When determining the size of the cake, don't forget that you'll be saving the top tier for your first anniversary. This top tier should be removed before the cake is cut, wrapped in several layers of plastic wrap or put inside a plastic container, and kept frozen until your anniversary. Check for individuals who bake from their home. They are usually more reasonable, but you should check with your local health department before hiring one of these at-home bakers. Also, some caterers have contracts with bakeries and can pass on savings to you.
Some bakeries require a deposit on columns and plates.
Other bakeries use disposable columns and plates, saving you the rental fee and the hassle of returning these items. The groom's cake is an old southern tradition whereby this cake is cut up and distributed to guests in little white boxes engraved with the bride and groom's names. Today the groom's cake, if offered, is cut and served along with the wedding cake. Usually a chocolate cake decorated with fruit. This is the fee charged by bakers to deliver and set up your wedding cake at the reception site.