Wedding Wednesdays: The Top 5 Tiers of Wedding Cake Dos and Don'ts

Whether a wedding cake is the least of your worries or high on the "must-obsess-over" list, The Knot's guide to getting the perfect cake has got you covered. From budgeting to picking out your flavors, they're here to answer all of your questions—before you even have any. Here are the top 5!

1. Don't choose a cake until you've made your major wedding style decisions.
You'll want a cake that's compatible with the look of your venue, the season, your wedding gown, the flower arrangements and the menu. Arrive at your cake consultation prepared—you don't need to have a complete sketch in hand, but knowledge of basic terms will make it easier on everyone. And if you're looking for a custom design, bring along inspiration, like a swatch of lace from your dress or a picture of your wedding china.

2. Do have a budget in mind.
Wedding cake is usually priced by the slice. The cost can vary, but it generally ranges from $3 to $30 a slice (and beyond). It's easy to be wooed by blood orange filling and a multi-flavor cake when you're making decisions with a sugar buzz, but having a handle on your budget—and knowing what will affect it—will allow you to prioritize your choices. For instance, more flavors equals more money; the more complicated the flavor, the bigger the price tag; handmade sugar flowers will add dollars to every slice; and fondant icing is generally more expensive than buttercream.

3. Do match the cake height to your space.
Generally, three tiers will serve 50 to 100, and you'll likely need five layers for 200 or more guests. Your cake should fit the space too—if your reception is in a grand ballroom, consider increasing the cake's stature with columns between the tiers, or opting for a faux Styrofoam layer (no one will know!) to add height.

4. Don't choose the flavor based on what everyone else wants. 
Besides being a showpiece, your cake should taste amazing too. When you meet with prospective bakers, taste lots of flavors. Don't be afraid to stray from vanilla and chocolate. And don't forget to sample fillings too—many bakers are working with complex flavorings, like guava and mango or hazelnut and mocha.

5. Do get the facts on frosting.
Buttercream or fondant? Buttercream is often much more delicious. But if you love the smooth, almost surreal-like look of fondant, consider frosting the cake in buttercream first and then adding a layer of fondant over the entire confection. Whatever type of icing you choose, stick to colors your guests will want to eat. If your wedding hues are blue and green, opt for a white cake with subtle green-frosted accents.

With The Knot's help, your decision-making process will be a piece of cake! Use the top 5 tiers and devour the details of picking out your wedding cake!