How can I save money on wedding desserts?

A wedding cake does not need to be huge or elaborate. A single-tier cake on a stand with a few extra cupcakes around it looks generous and costs far less than a tall multi-tier cake. You could also ask a talented friend or family member to make the cake as their gift to you.

Another idea is to have a dessert table where guests help themselves. Buy or make a few types of puddings, like brownies, shortbread or fruit tarts, and arrange them on cake stands and boards. This feels abundant without the cost of a plated dessert for every guest.

If your venue allows it, you could ask guests to bring a dessert to share instead of a card or gift. This works well for relaxed weddings and adds a personal touch. Just make sure you label any dishes that contain nuts or allergens.

For the cake itself, choose a flavour that is popular and easy to make, like vanilla sponge or chocolate. Avoid fancy sugar flowers or hand-painted details, as these add time and cost. A simple cake with fresh flowers on top looks beautiful and costs much less.