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Why should I participate in the Cake-Off?
The Cake-Off is much more than a baking competition. It’s an opportunity to showcase your creativity, introduce your business to new referral partners, and gain exposure through Brides & Weddings.
Every participating baker receives valuable marketing benefits, including:
- A featured online story on Brides & Weddings.
- Professional photography of your Cake-Off display.
- Promotion through Brides & Weddings’ website, email newsletters and social media.
- A Cake-Off Participant digital badge for your website and marketing materials.
- The opportunity to earn a Cake-Off Winner digital badge.
- Networking with approximately 30 to 50 wedding professionals.
- Beautiful content you can continue using long after the event.
The relationships and visibility often continue long after the Cake-Off ends.
Who attends the Cake-Off?
The attendees are wedding professionals from throughout the region, including venues, wedding planners, photographers, florists, caterers, DJs, officiants and other businesses that serve engaged couples.
Typically, 30 to 50 wedding professionals attend.
Will engaged couples attend?
No. Most Bakers we know want to have cake tastings one-on-one, in their own shop. The Cake-Off is an industry networking event designed for wedding professionals.
However, Brides & Weddings promotes participating bakers, photographs, and event coverage to our audience of engaged couples through our website, newsletters, and social media after the event.
Who can participate?
The Cake-Off is open to:
- Bakeries
- Pastry chefs
- Dessert creators
- Wedding cake designers
- Licensed cottage food producers
- Caterers who provide wedding desserts
Participants must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the Official Rules.
Are only bakers showcased?
Yes!
Only bakeries and dessert professionals display their work.
Unlike a traditional wedding expo, photographers, florists, venues, and other wedding professionals attend as guests and networking partners. The spotlight remains on the participating bakers.
What do I receive as a participant?
Every participating bakery receives:
- Cake-Off showcase space
- Lunch for two (included with Early Bird registration)
- A featured online story
- Professional event photography
- Promotion through Brides & Weddings
- A Cake-Off Participant badge
- Networking opportunities
- Eligibility for Cake-Off awards
What awards are presented?
Awards include:
- Best Flavor
- Best Presentation
- Most Creative
- Specialty Award
- Judge’s Choice
- Attendees’ Choice
Award winners also receive a Cake-Off Winner digital badge.
What kind of cake can I enter?
Your entry should showcase your best work and reflect your unique style.
Cakes must comply with the Official Rules, including the requirement that at least 70% of the entry consists of real cake.
Will my cake be photographed?
Yes.
Professional photographs are taken throughout the event and used to promote the Cake-Off and participating bakers through Brides & Weddings.
Can I use the photos in my own marketing?
Absolutely. We encourage participating bakers to share their Cake-Off experience and photographs on their websites and social media.
Is lunch included?
Yes.
Early Bird registration includes lunch for two attendees from your business.
How long is the event?
The Cake-Off runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Competitors should arrive early for setup. Complete arrival instructions will be sent before the event.
How many attendees should I expect?
We typically welcome 30 to 50 wedding professionals. Participating bakers receive attendance updates as the event approaches.
Has the Cake-Off received media coverage?
Yes.
The Cake-Off has received television coverage in previous years and is regularly featured by Brides & Weddings across our digital platforms. While media coverage cannot be guaranteed each year, the event has a strong history of attracting attention.
How do I register?
Registration is available online:
https://bridesandweddings.com/womens-wedding-network/cake-off/
We encourage registering early because competitor space is limited, and Early Bird pricing is available for a limited time.
Where can I read the Official Rules?
You can review the complete Cake-Off Official Rules here:
[Link to Official Rules]
