When you first start to plan your wedding, the cake is often thought of briefly, and then often forgotten. This is because everyone decides to put it under the “food category.” While it makes sense to do this, the truth is that, when you plan your wedding, you will find that not all caterers can provide a wedding cake, and that the wedding cake is not just food, but a decorative piece, as well.

      The wedding cake is actually a very important part of your ceremony. It plays a role in the reception, and if you believe in superstitions or traditions, for at least one year of your married life. There is a tradition that you need to keep the top tier of the cake until your first year anniversary. Traditionally, a slice of the top tier is eaten by the married couple on their first wedding anniversary for good luck. It is often stored in the freezer for the year.

      On the day of your wedding itself, however, your guests will probably not be eating the wedding cake. Though some weddings really do serve out the wedding cake itself, and simply take the top tier away, most couples choose to serve a different cake to their guests, and simply have the wedding cake on display during the reception. So, how do you save money by having a wedding cake and separate cakes for your guests?

      First, you can choose whether or not you will really serve your wedding cake or if you will serve your guests a different cake. If you have a real cake for your wedding cake, you may as well serve it, this will come out cheaper. Wedding cakes can be pretty expensive, and most bakers will charge a lot for the creation of a wedding cake. If you have a friend who bakes well, you may want to call in a special favor, and supply him/her with all the ingredients.

      If you don't have a baking wizard for a friend, you can try haggling with professional bakers, many of whom do want your business and may go down to your budget price. You can also try following the rule and NEVER SAY WEDDING. Ask a professional baker how much a three tiered cake would be. Mention that it's a party, and not a wedding. The price may drop to what you would be willing to pay.

      Next, you can cheat your wedding cake. Some wedding cakes are fake. Only the top tier and a part of the bottom tier are real. Everything else is a specialized foam that looks like and is decorated like the cake. This means the cake is used only for the ceremonial cutting of the cake, and the top tier is saved for the tradition. If you aren't into the tradition, though, or if you think eating year old cake is disgusting, you can have two foam tiers, and just one cake tier for the ceremonial cutting.

      Having this type of cake means you get to save on the price of the creation of a real wedding cake. It also means your guests will eat a different cake at the wedding reception. You can usually get great cheap cakes from local bakeshops and have the waiters slice them up nicely and serve a slice to each guest. They'll never know they're eating a different cake! Some brides choose to serve really yummy cupcakes (again, usually cheaper than cakes) instead, giving one to each guest.

      The method of serving a separate cake or cupcakes to your guests usually comes out cheaper than making a true wedding cake. However, remember to inquire at several bakeshops and again weigh your options. Look for the cheapest option that you will be happy with and go for that. Usually, as long as it is yummy, and you go through the rituals that you feel need to be done, then everyone is happy!

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