I believe the cake is one of the most anticipated elements of any wedding, second only to the bride! Of course, I might be just a little biased. As a cake designer and the owner of Just Cake in California, I have dedicated my career to making wedding cakes that are as innovative and unique as each of my couples.
Still, cake credentials aside, I think most wedding guests would agree that the cake is the piece de resistance of any wedding. The wedding cake is often the focal point of the reception and most guests look forward to the wedding cake with anticipation as they imagine what the cake will look and taste like. In essence, the wedding cake tends to sum up the event, so it's no wonder that the wedding cake remains one of the most enduring wedding traditions.
After creating innumerable wedding cakes and working with brides of every age, demographic, and taste profile, I think the best piece of advice I can give to nervous brides out there is this: Be true to yourself. Personalization is the key to achieving your dream confection. Ask yourself: What will make you smile? The cake is something you only have "one" of, so it doesn't have to match every other element of your event. It's an opportunity to carry a theme through or permission to depart from tradition all together and create something completely unique and wonderful.
Sometimes the answer is an over-the-top whimsical design that will make your guests jaws drop! Another avenue may be a modern interpretation of your grandparents "vintage" cake. A design that means a lot to you personally is the best design as far as I'm concerned. One of the best compliments I can receive after designing a cake is "that is so us!" A true cake artist can and should conjure up a design that will evoke any range of emotion you desire.
A few tips before meeting with a cake artist:
- Do your homework. Have an idea of the general styles, shapes and colors you are attracted to prior to your meeting. There is very little even the best artist can do with: "I don't know."