Cakes
How to save money
Fresh finds
Top your cake with fresh fruit or flowers. Sugar-icing and marzipan decorations are labor-intensive and costly. Think lightweight fruits that won't sink into the cake, such as cherries, strawberries or small bunches of sugared grapes.
Simple designs
An easy-to-make Swiss dot pattern, for example, is less expensive than labor-intensive basket weaves or lace patterns. Cut costs even more by asking for a perfectly smooth surface with strips of wide ribbon tied around each tier.
Just for show
Have a small, beautiful wedding cake on display for the ceremonial cutting with extra sheet cakes waiting in the kitchen to serve your guests.
Delicious desserts
Do away with the traditional wedding cake in favor of cupcakes, pies, cheesecakes or pastries stacked on trays in tiers.
Fake it
If you want a tall, dramatic cake but don't have the cash to pay for it, ask your confectioner to make the bottom tiers out of real cake and the rest out of iced Styrofoam.
Nix the groom's cake
Though a fun tradition, groom's cakes can be pricey—especially if you're going for an elaborate theme.
Stick to one flavor
Variety is nice, but you'll save money if your baker only has to create one type of cake and filling.
Sizing it up
The savings are in the shape. A square cake will serve 10 to 30 percent more people than a round cake of the same dimensions.
Go with a pro
Novices, even a well-meaning friend, could end up costing you more in failed attempts.
Treasured toppers
An heirloom antique topper adds a personal touch—and a free way to decorate your cake.
