A wedding cake should taste as good as it looks, experts tell couples

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Exhibitors at the 2026 Bride & Groom Expo at UMA Show Grounds, Lugogo, have urged couples to look beyond appearances when planning their weddings, saying quality, early preparation and realistic budgeting are far more important than simply following the latest trends.

From choosing the perfect wedding cake to selecting the ideal bridal gown, experts advised couples to make informed decisions that will leave lasting memories long after the celebrations are over.

Don’t judge a cake by its decoration

The wedding cake is often one of the first things guests notice, but according to Dr Anne Wajja, the proprietor of Cakes to Differ Uganda, appearance should never be the only consideration.

“A wedding cake should taste as good as it looks,” she said, explaining that while elaborate designs may attract attention, flavour, freshness and durability are what guests remember long after the event. “Many people choose cakes because they look beautiful, but they should also ask how the cake tastes, whether it is rich in flavour and whether it will remain fresh,” she added.

Dr Wajja encouraged couples to consult professional cake designers before placing their orders, noting that some fashionable flavours may not be suitable for large decorative wedding cakes or may not keep fresh for long.

“Fruit cake remains one of the best choices for weddings because it is rich, lasts longer and is ideal for sharing with guests after the ceremony,” she said. She also advised couples to place their orders well in advance to allow enough time for consultations, tasting sessions and customisation.

“Give your cake maker enough time. We can even prepare cake testers so couples know exactly what they are paying for before the wedding day.” Recognising that wedding budgets vary, Dr Wajja said Cakes to Differ Uganda works with couples to customise cakes that suit different budgets without compromising on quality. The company operates from Zzana and also has an outlet in Kabalagala, behind Shell.

Choose timeless bridal styles

Mercy Namuzibwa, a sales representative at Baky Designs and Bridal World, said many brides become overwhelmed by the wide variety of wedding gowns available and often choose dresses simply because they are fashionable.

“Some brides get confused because they see many beautiful gowns. They don't know what suits their body type, which materials are of good quality or which styles will still look elegant years later,” she said. Rather than chasing short-lived trends, Namuzibwa encouraged brides to invest in timeless designs.

“A trend may last only a few months, but your wedding photographs will last a lifetime. You want to look back years from now and still love the choices you made.” She also advised brides to begin shopping for their gowns at least three to four months before the wedding to allow sufficient time for fittings and alterations.

“Starting early gives you more options and reduces unnecessary pressure,” she said. To help couples manage rising wedding costs, Namuzibwa said Bridal World offers wedding packages for brides, bridesmaids and matrons across different price ranges.

“We work within different budgets because every couple deserves to have the wedding they dream of without overspending.” Baky Designs and Bridal World operate on Luwum Street at Universal House, Shop No. 1 and also have a branch at Pakwach Road Mall near Watoto Church.

Visitors leave inspired

Visitors to the expo said one of the biggest advantages of attending was the opportunity to compare prices, explore different designs and receive professional advice before making purchasing decisions.

Viola Namulira from Kisasi said she found a bridal gown that perfectly matched both her style and her budget. “I've learnt that you can actually get quality wedding items at better prices during the expo than you may find elsewhere,” she said.

Namere Maria Gorret from Lweza said the exhibition offered much more than a shopping experience. “I have seen different bridal fashions, learnt about new designs and gathered ideas that will help me plan a better wedding,” she said.