• Get inspired - flip through magazines or surf the Internet and take note of designs that catch your eye.
  
  
• Consider your preferences - how many tiers, what will the flavour be, what type of frosting, should there be embellishments etc.
  
  
• Shortlist cake designers - ask recently-married family and friends for recommendations.
  
  
• Meet the designers - have a face-to-face discussion on ideas, what works and what doesn't, cost indications and lead time required.
  
  
• Pay a deposit - once you have made up your mind, pay a deposit and secure the services of the cake designer.

When deciding on your cake, consider the following :

• The look - your cake should reflect the aesthetic of your wedding day. Should it be formal, cute or quirky?
  
  
• Embellishments - decorative icing, fresh flowers and fruits are some options to consider. Some brides even re-create the details on their bridal gowns on their cakes.
  
  
• Flavours and fillings - chocolate, lemon and orange are just a few of a gamut of flavours you can choose from, while buttercream, jam, chocolate fudge and fruit purees are some options for fillings.