Wedding Cake Guide: Ideas, Budget & Size Tips

Planning a wedding means juggling a lot of details, and the cake often steals the show. Whether you want a classic white tier or a funky flavored stack, the right cake can make your day unforgettable. Below are the basics you need to feel confident about picking, paying for, and serving your wedding cake.

How Much Should a Wedding Cake Cost?

In 2025 the average wedding cake ranges from £200 for a simple two‑tier design to over £1,500 for a custom masterpiece. Your budget will depend on size, flavors, and decorations. A good rule of thumb is to allocate about 5 % of your overall wedding budget to the cake. If you’re tight on cash, ask the bakery for a basic design and add fresh flowers or a simple drizzle yourself – it saves money without looking cheap.

Choosing the Right Size and Design

Start by counting your guests. A single‑tier cake serves roughly 12–15 people, a two‑tier about 30–40, and each additional tier adds another 20‑30 servings. Use an online cake‑serving chart or ask the baker for a quick estimate. When you know the numbers, decide if you want a tall show‑stopper or a shorter, more budget‑friendly option. Many couples pick a small display cake for the photos and serve a larger sheet cake or cupcakes to the guests – it’s a smart way to stretch the budget.

Flavor choices have gone beyond vanilla and chocolate. Red velvet, lemon‑raspberry, matcha, and salted caramel are all popular right now. Talk to your baker about flavor combos and ask for a tasting session – most bakeries offer a free or low‑cost sample for the bride and groom.

Decoration trends this year lean toward fresh flowers, hand‑painted details, and minimalist shades like blush or dusty blue. If you love a certain theme, bring photos to the bakery; they can suggest how to translate it into icing without blowing up the price.

Timing matters. Order your cake at least three months before the wedding to lock in the design and price. Confirm the final details two weeks out and ask for a written contract that includes delivery, set‑up, and any extra fees for cutting the cake.

DIY isn’t for everyone, but if you’re comfortable in the kitchen, a simple naked cake can look stunning with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. Just make sure you have a reliable recipe, a good stand mixer, and a level cake board. Remember to practice the frosting and stacking at least once before the big day.

Storing the cake after the wedding is easier than you think. If you have leftovers, keep the layers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the cake in a sturdy box and thaw it slowly in the refrigerator the night before you serve it.

Finally, enjoy the process. The wedding cake is a chance to showcase something sweet that reflects your taste as a couple. With a clear budget, right size, and a flavor you love, the cake will be the highlight of your celebration without causing stress.