Wedding Cake Size Guide

What cake size should I get for my wedding?

Choosing the perfect cake for your wedding is a big decision that needs careful thought. The cake size is based on the number of guests you're expecting to have the cake, not the actual number of guests. The tricky part is getting it right!

This guide will help you choose with confidence so you don't order to much or too little.

What's the difference between a wedding cake different to a celebration cake?

Contrary to belief that once "wedding is mentioned", the prices are raised simply because of this. I’m here to maximise what you get on the day: a cake that looks incredible when it matters, travels safely, photographs beautifully, and serves the right number of guests. Let me take on the stress for you on the day, so you can fully be present in the moment. 

How to choose the right size wedding cake for your guest count

1) Decide how the cake will be served

• Dessert-size (bigger slice): about 1" wide × 2" long × 4" tall.
• Coffee-size (smaller slice with tea/coffee): about 1" wide × 2" long × 2" tall (roughly half a dessert slice).

If cake is the dessert (canapés + cake, or light menu) → plan dessert-size serves.
If you’re serving a three-course meal → coffee-size serves usually suit.

2) Estimate how many guests will actually take cake

Not everyone eats cake. A simple rule of thumb:

• Formal dinners: plan 60–70% of your guest count.
• Cocktail/standing receptions: plan 70–85%.
• Kids: add them if you want them served; otherwise exclude from your count.

3) Pick a tier combination which the portions = number of guests + 10 pieces.

Quick picks by headcount (most common scenarios)

• 25–30 guests (cake is dessert): 7"+9" (≈48–50 dessert serves; leftovers for next day) or single 8" (≈24 dessert) if you want it tight.
• 50–60 guests (dinner, coffee-size): 7"+9" (≈96–100 coffee) or 6"+8" (≈72 coffee) if uptake is lower.
• 70–80 guests (cake as dessert): 6"+8"+10" (≈74–76 dessert).
• 90–110 guests (dinner, coffee-size): 6"+8"+10" (≈150 coffee) — plenty, or step down to 7"+9"+11" if you want slimmer tiers.
• 120–150 guests: 7"+9"+11" for dessert portions, or add a kitchen sheet cake to boost serves economically.

Pro tips

• Top tier keepsake? If you plan to keep or save the top tier, don’t count it toward serves. Note: Tradition aside, I don't recommend keeping aside top tier on the day. It'll save you freezer space and instead, get a new cake on your anniversary.
• Kitchen (cutting) cake: Add an undecorated sheet cake behind the scenes to increase serves without changing the display.
• Allergies & dietary-inclusive: If some guests require gluten-free or dairy-free, plan a small separate cake or cupcakes for clear labelling and service otherwise, I can make the cake to cater to multiple dietary requirements.
• Venue slicing: Confirm who cuts/plates; provide a cutting guide (I include one with every cake).