When faced with selecting your wedding cake, the options are countless. Should you opt for a classic white confection or a whimsical three-tiered masterpiece? Should it be decorated with something personal? Fresh flowers or sugar blooms? Moreover, with a myriad of trends emerging in the world of wedding cakes, selecting the right one can feel even more overwhelming. However, fear not! We’ve asked advice from Sahar Masarati, founder of the cake art studio Sugar Alkymi, known for her art form sweet creations. Read on as she will guide you through choosing the perfect wedding cake amidst the sea of trends.
MEET THE EXPERT
Sahar Masarati established the cake art studio in Los Angeles in 2018 under the name Sugar Alkymi. As a cake artist, Sahar draws inspiration from her clients’ stories and the emotions they evoke. She believes in the poetic and romantic nature of creating customized edible art, transforming her clients’ narratives into exquisite couture creations.
With a passion for modern surreal art, Sahar seeks to infuse her designs with captivating tones, textures, and romantic patterns. She envisions beauty in the imperfect lines and aged surfaces adorned with a garden of exquisite sugar flowers.
Photo: Robert Paul
All images below showcase the work of the cake art studio Sugar Alkymi.
With endless cake trends, how can couples narrow down their options?
This is one of my favorite questions to answer, and I’m glad you asked. In the world of wedding cakes, trends are ever-evolving, but personal taste should always take the lead. I encourage couples to start with what resonates with them on a personal level. Consider your favorite flavors and design elements that speak to your style and the atmosphere you want to create. Trends can be fantastic, but they should complement your unique vision rather than overshadow it.
As you navigate the myriad options, think about how your chosen cake design will align with your personal taste, creating not just a trendy moment but a lasting memory. Envision how it will reflect your unique vision on your wedding day and as a timeless expression of your style for years to come. As you explore personalized elements, let’s contemplate how the images captured on your wedding day will evoke emotions in the years to come—how they will make you feel on your 5th, 10th, 20th, or even 50th anniversary. Creating memories that withstand the test of time is at the heart of what I do as a cake artist, and envisioning the lasting impact of your cake design is a joyous part of the process.
Collaboration with a professional seems key. How can couples work effectively with a cake designer?
Collaboration is the heart of creating a dream wedding cake. Couples must share their ideas openly and honestly, allowing the cake designer to understand their vision. Trust your designer’s expertise—they are there to guide you through the creative process. Be clear about your preferences, but also be open to suggestions. The best cakes often emerge from a beautiful synergy of the couple’s vision and the designer’s artistic expertise.
Additionally, recognizing the importance of the role of an assistant or event planner in this collaborative process is crucial. These professionals often play a vital part in ensuring effective communication and seamless coordination between couples and cake designers. If you have an assistant or planner involved, ensure they know your preferences and encourage them to collaborate closely with the cake designer to bring your vision to life.
Flavors play a significant role. Any advice for couples exploring beyond the traditional? Or what couple should take into account?
Absolutely, flavors are a delightful adventure! Beyond the classics, consider incorporating unique and meaningful flavors. Think about your shared experiences—perhaps the flavor of your first date or a shared favorite dessert. The wedding cake is a wonderful canvas to tell your story through taste. Don’t be afraid to get creative and infuse your personalities and cultural backgrounds into the layers.
During these consultations, it’s essential to take into account the season of your wedding. Fresh, seasonal ingredients can elevate the flavors of your cake and contribute to a more vibrant taste experience. Additionally, consider any allergies or dietary restrictions your guests may have. Discussing these details with your cake designer ensures that the flavors are unique, personal, and accommodating to everyone’s needs. This collaborative approach provides a delicious and inclusive wedding cake experience.
Aesthetic-wise, how can couples match their cake to their wedding theme?
Harmony remains key when aligning your cake with the wedding theme. As a cake artist, my strength is ensuring that all elements, including those influenced by the venue, season, and flavors used in the design, are in perfect harmony. Share details about your color palette, floral choices, and overall theme with your cake designer. This comprehensive approach allows them to create a cake that seamlessly integrates into the visual narrative of your wedding. Whether achieved through intricate fondant details or floral embellishments, the goal is to have the cake become a beautiful extension of your chosen theme, considering how these elements contribute to the overall aesthetic of the celebration.
How can couples strike a balance between tradition and trendiness?
Balancing tradition and trendiness is an art. Start with classic elements that hold sentimental value for you, and then incorporate trends in a way that feels natural. It could be a modern twist on a traditional tiered cake or incorporating trendy colors into a classic design. The key is to blend these elements seamlessly to make your cake timeless yet on-trend.
Sentimental elements are special. What are your suggestions for adding personalized touches?
Personal touches make a cake truly yours. As a cake artist, my creative signature involves delving into your unique love story and infusing it into the design, ensuring each creation is exceptionally personal and distinct. Consider incorporating elements that reflect your shared interests or milestones—perhaps a subtle nod to your love story or a motif inspired by a shared passion. Monograms, favorite quotes, or even a unique cake topper can add that extra layer of personalization, making your wedding cake a one-of-a-kind representation of your journey together.
What about cake size and style?
Choosing the right size and style is a delicate balance. Consider the number of guests, but also think about the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for. A smaller, more detailed cake might be the perfect fit if you’re having an intimate affair. For larger celebrations, a grander cake can serve as a stunning centerpiece. Style-wise let the overall vibe of your wedding guide you—whether it’s a sleek, modern design or a more romantic, classic look.
Lastly, tastings! How crucial are they in finalizing the cake? How many should there be, and when?
Tastings are a delightful and crucial part of the cake journey. They allow couples to experience the flavors firsthand and make informed decisions. I recommend at least one initial consultation to explore flavor options. A final tasting ensures everything is perfect closer to the wedding date (1 month). It’s an opportunity to fine-tune details and make any necessary adjustments.
Any parting advice for couples on this cake journey?
Enjoy the process! Planning a wedding is a beautiful journey, but it can also be challenging, and selecting your cake should be a fun and creative experience. Trust your instincts, communicate openly with your cake designer, and, most importantly, savor the sweet moments along the way. Your wedding cake is a delicious reflection of your love story—make it uniquely yours.
