Your Herts and Beds Wedding - April/May 2024 (Issue 103)

CAKES 45 BAKING UP SOME LOVE Be inspired by our talented experts to bring your dream wedding cake to life Calling all cake lovers! To help inspire your perfect wedding bake, we’ve gathered some of the top experts from around Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire to share their top tips to make dreams a reality. It’s essential to find a company that not only has plenty of experience but believes in your vision. They should be able to take your ideas and use their expertise to create something magical. A VINTAGE CLASSIC “Vintage cakes are definitely the most popular request; this style is timeless and gives such a classic look,” says Nancy at Motley Bakes. She continues, “It’s such a versatile style with many different piping styles, colour combinations, and some added real flair with cherries, bows, disco balls and even fresh flowers. Instead of round bakes, heart-shaped cakes or even tiered sheet cakes are also available. Some couples opt for a single tier, or it also looks amazing in the traditional tiered form. If you choose a vintage wedding bake, it will stand out and give that wow factor to events – they're my personal favourite to create!” SIZE MATTERS! “When it comes to choosing a cake size, the first step is to look at the number of guests you’re inviting,” says Sarah at Layers & Graces Cake Design. She adds, “Not everyone will wish for a piece of cake. Therefore, you do not need to cater to every guest. However, some may have seconds or decide to taste each flavour! Estimate the number of servings by approximating that 75 to 85 per cent of your loved ones will have a piece of cake. From there, determine whether you’d like leftovers to eat the following day and the size of the slice you’d like to serve. “Standard wedding cake or finger servings are one-inch by one-inch slices, while a larger dessert-size slice is one-inch by two-inches. The standard height of a wedding cake tier is approximately five-inches tall; however, if you opt for a taller eight-inch tier, this should be factored into sizing calculations as well. Ultimately, your wedding cake maker should work with you and advise on the best sizing options to help guide your choices. If you want a larger cake, your supplier will advise on how to make the cake taller by using separators such as acrylic tiers or dummies.” PERSONAL DETAILS “There are many ways to ensure your personalities shine through your wedding cake,” says Helen at Helen’s Homemade Cakery. She shares, “A good designer will talk you through them all and help you decide which options are best for you. Your cake should be a canvas for your favourite flavours that bring back happy memories or simply tantalise your taste buds. Do you adore the tanginess of lemon or the richness of salted caramel? Are you both chocoholics and perhaps you have a soft spot for carrot cake? Don’t be afraid to explore unique flavour combinations. “Add personal details to the décor. You can be bold or subtle. The decorations on your cake are like tiny brushstrokes painting a picture of your personality. Infuse favourite colours, hobbies, or inside jokes into the design. Think beyond flowers and consider incorporating elements that reflect shared interests and personalities. “If you’re a couple who loves to stand out, consider a fully themed cake! This doesn’t have to mean dragons and knights – although it can if that’s your thing. The cake on the top of the page is from a Halloween wedding, and the couple wanted an over-the-top vampire, witches, and werewolf theme. I threw everything at this cake, and they always wanted more! The only design element that stayed the same throughout was the Twilight wedding nightmare scene. "Think travel-theme adorned with miniature suitcases and landmarks. Even a subtle nod to your favourite movie genre can add a unique touch. Don’t be afraid to embrace a theme that reflects your personalities or shared passions. Whether you’re HELEN’S HOMEMADE CAKERY LAYERS & GRACES CAKE DESIGN THE MAD BATTER’S BAKED GOODS www.beckyharleyphotography.co.uk www.tomhalliday.com

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