Cake StandUp

Typically, little thought is given to what a cake sits on as attention is devoted to the look and flavour of the confection.  But the base of the cake is a crucial ingredient of every design.…

Structure & Support:  An average wedding cake can weigh upwards of thirty pounds.  To ensure that your cake can "stand up" to being on display for many hours, it will need a firm stable base and internal structural supports, such as wooden or plastic dowels.  Be sure to discuss the support system and base of your cake with your vendor especially if you have a very large cake or an off-kilter design (such as a topsy turvy cake).  A base of choice for many designers is a cake drum, a strong board that is affordable, versatile and appropriate for most cakes.  Make sure that your designer uses cake drums that are at least 1/2 inch thick.

Presence:  Have you always dreamed of a pretty and classic three-tiered cake?  Are you hosting an intimate reception for a small group of guests?  If so, your cake will be relatively small and you may want to consider a base that will add height and enhance its presence.  Pedestal cake stands are a beautiful way to achieve this - with some planning and research you can find them in all shapes and sizes, old and new alike.

Accessorize:  If your cake will rest on a lovely pedestal stand treat your cake stand as an accessory – look for shades of caramel, a bold green or any colour that will complement your design.  This makes a particularly striking look with traditional white cakes or ones in monochromatic tones.  Use beautiful satin or grosgain ribbon, available in a multitude of colours and textures, to trim a cake drum base if a stand is not being used.

*Thank you to Pattern Glass (www.patternglass.com) for use of photo.  Cake stand shown is 9” square, dated from 1890s and features a green beaded grape pattern.  Purchase through Pattern Glass ($325 USD).  Cake stands are available in a variety of sizes for under $100 USD.  Shipping is available to Canada.