Five tips for selecting a cake

Can you imagine how tasty the dishes and desserts that would be offered at a chef's wedding?

Guests at season four's winner of Top Chef were not disappointed with the innovative selections they were able to choose from. Those top notch options even included the cake.

The pastry chef created the cake featuring unique flavors. One layer featured Strawberry Nesquik with a chocolate marble and bacon buttercream frosting. If you think that sounds intriguing wait until you hear what was in the second layer. That layer featured chocolate ganache with peanut butter and chocolate-covered Cheez-Its. Yes, you read that right... Cheez-Its.

Are you still trying to choose flavors for your cake? If so, here are five tips:

1. Select a reputable bakery
Doing your research is crucial for selecting a bakery. Read customer reviews and look at images of their work. Schedule a tasting which will allow you to ask questions, review their portfolio and most importantly sample the merchandise.

2. Timing is essential
Wait to order your cake once you have finalized your dress and reception decor. These elements can help determine the design and structure of your wedding cake. Select a cake that's compatible with your venue. But, don't wait until the last minute. Your cake order should be completed at least two months before your wedding.

3. Flavors galore
You'll need to determine if you prefer buttercream or fondant icing. Buttercream is tastier, but fondant looks smoother. If you're going to be outdoors avoid buttercream, whipped cream and meringue. Selecting your cake flavors is the fun part. There are dozens of combinations to choose from. Make sure you select at least one traditional one for your non-adventurous guests.

4. Top it off
The days of all white cakes with pillared layers and the plastic couple adorning the top are long gone. You can introduce your wedding colors, include the design of your dress or experiment with real flowers or fruits. And, these days anything goes as a cake topper.

5. Show it off
Your cake will be on display before the traditional "cake cutting." Make sure you have a designated table and think about the presentation. Round tables work really well with round cakes and square cakes look great on a rectangular table.

Read the Huffington Post to find out more about the Cheez-Its cake.

*Photography courtesy of Jesse Lirola Photography.