How Much Does a Wedding Cake Cost?
“Bianca was super professional at all times. The design of the cake was superb! And the cake tasted amazing! Thanks ‘Beez Cakes’ for making my day the best it could be!”
When planning a wedding, getting a clear idea of costs is essential—especially if you’re working within a budget. Wedding cakes can vary significantly in price, depending on several factors. Let’s explore what influences these costs and how you can make informed decisions.
What Factors affect wedding cake costs?
Ingredients
The cost of ingredients plays a crucial role in determining a wedding cake’s price. Some wedding cake designers use premium ingredients such as organic flour and eggs, real vanilla bean paste and artisan chocolate which can elevate costs. While these ingredients enhance flavour and quality, they come at a higher price point.
Size
When it comes to the wedding cake size does matter and will have a direct impact on pricing. Larger cakes designed to serve more guests will naturally cost more due to increased labour, ingredients and materials.
Design
The complexity of the design significantly impacts the cost. Intricate sugar flowers and elaborate decorations or unique techniques require more time and skill from wedding cake designers which inevitably leads to higher prices.
Additional decorations such as gold leaf, silk ribbons, sugar ruffles, stencilled designs, pearls or edible glitter, also add to the expense.
Choosing a simpler design can help keep costs manageable without sacrificing style.
Choice of Frosting
The type of frosting you choose can affect the overall price. Semi-iced cakes are more affordable than fully iced ones. Buttercream or ganache-covered cakes are generally less expensive than fondant-iced cakes. Fondant, being more costly and labor-intensive, often raises the price. Whether it is buttercream, ganache or fondant, not only will the cost in ingredients vary, but each one requires skill to apply with a flawless finish.
Flavours
Your choice of flavours can have an effect on pricing. Classic flavours such as vanilla, lemon, or chocolate are likely to cost less than bespoke flavours like passion fruit or pistachio. If your desired flavour is not on your cake designer’s menu, the costs associated with trialing, adjusting and creating the flavours to an exceptional standard will naturally be higher.
Location
Wedding cake designers in urban areas often have higher overheads compared to those in more rural settings. Where your cake is being made can affect the cost.
Reputation
Highly sought-after designers with a proven track record often charge premium rates. Their craftsmanship, professionalism, and established reputation are reflected in their pricing.
Set-up and Delivery
Delivery costs depend on the distance between your venue and the cake designer. Additionally, having the cake designer set up the cake ensures it looks perfect and any damage that occurs in transit can be fixed on-site.
From Costs to Choices: Now that you know what influences wedding cake costs, let’s look at practical ways to manage your budget while still achieving a stunning cake for your big day.
Wedding Cake Tips: How to save without compromising style
Adjust Portion Sizes: For a large crowd, reduce the portion sizes from dessert portions to finger slices. This works well if you are not serving the cake as dessert as part of the wedding breakfast, or you are serving other desserts alongside the cake. To work out how many portions you can get from each tier have a look at my portion guide.
Opt for Simple Designs: Many wedding cake designers will have a base price for simpler designs. These cakes can be still be elegant and stylish. You can personalise them with pre-purchased toppers or fresh flowers from your florist.
Choose a local wedding cake designer. Minimise delivery charges by selecting a cake designer near your venue. For example, choosing a cake designer based in the Lake District for a Lake District wedding will save on delivery costs compared to bringing in a cake designer from Central London.
Be flexible with flavours. Opting for classic flavours like vanilla or chocolate instead of premium or custom options can also help keep costs in check. While adventurous flavours are exciting, they may increase the price.
A Rough Guide to Wedding Cake Pricing
Curious about what you might spend on your wedding cake? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan:
Small, single-tier cake (serving up to 24): £150–£200
Ideal for intimate celebrations or as a charming centerpiece.Three-tier cake (serving 80–100): £575–£700
A timeless choice for medium-sized weddings, offering a perfect balance of beauty and practicality.Elaborate, custom-designed cakes: £1,000 and up
For those looking to make a bold statement with intricate designs and personalized touches.
When you choose to invest in a wedding cake with me, prices start at £715 (excluding delivery and setup) for a 3-tier cake serving up to 74 dessert portions or 148 finger slices.
Planning a smaller celebration? You can opt for a smaller cake paired with mini desserts of equal value to create a beautiful and versatile display for your guests.
By understanding these factors, you can enjoy a stunning cake that fits your vision and finances. Wondering how to strike the balance between style and budget? Ready to start planning? Get in touch here to start the journey. I’d love to help bring your dream wedding cake to life!
If you are not serving your wedding cake for dessert, finger sized portions are ideal.
Intricate sugar flowers and elaborate decorations or fondant-iced cakes inevitably lead to higher prices.