Dream Wedding Cake on a Budget
First thing is first - Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!
For me, when I think of a wedding one of the first things that comes to mind is the cake. I knew I wanted a cake that wowed… but I did not want those prices.
Don’t worry, it’s totally possible to have a beautiful and delicious wedding cake on a budget! Below are some ways to get your dream wedding cake without breaking the bank, and make sure to read to the end if you want to see which option I went with.
Opt for a smaller cake - You don't need a huge cake to make a statement. A smaller cake can still be beautiful and elegant, and will cost less than a larger one.
Choose a simple design - Intricate cake designs can be expensive, so consider a simpler design with fewer decorations. You can still add a personal touch with a cake topper or fresh flowers.
DIY decorations - If you're feeling crafty, consider making your own cake decorations. You can create simple yet beautiful decorations with items like ribbon, lace, or even paper flowers.
Shop around - Don't settle for the first bakery you find. Shop around and compare prices to find the best deal. Some grocery stores or wholesale clubs also offer affordable wedding cakes.
Ask your caterer if there is a cake package that is included or can be added.
Go for a non-traditional cake - If you're not set on a traditional tiered wedding cake, consider alternative options like cupcakes, donuts, or a dessert buffet. These options can be just as delicious and cost-effective.
So what did I do? Well…I combined a few of the above options!
One of my bridesmaids loved to bake, so I approached her and asked if she would be willing to bake and design the cake if I provided all of the materials and ingredients. Lucky for me she said yes.
As far as look I knew I wanted something elegant and timeless, which meant skipping the trendy cakes, the themed cakes, the cheesy toppers, and cakes that were one solid color that wasn’t a netueral (personal opinion). The cake itself was a simple off white and I added a little color with the flowers.
Next I gathered materials. I wanted big but didn’t necessarily need for the entire cake to be real… that’s right only the top two tiers were real cake. The bottom three tiers were actually foam cake rounds. I was looking at cake displays and thought… why couldn’t I do that?
My flowers were also fake, and I picked those up from Hobby Lobby.
You might be wondering, did the guest get to have cake? Of course! My catering package included a sheet cake at no additional cost. The guests all got personally handed a slice, while my husband and I enjoyed cutting our cake, taking photos, and enjoying a few bites.
All in my beautifully stunning cake cost me just under $175.00 (believe it or not the flowers were the most expensive).
I was able to get my dream cake that was beautiful not only on the big day but for years to come whenever I look back on photos. I even have the up-close shot as a piece of art in my house.
If you’re wondering about the cake stand, stay tuned for “Dreamy Cake Stand… On A Budget”.
What route will you take in order to get your dream cake for less?