Here is a selection of Q&As from Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding magazine whether it be about flowers, hair and makeup, fashion, wedding themes, health & beauty, cakes, stationery, legal advice. If you would like your question answered by our experts, please email it to editor@yourcheshiremerseyside.wedding
To view more expert advice on a different topic, please select one from the list below.
Something for everyone
Q. We have a lot of guests with dietary requirements coming to our wedding, not least my husband-to-be. But we'd still like them to be able to enjoy our cake. Is this possible?
A. Debbie Fenton says: ndeed, it's essential that dietary requirements are considered when catering for your guests for the safety and accommodation of everyone involved. But, there are plenty of flavour options to meet the needs of most. It just means there could be a few restrictions when it comes to certain designs and styles, since working with free-from ingredients can have its challenges in terms of structure and finish.
Always ask lots of questions about what's involved and make sure your cake maker adheres to food safety rules set by the government in terms of allergens.
Debbie Fenton, Lois’s Little Cake & Chocolate Co.
loislittlecakecompany.com
A taste of autumn
Q. How can we reflect the best of the autumn through our wedding cake?
A. Daljeet Bawa says: For me, the best of autumn is the array of colours and warm food on a cold, rainy night. If you're having a wedding at this time of year, here are four ways to incorporate the season into your cake:
- Flowers. A simple yet stunning way to bring your day together, incorporate your wedding florals onto your cake to add a pop of colour.
- Flavours. A heavier, spiced or currant-filled sponge is perfect for an autumnal wedding. We offer flavours such a custard cake with spiced cinnamon apple compote, and sticky toffee with dates and all spice, which are both ideal for bringing in those warm, spicy notes.
- Coloured tiers. This is sure to make a statement! However, if you've been thinking about creating a display for your cake, or if you've hired a venue stylist, then I'd recommend this option. Your big-day bake will be remembered for all the right reasons.
- Ribbon. Simple and stylish. A luxurious ribbon can effortlessly bring in those classic autumnal hues. It's one of the most underrated details you can have on a cake. Perfect for all those classic couples out there, and easy on the budget too!
Daljeet Bawa, At Home Bakes
athomebakes.co.uk
Seasonal sweet treats
Q. How can we reflect the autumn season in our wedding cake?
A. Debbie Fenton says: With the first half of 2021 continuing to be a challenge for so many couples, we've seen a trend towards downsized wedding cakes due to uncertainty over guests attending. But this has meant a comeback for cupcakes and mini cakes as they can be taken away or sent to loved ones who can't make it.
There are still some dominant designs that are here to stay for 2021 and 2022. The buttercream wedding cake for example can be adapted according to the time of year by dressing it with seasonal flowers and foliage. Autumn bakes always look stunning with various shades of green and white blooms, along with some willow and berry fillers.
We're also seeing an increase in painted cakes. Having your cake adorned in a painted scene depicting something special to you means you get a unique big-day bake that becomes a talking point for years to come.
Debbie Fenton, Lois' Little Cake Company
www.loislittlecakecompany.com
Sweet tooth
Q. We love the idea of a wedding cake as a showstopping centrepiece, but neither of us are keen on sponge. Is there an alternative?
A. Nicola Thomas says: Why not try a different filling? You could always take the more traditional route with a fruit cake, rich with spices and bursting with flavour. Or follow the lead of one of my couples who'll be celebrating with an Irish chocolate biscuit cake in honour of the bride's heritage. Based on the classic chocolate tiffin, the cake is iced and could be used as a single tier of your design or for the whole cake.
Alternatively, you could consider a twist on tradition and opt for a macaron tower, providing an unusual and beautiful centrepiece with the opportunity to incorporate a combination of different flavours such as salted caramel, raspberry, pistachio, coffee, vanilla, chocolate or honey. There are so many possibilities! You can choose to have your macarons all one colour, include hand-painted details, or even opt for a multi-shade ombré effect running up the height of the tower.
Nicola Thomas, Boutqiue Bakery
www.boutiquebakery.co.uk