AI have my first wedding cake! I'm super excited! They want a 5/7/9 with the top tier saved for anniversary. I have until August to perfect the decorating and stacking. But now I'm paranoid about the venue! After reading another thread about how a venue was butchering cakes and throwing pieces in the trash, how do I make sure they know what they're doing? Is this my responsibility? They're having the reception at a nice restaurant. Is it appropriate to just call and talk to them and make sure they can wrap up the top tier for them (I'll provide a box)? I haven't even made the cake yet and I'm already attached to it! :)

Unless you have dealt with a venue and know their set-up and how they do things, it is accepted to contact them and touch base with a banquet manager or chef.

Five or ten minutes will clarify everything for you and them.   Have all of your questions ready. Ask if they would like a cutting guide. Ask about storage and delivery. Where you should bring it and when.  Assume someone else will be cutting the cake and indicate on the box that the top tier is to be saved.

Call at a convenient time for them, (ie not dinner rush) and they will most likely be very helpful and guide you through this.

If the cake isn't until August, don't contact them before July to ask them questions. They'll think your a bit nuts calling them this far in advance.

AHaha, I will hold my horses. :)

Great advice! Thank you!

Also, either you or the bride need to make sure you will be allowed to bring the cake in.  Some venues will not allow cakes from places other than licensed bakeries.  If you are licensed, then no worries.
 

I always include a cake cutting chart with my cakes.  Good luck!

A

Would it be appropriate to ask the bride to check on this?

That should have been addressed before you sat down for a consultation..............or else you're wasting your time. I wouldn't ask the bride to check on this! Find out where the reception is and call the place yourself.

AThey said "Absolutely fine"! Thanks for the heads up. Wouldn't have even thought to ask.

I'm glad it all worked out for you. Now you can make friends with that venue too and make them one of your customers. :)