Wedding Cake Tip #2 - Know Your Site Vendor's Policies

Since this website is about wedding cake tips, many couples might ask what the wedding cake could possibly have to do with the reception venue? But there are many reasons for the bride and groom to familiarize themselves with the site vendor's policies before choosing a wedding cake.

First, there is a significant difference between self-serve halls where one is responsible for decorating the hall, bringing their own food or hiring a caterer, serving and cleanup versus a banquet hall or venues that provide the full service of food preparation, serving and cleanup. For full-service venues, they have specific rules for bringing in outside food. Since your wedding cake is meant to eat, there may be restrictions.

Second, although the venue may permit outside bakers to supply the cake, the venue might require that a baker be chosen from a list of approved vendors. In other words, you may be forced to choose a cake supplier with whom the venue works.

Third, the venue may not permit particular types of displays. For example, they may refuse the use of sparklers and petals. It is up to you to understand the venues rules before finalizing your wedding cake design with the baker.

Fourth, in scenarios where you are free to order your cake from whomever you choose, you need to find out how soon in advance the baker will be permitted to enter the hall for setup. In some instances, depending on how big and how elaborate the wedding cake display, the baker may need a few hours preparation time.

Fifth, in the same vein as the setup, depending on the type of cake chosen, the wedding cake might need to be refrigerated until use. For example, cakes with cream or pudding fillings cannot stay out in the open for more than about two hours. You will need to make arrangements with the venue to store the cake until needed.

Sixth, some venues do not permit outside workers in their venues. If this is the case, the baker will deliver the cake, but detailed instructions will be required by the venue. It is up to the bride and groom to ensure that the baker provides the details, and the venue receives the details and implements them. Of course, the couple can choose a designated person such as one of the wedding party or a close friend or family member to oversee this function. This is often the case on island wedding locations who take full control of their venue.

Seventh, couples should inquire about serving plates used to hold the cake, utensils, columns and other display requirements. In most instances, the baker will already have arranged with the couple for these items, as they will be part of the formal contract since there is usually a cost associated with renting these items. But it is important to read the venue's contract to ensure that you are allowed to bring in all these items. Also, if you are choosing a special cake serving knife set, then make sure it is added to the cake's display table.

Indeed, there may be other considerations, but these should be discussed and obtained in writing from the venue immediately upon booking and before ordering any other services including the wedding cake.