| Step 1 Research before you shop. Spend time online looking at cake designs or visit local bakeries to get ideas of how you want your cake to look. Take pictures of cakes in windows and compare them later. You might be able to replicate someone else's design. Step 2 Select a style of wedding cake. If you found a style you like on a Web site, print a picture for later reference. Or be creative and combine two harmonious styles to make something new and different. You can also style the cake around an interest you share with your spouse. For example, if you're both avid tennis buffs, ask your baker to customize your cake with a marzipan net, paddle and tennis balls. Step 3 Select the ingredients of your wedding cake. There are many combinations of icing and cake, including vegan and carrot cake. You don't have to stick the mainstream here, either. Go with what you like, it's your day. A cake layered with jelly beans or some favorite treat might suit your tastes. Step 4 Make the rounds of local bakeries and show them your wedding cake design. Ask if they will have any trouble replicating the design. Have them show you cakes that bear similar designs and decide if they can create your masterpiece. Step 5 Pin down the delivery time. How much lead time does your bakery need to ensure the cake will be ready for your wedding. Some bakeries may not deliver, if so, arrange for a delivery service. | 