Questions for the baker

Bakeries vary greatly in prices and quality and so it is essential to choose a baker who can cater to your needs. However, to enable the baker to do this, it is up to you to ask the right questions. We have listed below some good questions to ask your baker when he is making your cake to ensure you are making the right choice.

Tasting Session: It is advisable to ask for a tasting session before ordering your cake. This will allow you to get a good idea of which flavor fillings, sponges and types of icing compliment each other. Some bakeries will even make a small mock-up cake for you so that you can get a feel for what it will taste like once everything is combined.

Custom Cakes: Making a cake from a photograph has become a popular idea amongst bride and grooms to be. However, it is important that you check whether there will be an extra fee for this service. Only ask this question if you are serious about wanting a custom designed cake.

Ask to see the baker’s portfolio: By showing you a portfolio of cakes the baker has already made, you can make a decision on whether you like their style, without having to commit to anything or taking up too much of the baker’s time.

Cake Preparation: Although the baking and icing of the cake is usually done days in advance, it is often a good idea to check with the baker when he will be undergoing this process. You do not want a cake to be baked anymore than 10 days in advance of the wedding. The cake also should not be iced until 2 days before the wedding.

Delivery and Set-Up: You will need to know whether the baker will deliver your cake and even if he/she will set it up for you also. This is vital information as some caterers do not like the responsibility of setting up the wedding cake in case something goes wrong. Some bakeries may charge for this service.

Additional Charges: Will the bakery be charging you for any additional items for example, pillars or cake tops? Some bakeries ask for a deposit on these items and it is also a good idea to ask how much they charge should these items not be returned in their original condition.

Once you have chosen your baker, you will need them to put everything in writing, to avoid confusion later on.