Tips for Choosing the Right Cake Size

Choosing the Right Size for Your Wedding Cake

Picking the perfect size for your wedding cake can be surprisingly simple — especially if budget and leftovers aren’t your main concerns. While your cake maker will guide you through the process, it helps to understand a few key factors that could influence your decision (some might even surprise you!).

Many couples begin by focusing on the design of their dream cake, leaving size as an afterthought. But the design you fall in love with might not suit your guest count or serving style, meaning adjustments to the size or proportions may be needed.

Things to Consider

Guest CountKnowing how many people you’ll be serving is the best starting point.

Serving StyleWill the cake be served as dessert or later in the evening? Dessert slices are typically larger than finger portions.

LeftoversDo you plan to keep a tier for yourselves or share extra slices with loved ones the next day?

Portion Planning Tips

When serving finger portions, most cake makers suggest catering for around 75–80% of your total guest count. By the time cake is served, some guests may have left or might skip dessert if evening snacks are available. Ordering slightly less helps minimise waste while still ensuring everyone who wants cake gets a slice.

If the cake will be served as dessert, make sure there’s enough for every guest at the wedding breakfast — and add a few extra portions just in case. It’s always better to have a little more than to run out, especially when cake is the grand finale!

What About Leftovers?

Every couple is different. Some love having extra cake to enjoy or share after the big day, while others prefer not to have any leftovers — particularly if they’re jetting off on honeymoon. There’s no right or wrong choice; it’s simply about what suits you best.

Where Style Meets Slice Count

Once you know how much cake you’ll need, consider whether the size aligns with your design vision.

Too Big?Opt for a cutting cake — a separate, hidden cake served from the kitchen. Your guests won’t notice, and you’ll avoid unnecessary leftovers.

Too Small?If your budget allows, you can size up for extra visual impact. Or, for a show-stopping look without the excess portions, add dummy tiers — decorated polystyrene tiers that blend seamlessly with the real cake.

Just note: swapping real cake for dummy tiers doesn’t always save much money, since most of the cost lies in the decoration and craftsmanship.

The Ideal Cake Equation

Whether you want generous leftovers or a statement cake without waste, there’s a perfect balance for every couple. Your cake maker can help you find that sweet spot between design, portion size, and practicality — so you can focus on enjoying every delicious moment of your day (and maybe the last slice, too!).