Wedding Cake or Dessert Table? A guide to choosing

Congratulations! You’re getting married! As a wedding planner, I know that the wedding planning process can be both exciting and stressful. There are so many details to consider, from the venue and flowers to the food and entertainment. One of the most important aspects of any wedding celebration is the dessert. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to choose between a wedding cake or a dessert table. In this article, we’ll guide you through the decision-making process and help you decide which option is right for you.

Wedding Cake vs. Dessert Table: Which One to Choose?

A wedding cake is a traditional part of any wedding celebration. But in recent years, dessert tables have become increasingly popular. So how do you choose between the two? Here are some factors to consider:

Budget

The first factor to consider is your budget. Wedding cakes can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for a custom design or multiple tiers. Dessert tables, on the other hand, can be more cost-effective, especially if you have a variety of desserts to choose from. Consider your budget and the number of guests you’re inviting when making your decision.

Prsonal Preferences

Another factor to consider is your personal preferences. Do you love cake? Are you a fan of sweets? If you’re a cake person, then a traditional wedding cake may be the best option for you. But if you prefer a variety of sweets, a dessert table may be more your style. Consider your personal tastes and what you think your guests will enjoy.

Venue

The venue where you’re having your wedding may also play a role in your decision. Some venues have restrictions on what type of food can be served, so it’s important to check with your venue before making a decision. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, a dessert table may be a better option since it’s easier to serve and can withstand the elements.

Wedding Theme

The theme of your wedding may also play a role in your decision. If you’re having a traditional wedding, a wedding cake may be the perfect fit. But if you’re having a more casual or modern wedding, a dessert table may be more appropriate. Consider your wedding theme and how your dessert choice will fit into the overall aesthetic.

Wedding Cake: Pros and Cons

If you’re leaning towards a traditional wedding cake, here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

1. Beautiful centerpiece:
   A wedding cake is a beautiful centerpiece for any wedding reception.
2. Traditional:
   A wedding cake is a traditional part of any wedding celebration.
3. Customizable:
   You can work with a cake designer to create a custom cake that fits your wedding theme and personal preferences.

Cons

1. Expensive:
   Wedding cakes can be expensive, especially if you’re looking for a custom design or multiple tiers.
2. Limited options:
   With a wedding cake, you’re limited to one type of dessert.
3. Waste:
   Depending on the size of your cake, you may end up with a lot of waste.

Dessert Table: Pros and Cons

If you’re leaning towards a dessert table, here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros

1. Variety:
   With a dessert table, you can offer your guests a variety of desserts to choose from.
2. Cost-effective:
   A dessert table can be more cost-effective than a wedding cake, especially if you have a variety of desserts to choose from.
3. No waste:
   With a dessert table, you can control the amount of food that is being served and reduce waste.

Cons

1. More work:
   A dessert table can require more work to set up and maintain throughout the reception.
2. Less formal:
   A dessert table may be less formal than a traditional wedding cake.
3. Limited customization:
   With a dessert table, you may be limited in terms of customization and design.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dessert

No matter which option you choose, there are some tips you can follow to ensure that your wedding dessert is perfect:

Consider your guests

When choosing a wedding dessert, it’s important to consider your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions. If you have guests who are gluten-free or vegan, be sure to have options available for them.

Think outside the box

If you’re leaning towards a dessert table, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Consider offering unique desserts, like mini pies or macarons, to add some variety to your spread.

Match your wedding theme

Your dessert should match the overall theme and aesthetic of your wedding. If you’re having a rustic wedding, consider a dessert table featuring homemade pies and desserts. If you’re having a more formal wedding, a traditional wedding cake may be the perfect fit.

Work with a professional

If you’re opting for a wedding cake, be sure to work with a professional cake designer. They can help you create a custom cake that fits your wedding theme and personal preferences.

Conclusion

Choosing between a wedding cake and a dessert table can be a difficult decision. Consider your budget, personal preferences, venue, and wedding theme when making your decision. Whether you opt for a traditional wedding cake or a dessert table, be sure to follow our tips to ensure that your wedding dessert is perfect.

FAQs

1. How much should I expect to pay for a wedding cake?

The cost of a wedding cake can vary widely depending on the design and number of tiers. On average, couples spend between $300-$700 on their wedding cake.

2. Can I have a wedding cake and a dessert table?

Absolutely! Many couples opt to have both a wedding cake and a dessert table to offer their guests a variety of options.

3. What types of desserts can I include in a dessert table?

You can include a variety of desserts in a dessert table, from mini pies and cupcakes to cookies and macarons.

4. How far in advance should I order my wedding cake or dessert table?

It’s best to order your wedding cake or dessert table at least three months in advance to ensure availability and to allow time for design and customization.

5. Can I make my own wedding cake or dessert table?

While it’s certainly possible to make your own wedding cake or dessert table, it can be a lot of work and can add to your wedding day stress. It’s often best to leave it to the professionals to ensure that your dessert is perfect.