Where to find your perfect cake

Try your local bakeries, cake specialists, and wedding caterers or enlist the help of a friend or relative. You could even impress your new husband and guests by making your own cake. Major supermarkets now produce a variety of basic, white iced celebration fruitcakes in various sizes, which can be decorated with piped icing, ribbons or fresh flowers. However, do not try to save money by having a homemade cake iced by a professional cake maker, as this is where most of the skill and expense lies.

Ask to see a portfolio of the cake maker's work. This will demonstrate the styles of cake they specialize in and will give you an idea of the possibilities. Most professionals will be able to incorporate even the most original requirements into their designs. A good baker should be willing and able to copy a picture of a cake, so if one catches your eye in a magazine or book do not hesitate to take it along with you as a suggestion. The more elaborate the design the higher the price so it is important to discuss the final costs and any extra requirements before making a confirmed order. Reputable suppliers will offer you the opportunity to taste their products before making a final decision, which is particularly important if you want an unusual flavour or filling.

Plan and order your cake in plenty of time as the most delicious fruitcakes are made about three months before a wedding and steeped in extra alcohol for a few weeks.