How far in advance should you book a wedding cake?

Short answer

Book your wedding cake 6 to 9 months before the wedding. This gives you time to taste samples, agree the design and confirm the date with the baker, especially for popular summer Saturdays.

Start looking for a cake baker about 9 months ahead, and aim to confirm the booking by 6 months before the wedding. Bakers often take a limited number of weddings each weekend, so early enquiry helps you secure someone whose style you love. You will also want time for a tasting, which most bakers offer, and for any changes to flavour or design after you have chosen your venue and colour scheme.

If you are having a very simple cake, you might book closer to the date, but 6 months is a safe guide. For a cake that is part of the table styling, talk to your florist and venue at the same time so the look hangs together. Remember to confirm delivery and setup times with the venue, and check whether the baker will set the cake up for you or whether you need someone on the day.

If your wedding is abroad or in a very remote part of the UK, allow extra time for travel and for the baker to plan. Always ask about storage, especially if the cake has fresh flowers or cream, and confirm who cuts it on the day.