Dessert table vs. A Single Cake

Dessert tables are all the rage right now in the world of weddings.  The picturesque table full of treats ranging from mini pies to cookies to brownies and with a tiered cake in the center.    But, are dessert tables the right way to go.  Here are a few things to consider when deciding if a dessert table is right for your wedding.

1. They are more expensive!  The most common misconception is that you save money because you have a smaller cake and then include less expensive desserts.  While that's great in theory, it's not reality.  If you are having a dessert table at your reception I do recommend decreasing the size of the cake, by a little bit, but no more than 10-15% of your guest count.  Why?  Because people will still eat the cake!  It's a wedding and everyone comes anticipating the cake for dessert.  A few guests might skip the cake altogether, but not many.  While the price of a cookie or brownie is less then the price of the cake, you have to purchase more.  When you go to a buffet, don't you like to take a little sample of everything?  Yep...well, so does everyone else.  If you only have a cake then most people will choose one slice.  But, if you have multiple desserts, most people will choose several desserts to eat, meaning you have to purchase more of those little filler desserts.
   
2. Will you still like this idea in 20 years?  Trends are great today, but what about tomorrow?  Do you ever look back on weddings from the past and wonder what in the world people were thinking?  Think about yourself in the future.  When you are showing your kids your wedding photos would you still be pleased showcasing an album with multiple small desserts rather than a grand cake?  For some brides, this might be an issue while others many not be concerned.  
   
3. Does your venue have the room?  Consider your reception venue.  What tables will you be using?  If your venue uses a round table for the desserts it may not accommodate and dessert table.  You will need a larger rectangle table.  Consider availability and placement of that table, as well as how you will decorate and display multiple desserts (again, this could increase the price of your decorations if you need more dessert stands).