The Cake and Catering

The Cake:

Wedding cake is as much a traditional part of the wedding as the bride being late and the best man fluffing his speech. Ceremonies just wouldn't be the same without the cutting of the cake.

Wedding cakes can come in so many different styles, sizes, shapes and flavours… that the list is endless. We all know what our favourite type of cake is, so why do people worry about what the guests might like? Personally I would stick to my favourite and eat it all myself. However, I know that not everybody shares the same view as me so here are 10 of the most popular cake flavours this year to help you choose a cake that everyone will enjoy.

10. Chocolate-almond cake, chocolate ganache, and mocha buttercream
9. Banana cake and chocolate buttercream
8. Coconut cake and lime buttercream
7. Hazelnut-almond cake, chocolate ganache, and raspberries
6. White cake, lemon buttercream, and raspberries
5. Chocolate devil’s food cake, chocolate ganache, and praline buttercream
4. Lemon cake, lemon curd, and vanilla buttercream
3. Yellow butter cake and chocolate buttercream and/or chocolate ganache
2. Chocolate devil’s food cake, vanilla buttercream, and raspberries
1. Chocolate devil’s food cake and vanilla buttercream

The Cake Tips.

· Choose your cake designer carefully and as early as possible.
· Know how many people will receive a slice, not forgetting those who can’t attend.
· Choose a cake style and shape that will suit your theme.
· Ask to see a range of different cakes or photographs of cakes, to help you decide.
· Ask for a sample tasting.
· Determine delivery and assembly arrangements.
· Ask if accessories for the top of cake are included in the price.
· Don’t forget about any dietry requirements your wedding guests may have (it is often best to avoid nuts just in case).
· Ensure that you get a written contract and receipt for your deposit.

Cutting the Cake.

Many couples are now forgoing the tradition of cutting the wedding cake. But cutting the wedding cake can provide you with an excellent opportunity for photographs as well as a romantic moment which can be cherished for years to come.
The first cut of the wedding cake symbolises the couples shared future.

The correct way to cut the cake is for the bride to hold the knife in her right hand and the groom’s hand closes over the top of hers. With the knife turned upside down (for luck) cut the first slice together. Make sure that your caterer has already cut through the icing to prevent you cake from toppling over.

Catering:

The type of catering you want will depend on the type of wedding you are having. If it is formal the chances are you will have chosen to have a sit down meal.
Large venues often have their own caters, but do not be afraid to try independent caters, most venues will allow you to bring in your own if you ask.
This advice also applies if you have decided to just have a buffet.
There are some advantages to not having a traditional sit down meal, such as avoiding seating plans and picky eaters.

Remember to ask your cater if they are able to cater for all dietary requirements. You should also check whether you can provide your own alcohol, most places charge a corkage which is a price they put on each bottle you bring in, ask for how much the corkage charge is well in advance and don’t b afraid to haggle.
You will also need to enquire as to whether or not the catering company you choose will provide the table cloths, china, glasses etc. If not this is an extra added cost for your budget as you may need to hire them.

Remember that it is important to think about your timing when organising your catering options. If you want a sit down meal and a buffet later on in the evening you will more than likely need to book the church early for your ceremony. If you opt out of the sit down meal and just have a buffet at your reception you will have more time to get ready in the morning as you can book the Church for a later time! Bear in mind that you can save money by just having a buffet and there are plenty of ideas out there to make your it interesting! You could have a themed buffet or some caterers offer miniature meals such as mini fish and chips or mini bangers and mash. As with all your wedding plans make sure you do your homework. The options are endless!