Price, workmanship, quality and taste vary considerably from baker to baker. In addition to flavor, size and cost, consider decoration and spoilage (sugar keeps longer than cream frostings). The cake should be beautifully displayed on its own table decorated with flowers or greenery. Make sure the baker, caterer, or reception site manager can provide you with a pretty cake-cutting knife. If not, you will need to purchase or rent one. When determining the size of the cake, don't forget that you'll be saving the top tier for your first anniversary. This top tier should be removed before the cake is cut, wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap or put inside a plastic container and kept frozen until your anniversary.

  Some bakers have set-up and delivery fees; some don't. Check for individuals who bake from their home. They are usually more reasonable, but you should check with your local health department before hiring one of these at-home bakers. Also, some caterers have contracts with bakeries and can pass on savings to you.

  Some bakeries require a deposit on columns and plates. Other bakeries use disposable columns and plates, saving you the rental fee and the hassle of returning these items.