This is especially helpful if you are venturing into relatively new
flavors. Don't be afraid to try something out of the ordinary, it is your day!
Ordering the Cake
When finalising your cake order, be sure to get
the following in writing:
- description of the cake ordered, including the
size, flavor, filling and decorations of the cake.
- price of the cake
- deposit paid and the balance remaining
- delivery date and time
Cutting the Cake
Be prepared to cut your wedding cake! Ask
the baker for some directions as to the best way to cut the cake. Ask not only
how to cut the cake, but also what type of knife should be used. The caterers
could supply the knife or it may come with the cake. The knife is usually
decorated attractively with ribbons or flowers.
Caterers
Also see the article:
Choosing
a Caterer
Hiring a caterer to take care of your reception
needs is an important part of your planning. The catering could be a part of the
reception centre package or be an independent catering business that would
utilise the venue facilities or a private kitchen. The facilities and equipment
provided by venue and caterer has to be organised before you proceed to
establish and book your venue. Caterers offer a wide variety of hors d'oeuvres
and menu's to accommodate various tastes and budgets. The caterer or the venue
will supply the waiters, waitresses and the bartender - clarify who is
responsible for what. When you meet with the caterer be prepared to discuss the
number of guests you expect, your budget, and the facility. Quality caterers
will be happy to give you referrals of happy customers, show you their
equipment, including china, silverware, and linens. They are also accommodating
about preparing a sample meal for you to taste ahead of time. Be sure to get in
writing a breakdown of the following costs:
- what will be served
- the cost of the bartender
- what the place setting is made up of
- the number of waiters and waitresses that will
be working
