Choosing the Perfect Wedding Cake: A Guide for Calgary Brides
1. Define Your Budget
Before diving into the design, it’s important to set a budget for your wedding cake. The cost can vary widely depending on the size, complexity, and customization of the cake. In Calgary, wedding cakes can range from $400 to $1,200 or more. To keep costs in check:
Consider the number of guests and how many servings you’ll need.
Explore options like smaller display cakes with additional sheet cakes to serve guests.
Ask your baker about semi-naked cakes or buttercream finishes, which are often more affordable than fondant-covered cakes.
2. Research Calgary Bakeries
Calgary is home to a range of talented cake designers, from boutique cake shops to high-end pastry chefs. Popular options include:
Whippt Desserts & Catering, known for their beautiful buttercream and fondant creations.
Pretty Sweet Bakery, specializing in trendy, minimalist cake designs.
Sweet Relief Pastries, famous for their delicious gluten-free and vegan cake options.
It's important to visit a few bakeries for consultations and tastings to find a designer who matches your vision and can deliver on both taste and aesthetics.
3. Match the Cake to Your Wedding Theme
Your wedding cake should be an extension of your wedding’s overall theme and vibe. Whether you’re going for a classic, rustic, or modern look, Calgary cake designers can create cakes that seamlessly blend into the decor. For example:
Classic or Elegant: Opt for a traditional tiered cake with smooth fondant and delicate sugar flowers.
Rustic or Outdoor: A semi-naked cake adorned with fresh flowers or berries is perfect for mountain weddings or garden receptions.
Modern or Glam: Metallic accents, geometric shapes, and watercolor designs are all trendy options for chic, urban weddings.
4. Consider Seasonal Flavors
Calgary’s local cake designers often incorporate seasonal ingredients into their creations, ensuring your cake is fresh and flavorful. When choosing flavors, think about the season of your wedding:
Spring/Summer: Light and fresh flavors like lemon-raspberry, vanilla with berry compote, or coconut with passionfruit are great for warmer months.
Fall/Winter: Richer flavors like chocolate-hazelnut, spiced carrot cake, or salted caramel are ideal for a cozy winter wedding.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors between tiers. Many couples in Calgary love giving their guests a choice of different flavor combinations.
5. Plan Your Cake Tasting
One of the most fun parts of choosing your wedding cake is the tasting! Book tastings at several Calgary bakeries to compare flavor options and sample different combinations. When tasting:
Bring your fiancé, and if possible, your wedding planner or a close friend for a second opinion.
Ask about fillings, frostings, and unique flavor pairings.
Inquire about dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, vegan) if needed.
Confirm any additional fees for custom designs, delivery, and setup on your wedding day.
6. Cake Size & Serving Considerations
When determining the size of your cake, remember that it doesn’t have to match your guest count exactly. If you’re having a small wedding but still want the look of a grand tiered cake, consider:
Fake tiers: Styrofoam layers can be decorated like the rest of the cake to give the appearance of more tiers without the cost.
Sheet cakes: Serve sheet cakes from the kitchen to guests while keeping a smaller display cake for cutting and photos.
Calgary bakeries are skilled at balancing design and practicality to create a cake that works for your guest count and budget.
7. Delivery and Setup
Wedding cakes are delicate, so it’s essential to ensure proper delivery and setup on the day of your wedding. Calgary’s unpredictable weather and varied venues can add logistical challenges, so confirm that your baker offers delivery to your venue and will handle the setup. Be sure to coordinate the delivery time to align with your wedding day schedule.
8. Final Touches: Cake Toppers and Displays
Personalize your cake with a topper that matches your style. Calgary bakers offer custom toppers, or you can source them from local artisans or online shops like Etsy. Additionally, consider the cake stand and table display—whether it’s adorned with florals, candles, or a backdrop that complements the cake design.
By following these steps, Calgary brides can ensure their wedding cake is not only a delicious treat but also a stunning visual centerpiece that adds to the magic of their special day. Whether you opt for a grand, multi-tiered masterpiece or a simple yet elegant design, your wedding cake will be a sweet reflection of your love story.