Bakery Prices for Your Wedding: Guides, Tips, and Real Costs

When you start planning your big day, the first thing that pops into most minds is the dress, the venue, or the photographer. The bakery? Not so much. Yet the cost of a wedding cake or dessert table can eat up a huge chunk of your budget if you’re not prepared. Below you’ll find the basics on how bakeries price their work, what to expect in 2025, and smart ways to keep taste and style without breaking the bank.

How Much Does a Wedding Cake Really Cost?

Most bakers charge by the slice, the tier, and the level of detail. A simple two‑tier, 20‑slice cake with basic buttercream can run anywhere from £800 to £1,200. Add fancy fondant, custom sculptures, or premium flavors and the price can jump to £2,000‑£3,500. Seasonal fruit, fresh flowers, or a hand‑painted design each add a few hundred pounds.

If you’re looking at a larger cake—say six tiers for a 150‑guest celebration—expect the base price to start around £2,500. Every extra tier generally adds £200‑£400, depending on size and decoration. Some bakeries also include delivery, setup, and teardown in the quote, while others charge those separately.

Don’t forget the hidden costs: cake tasting sessions (often £50‑£100 per person), extra cake boards, and a small tip for the team that assembles and plates the cake on the day.

Saving Money Without Skimping on Taste

First, think about portion size. A 20‑slice cake feeds about 30‑35 people when you factor in the fact that guests usually take a small slice. If you have a large guest list, consider a smaller display cake with a separate sheet cake hidden in the kitchen. This combo can cut costs by 30‑40% while still giving you a stunning centerpiece.

Second, look at alternative desserts. Cupcakes, macarons, or a dessert buffet often cost less per head than a tiered cake. A cupcake tower for 100 guests can be around £1,200, which is typically cheaper than a full six‑tier cake with the same level of decoration.

Third, keep flavors simple. Classic vanilla, chocolate, or red‑velvet with a fresh fruit filling are usually priced lower than exotic options like lavender‑infused or salted caramel with fresh berries. You can always add a seasonal fruit garnish for a fancy look without the extra charge.

Finally, book early. Many bakeries offer a 10‑15% discount if you lock in your date at least six months ahead. They also have more time to source seasonal ingredients, which can lower material costs.

Bottom line: bakery prices vary widely, but by understanding how tiers, decorations, and extra services affect the final number, you can make smarter choices. Whether you go for a classic tiered cake or a modern dessert table, the key is to plan ahead, ask for a detailed breakdown, and look for ways to get the most flavor for your money.

Use the tips above as a checklist when you start talking to bakers. Keep your priorities clear—taste, design, or budget—and you’ll walk away with a sweet treat that matches your vision and your wallet.