Do you get the cake stand for the wedding cake ahead of time or do you simply just get the measurements to be sure it will fit? I'm sure this sounds like a crazy question, but I've always just had brides use the masonite board I take my cakes on.

No. I never wanted to be responsible for it. I tell *them* what size plateau to order from the florist /rental company and just set the cake on a cake drum onto the plateau.

I provide all of my own rentals to customers, just so I don't have to worry about it.

I know where they all are at different rental places so I just get them. Or I tell them exactly what to get and where to get it. This way no mistakes happen.

I do buffets so I want them to look a certain way. I'm the one that doesn't want the surprise.

I use 12" and 16" cake base boards almost exclusively under my wedding cakes, and have for hire a number of 12" and 16" cake plateaus. These are great to hire out (also hire out cupcake towers)...initial outlay of $80 - 200 and your investment is recouped in 4 hires or less! Then it's all gravy.

I charge a $25 - $50 hire fee plus $200 refunded security bond (upon return in good condition within 3 days of event). I also deduct $25 if the stand is not returned in it's proper box.