Before the colour palette, the flowers or the final flourish, there is a feeling. That is often the most useful place to begin.
Start with the moment
Is this an intimate table for two, a room full of old friends, or a gathering that marks a new chapter? Describe the moment in a few words. Quiet and romantic. Playful and full of colour. Understated and architectural. These words can become a useful design brief.
Choose one detail that matters
A favourite flower, a meaningful colour, a texture from an invitation or a small family tradition can give a cake its point of view. A personal reference often tells a designer more than a long list of unrelated inspiration photographs.
Let the practical details join the story
Bring the event date, guest count, location and budget into the conversation early. These are questions for the bakery to review alongside the design; a beautiful reference image alone cannot confirm price, feasibility or delivery.
Leave space for interpretation
A reference is the beginning of a discussion. Share what you love about it, whether that is its silhouette, palette or feeling, and give the cake artist room to develop a considered response.