Once you’re comfortable, Valastro recommends bringing pictures to the baker—of cakes you like, your gown, bridal flowers, the venue, and the invitation—for inspiration. “The more stuff you bring to me, the easier it is to give you my ideas,” he says.

While the cake could incorporate an element from the event, not everything has to match. “The cake can be its own unique centerpiece,” Buddy says. “You can be a little topsy-turvy.” And you can use color—like black for piping or stencil designs. “Don’t be afraid to be a little different,” he says.

And perhaps most importantly when choosing a cake: “Make sure you taste it,” he says. “Make sure you love it.” Spoken like a true Cake Boss.