How to Build the Best Dessert Table for Your Wedding
You’ve found your one-and-only and you’re getting ready to tie the knot, but first you’ve got to get your dessert table situated. Non-traditional brides are always up for ways to take their wedding sweets to the next level, so we chatted with Randi Smith, wedding cake extraordinaire at Sugar Euphoria, who offered up advice on all things wedding desserts for your big day. She shared a few unconventional dessert ideas, ways to choose a signature dessert and her favorite resources for brides-to-be who are in need of some inspiration and DIY ideas. Scroll on to discover everything you need to know about building the best dessert table for your wedding.
Tell us a bit about you. How did you get started in wedding cakes?
“I started Sugar Euphoria in 2012 while I was in graduate school. It began as a hobby. I would bake cupcakes for my friends and classmates on the weekend. With encouragement from my now husband, I signed up for a cake decorating class at a local craft store. It didn’t take me long to discover my love of cake decorating. A few months later I signed up for a bridal expo and the rest is history!”
What are your top three tips for creating the ultimate wedding desserts table?
1. Commit to a theme. “I always encourage our couples to choose desserts that fit their overall look. For instance, if they’re creating a glamorous wedding, hand pies aren’t the way to go.”
2. Layer, layers and more layers. “Create interest by using cake stands, dessert trays and risers of varying height.”
3. Focus. “If you’re having a cake as well as mini desserts, make the cake the focal point of the table and decorate around it.”
What are your favorite 2016 wedding dessert trends?
“I’m loving the way couples are making their dessert tables a focal point of their reception by incorporating large and beautiful backdrops and towering stands. Another favorite trend is desserts that are decorated with flowers, metallic leaves and macaroons — especially cakes and cupcakes!
I also love when couples choose to have multiple mini cakes on display. It’s so pretty and really allows the cake designer the chance to incorporate different, yet complementary design elements.”
How do you think couples can most effectively choose their *signature* dessert? What should they keep in mind when trying to narrow down their choices?
“I always ask my couples two things: What are your favorite desserts of all time? and What dessert is special to you two as a couple? I find that it really helps them narrow down their choices for a signature dessert once they answer those questions.”
What is your favorite dessert choice for couples who have a limited budget?
“For couples on a limited budget, I usually suggest that they add mini cupcakes to their menu. They’re cute, inexpensive and guests typically only have one or two. Plus, if you have a variety of flavors, you’re sure to please everyone.”
Can you tell us a few of your favorite DIY touches that couples can incorporate to make their sweets table feel special?
“Decorating their table with personal touches is always a great idea. Framed photographs, a print of their favorite quote or menu cards written by the couple are perfect DIY options.”
Do you have any other advice for couples planning their wedding sweets?
“While I like to encourage couples to pick out signature desserts, I think it’s also wise to think of items their guests may like.”
What are the best resources available for couples who are planning their dessert table?
“I highly encourage brides to browse Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration. Local and regional magazines are another great resource, because they can become familiar with bakeries in their area who specialize in dessert tables.”
What is the ONE thing you wish you could tell all brides-to-be when planning their desserts table in a short amount of time?
“It’s important to be realistic yet optimistic about their options when planning a dessert table in a short amount of time. They may have to pay a little more or they may not be able to get all of the desserts that they dreamed of. And it’s okay if that happens, as long as they stay focused on the fact that they’re getting married!”
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(Photo via Sugar Euphoria)