I have a bride who originally ordered three "tiers" but separated on cake stands at varying heights. No problem. She now is thinking about adding a dummy layer and perhaps having them stacked. I originally was going to do a 12", 9", and 6". My questions are: 1) If she DOES add a dummy layer to get a more dramatic looking wedding cake. . . what does one charge for a dummy layer? Her cakes are covered in BC, have a ribbon that she is providing around the base, and a scroll design. . nothing fancy. How do I go about figuring a price for a dummy? and 2) Is there a preferred location for a dummy layer on a stacked cake? Would it fare better on the very bottom? or should it be on the top? Can I put it in the middle or will that compromise the stability of the entire cake?

Can you tell I've never used a dummy before?

Any help you all can give me is greatly appreciated!

I charge the same for a dummy layer as a real one that size. Some people charge 20% less. As for which one you should do, it will depend on how many servings you are needing of real cake. Structurally, it doesn't matter.

Around here (Boston) I think the going rate is 75% of a real cake, i.e., 25% less if it's not real cake.

I think it would be easier to use the dummy as a solid base and build up from there -- remember to secure it to the cake drum.