What size should a wedding cake be?

A 3-tier cake (10, 8, 6 inches) usually serves 75–100 guests. Larger weddings may need more tiers or sheet cakes.

How much does a wedding dessert table cost?

On average, dessert tables cost $3–$8 per guest depending on desserts and display setup.

What desserts are good alternatives to cake?

Cupcakes, donuts, pies, cookies, and mini tarts are fun, affordable alternatives to a traditional wedding cake.

What’s the difference between a last dance and an exit song?

The last dance is the final song on the dance floor. The exit song plays as you leave or during a sparkler or tunnel send-off. They can be the same or different.

Should we go upbeat or slow for the exit?

An upbeat song creates a big sing-along, high-energy goodbye. A slow song creates a romantic spotlight moment. Choose the vibe you want captured in your photos and video.

How long should the exit song be?

Aim for 3–4 minutes. Your DJ can start at the chorus and fade at the perfect time so it feels seamless.

Can the DJ handle clean edits and timing?

Yes. Professional DJs use clean versions, cue guests, and coordinate timing with photographers and planners so the exit feels flawless.

How much should we budget for a wedding DJ?

National averages typically range from $1,000–$1,700 depending on the source. In Washington, DC, couples commonly invest $1,600–$2,200 for full-day coverage on peak dates. Always compare all-in quotes for a fair match.

Does ceremony audio cost extra?

Usually yes. Ceremony sound often requires a second system, wireless microphones, and additional setup time. Expect an add-on of about $300–$600.

Why do big venues or multiple rooms cost more?

Larger spaces or split-room layouts may require extra speakers, microphones, cabling, or an additional system for cocktail hour. More coverage means more gear, setup time, and labor.

What hidden wedding DJ costs should we watch for?

Common add-ons include overtime, travel/mileage, extra systems for additional rooms, dance lighting or uplighting, photo booth services, and peak-season premiums. Ask for a line-item breakdown.

What’s included in professional DJ pricing?

Typically: ceremony audio, cocktail-hour system, reception system, wireless mics for toasts, basic dance lighting, setup/teardown, backup equipment, and planning/prep (timeline review, music pulls, coordination).

Are wedding DJ prices negotiable?

Pros may adjust based on hours or off-peak dates, but established companies usually maintain set pricing to reflect labor, experience, and reliability.

What’s the difference between a cheap DJ and a professional DJ?

Lower-cost DJs may lack backup gear, insurance, MC skills, or timeline management. Professionals bring reliability, polished MC work, and the experience to keep energy and flow on track.

Do DJs charge for setup and teardown?

Most professionals include setup and teardown in their quotes. If it’s not specified, request that it be detailed in writing.

Do DJs bring their own lights?

Basic dance-floor lighting is often included. Uplighting or specialty effects are usually available as add-ons.

How do travel fees work for DJs?

Many DJs include travel within a local radius (e.g., 30–50 miles). Beyond that, mileage or flat travel fees may apply; confirm the details in your quote.

How far in advance should we book our DJ?

Peak Saturdays can book 12–18 months ahead. If you want better availability or pricing, consider Fridays, Sundays, or off-season dates.

How can we save on DJ costs without cutting corners?

Consider off-peak dates, trim coverage hours if your timeline allows, and ask about package pricing when bundling services like DJ plus lighting.

How to Plan Your Wedding Cake & Dessert Table

Download the Wedding Cake & Dessert Planner (Free)

Planning your wedding cake and dessert table can feel overwhelming. There are so many flavors, designs, and display options to choose from. With the right approach, you can make your sweets both delicious and photo-worthy.

This guide covers:

How to choose your wedding cake flavors, sizes, and costs
Creative wedding dessert table ideas
Budget-friendly dessert options
Styling, cutting songs, and vendor coordination

Part 1: How to Choose Your Wedding Cake

Pick Your Cake Flavors

Did you know the top wedding cake flavors include classics like vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet — but unique options like lemon elderflower or almond raspberry are trending, too?
👉 Pro tip: Offer two flavors if you expect 100+ guests.

Understand Wedding Cake Costs

Most wedding cakes cost around $350–$650, but prices can shift higher or lower based on the cake’s size, style, and the bakery’s location.
👉 Budget hack: Choose a smaller “display cake” and serve sheet cake from the kitchen.

DJ + MC pricing

Try Before You Buy: Cake Tastings

Bakeries often provide a wedding cake tasting box with sample slices. This is an easy way to narrow down flavors and involve family or your bridal party.

Baker frosting a wedding cake during preparation

Part 2: How to Plan Your Dessert Table

Wedding Dessert Table Ideas

Your dessert table can double as both a sweet treat and a photo-worthy centerpiece. Popular wedding dessert table ideas include:

Cupcake towers
Macaron pyramids
Doughnut walls
Mini pies and tarts
Candy jars for a “pick-and-mix” station

Baker preparing pink cake surrounded by macarons

Dessert Options Beyond Cake

Want more variety? Here are popular wedding dessert options that guests love:

Mini cheesecakes
Chocolate-covered strawberries
Cookies with custom monograms
Cake pops or brownies

Dessert on a Budget

Yes, you can wow your guests without overspending:

Use small desserts for weddings, like cookies or cupcakes, in bulk
A DIY dessert bar with family-favorite recipes
Seasonal fruit platters that are creatively displayed

Man frosting a rustic homemade wedding cake

Part 3: How to Bring It All Together

Styling Your Display

Use cake stands, tiered trays, or rustic crates to enhance the visual impact. Adding wedding cake flowers or a custom topper makes a simple cake look luxe.

Timing the Cake Cutting

Don’t forget to plan your wedding cake cutting song — it’s a small detail that makes for a memorable photo moment.

Bride playfully feeding groom cake at wedding reception

Work With Your Vendors

Coordinate with your venue and dessert vendors to ensure setup, serving, and cleanup run smoothly. If you’re using multiple vendors, designate someone to manage the timeline.

FAQs About Wedding Cakes & Desserts

A 3-tier cake (10", 8", 6") typically serves 75–100 guests. For larger weddings, add tiers or sheet cakes.
On average, expect $3–$8 per guest depending on dessert types and display complexity.
Donuts, cupcakes, pies, cookies, and mini tarts are popular choices — often cheaper and easier to serve.

Wrap-Up

Your wedding cake and dessert table should reflect your personality, budget, and guest experience. Whether you want elegant, rustic, or playful — the key is planning.

💡 Want a stress-free way to organize your sweets? Download our free Wedding Dessert Table Planner for budget worksheets, flavor charts, and vendor checklists.

Book Your DJ with PHE

How to Tackle Your Wedding Cake & Dessert Table (Ideas, Costs & Tasting Tips)