This week, we’ll look at your cake.  We only have $150 allotted for the cake, according to our budget.  For this example, we will act as if we have exhausted all our other funds in other areas.  However, if you have saved money in other areas—like we did for reception or invitations, you can take that money and add it to your cake budget.  I know $150 doesn’t seem like a lot. But with an invited guest list of only 50 people (MAX! I can’t stress this enough), more likely than not, you may have a little less show, which of course will work to your benefit. 

Talk to a local baker about their smaller wedding cakes.  Many make “elopement cakes” that will be enough for your guests.  A small, simple two tiered cake will be just enough for your family and friends.  You can also ask if they can create a cupcake order, which you can set up decoratively on a cupcake tower.  Towers are available for rent or you can purchase them. Check out these greats by Pink Cake Box.

You may also opt for a cake from a supermarket chain like Publix.  Cakes like Gentle Touch or Lovers for a Lifetime (flowers and topper not included) are great places to start your search.  All of the cakes can be sized to fit your amount of guests.  Ordering is easy, and you can fill out most information online to take to your local store.  Their designs may not be very elaborate, but the cakes are affordable and taste good.

So instead, if you have negotiated or allotted for desserts with your meal, get a cake for only 50-75% of your guests.  Even if you do not do an additional dessert, you may want to opt for a cake for 75% of your list.  You may want to sacrifice design for taste and add fillings and icings, or eliminate them altogether to cut cake costs.