Marquee Weddings & Sweet Setups: How to Make Your Cake & Desserts Shine!

A marquee wedding offers a stunning, flexible, and unique setting for your big day. However, it also presents specific challenges, especially concerning your wedding cake and dessert table. Unlike traditional venues, marquees require extra planning to ensure your confections remain stable, fresh, and beautifully presented. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Beautiful Marquee Set up with Gorgeous Background Views

1. Choosing the Right Location for Your Cake and Dessert Table

Your marquee setup should include a dedicated area for the cake and desserts. Consider:

• Stable Ground: Ensure the table is positioned on a solid, level surface to prevent wobbling or tilting.

• Shaded or Cool Area: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause buttercream and chocolate decorations to melt.

• Backdrop and Lighting: While marquees are undeniably beautiful, their white canvas walls can sometimes appear plain in photos. Enhance your display by incorporating floral arrangements, draped fabric, fairy lights, or a statement flower arch. Layered table styling, elegant cake stands, and varied heights can also add depth, making the cake and dessert table a true focal point in your wedding setup.

• Accessibility and Photo Opportunities: Position your cake and dessert table in a location that allows for easy access and stunning photos. Ensure there’s enough space around it for a natural and comfortable cake-cutting moment. Placing the cake centrally can highlight its significance and enhance its presence in your wedding photos.

  
  

2. Weather Considerations for Your Cake and Desserts

Marquee weddings expose cakes and desserts to more environmental factors than indoor venues. Be prepared with:

• Temperature Control: If it’s a summer wedding, opt for a cake that holds up well in warm weather, such as fondant or ganache-covered cakes.

• Humidity and Wind Protection: Avoid lightweight decorations that could be affected by wind or condensation buildup inside the marquee.

• Backup Storage: Arrange for a cool area or refrigerated storage to keep delicate desserts fresh until serving time.

  
  

3. Cake and Dessert Delivery & Setup

Setting up a cake and dessert table in a marquee requires extra care. Plan for:

• Timely Delivery: Schedule the setup as close to the wedding start time as possible to minimize exposure to heat and humidity.

• Sturdy Table Setup: Use a strong, stable table with a firm surface to prevent the cake from leaning or toppling over on soft grass.

• Avoid Tripping Hazards: Keep fabric flooring, cables, or any potential obstacles away from the cake and dessert table to ensure safety.

4. Creating a Stunning Dessert Table Display

A marquee wedding offers the opportunity to design a breathtaking dessert table setup. To make it stand out against the canvas backdrop, consider:

• Layered Heights: Use cake stands and risers to create visual interest and highlight key desserts.

• Themed Styling: Incorporate seasonal flowers, rustic wooden boards, elegant platters, or vintage accents that match your wedding theme.

• Practical Placement: Ensure guests have easy access to the desserts while keeping delicate treats protected from excessive heat or wind.

Pear and Caramel Mini Cakes

5. Ensuring Picture-Perfect Cake and Dessert Photos

Your wedding cake and dessert table are statement pieces, so make sure they look amazing in photos by:

• Positioning in Good Lighting: Natural light works best, but if your reception extends into the evening, soft fairy lights or spotlights can enhance the display.

• Choosing a Stunning Backdrop: A floral arch, draped fabric, or greenery can frame the cake and desserts beautifully.

• Cake Cutting Logistics: Ensure there’s enough space around the cake for you and your partner to comfortably pose for the cutting ceremony.

6. Serving and Preserving Your Desserts

To ensure smooth service of your desserts and cake:

• Pre-Cut Options: If you’re serving cake as dessert, pre-cut slices or gateaux cakes make it easier for caterers to serve guests efficiently.

• Chilled Desserts: If you’re featuring cheesecakes, panna cotta, or mousse-based treats, ensure there’s refrigeration available until serving time.

• Cake Leftovers: Have boxes or takeaway containers ready for guests who want to take a slice home.

Final Thoughts

A marquee wedding provides a gorgeous and flexible setting, but planning ahead is crucial for ensuring your wedding cake and dessert table remain stable, fresh, and picture-perfect. By considering factors like weather, setup logistics, and display aesthetics, you can create a seamless experience that allows your guests to enjoy a stunning and delicious sweet spread. With proper planning, your cake and desserts will be just as memorable as the rest of your big day!