a friend asked me to make her wedding cake for 200. i've looked on calculate cake and came up with 8,10,12,14 which gives 196 servings. she also wants a top tier that isn't included in the servings so that would be a 6. i've never done a 5 tier cake before and i'm a bit nervous. is there any easier way that i'm missing? i'm by no means a professional, just a hobbyist and my friend knows that and is ok with that.

Chances are all 200 will not eat cake, so I think that number is fine. as far as the stacking you have to go with your comfort level and do your homework on what you want to do. Lots of options and help on cc. hth good luck!

I always encourage them to serve the whole cake. 6/9/12/15 = 185. Otherwise 6/8/10/12/14 = 211.

You're on the right track for sizing.

Check into SPS for support. You won't fear large cakes any more!