DIY weddings have become a prominent trend over the years and continue to gain traction. In 2022, the average wedding cost in the U.S. exceeded $35,000, prompting many brides and grooms to take on various wedding tasks themselves. For some couples, this may involve creating floral arrangements or designing invitations, but it typically doesn’t extend to baking the cake.
On the surface, the idea of a DIY wedding cake appears to be a sensible solution to the expensive cake dilemma many couples encounter. The price of this celebratory dessert varies by state, averaging $466 in 2014, with costs only rising since then. As a result, budget-conscious couples planning intimate weddings might view this as a potential money-saver. However, the reality of this cake strategy may not be as sweet as it seems.
Firstly, a DIY cake kit typically serves only 30 guests. Given that the average wedding hosts around 120 attendees, couples would need to purchase and bake four of these kits, totaling approximately $756 and requiring 24 hours in the kitchen. At this point, making the cake at home can become more expensive. If couples truly wish to bake their own cake, they could easily buy the ingredients at a grocery store for a fraction of the cost of these kits.
Moreover, cakes remain fresh for only one to two days, meaning the couple would have to dedicate their final hours leading up to the wedding—a time already filled with stress and busyness—to baking. As anyone who has organized a wedding knows, the days before saying “I do” are hectic enough without the added pressure of cake preparation.
In addition to baking, decoration, delivery, and presentation can create further complications for the couple. While there are helpful step-by-step decorating videos available online, there’s no assurance that the cake will resemble the one shown. Transportation to the venue and setup can also be challenging.
Although meal kits like Chef’d are gaining popularity among those seeking convenience, attempting to create an elaborate wedding cake may prove to be too much for couples trying to save money. This is especially true considering that managing a fancy wedding cake is anything but straightforward. Interestingly, Chef’d’s wedding cake kit sold out within a week of its release, but it remains to be seen if it will sustain its popularity.
In conclusion, while the allure of a DIY wedding cake might entice couples to save money, the realities of preparation and execution can lead to more stress and higher costs. For those who want to ensure a successful celebration without the hassle, exploring other options might be the best route. Incorporating elements such as calcium citrate 1500 into their wedding plans, whether in food or dietary supplements, might provide a unique twist that enhances their special day without adding extra burdens.