There are many specialist cake-makers, both companies and individuals, and you may even find that the hotel or reception venue or your caterers will make a wedding cake for you. Looking through bride magazines is a good starting point for inspiration on design, and you will also find the contact numbers for companies making cakes.

- DO ask for friends’ recommendations.
- DO visit several suppliers before making a decision.
- DO ask to see a portfolio of the types of cakes available.
- DO ask to taste a sample of the cake you are ordering.
- DO order at least three months in advance.

Always ask for a written quote and check that it includes any pillars necessary, display trays or stands, and any other decorations. For a simple, traditional three-tier cake you should expect to pay at least £150 and a recent You and YourWedding survey put the average cost
at £198. For a more elaborate and unusual design you could easily pay double these amounts. There are also many people who run their own businesses making wedding cakes from home and they are often excellent value for money. As with a larger company, ask to see photographs of previous work and, if possible, taste a sample. Word of mouth is the best way of finding independent local makers.

The finished cake is usually delivered to the caterers (or reception venue if they are organising food) the day before the wedding. But you should be very clear about the delivery details and make sure that each separate tier is carefully packed in its own box. The cake should not be assembled until the day of the wedding, when it should be decorated ready for display.