Here's the deal. I've gone slightly over budget on a few things lately, partly because of unrealistic original expectations on cost, partly because of not liking what I could get at the amount I'd allocated (and deciding that it was important to spend the money), and sometimes just because we're having a shorter engagement and I didn't have the time to DIY and save. We're not talking about a big amount, but I'm scared that as we go along those hundred dollars here, three hundred dollars there, will really add up. That said, I'm willing to spend money where it matters. As I look at what I have left to do, the one thing I haven't booked that I'm thinking I COULD save a hundred dollars or two on is my cake. I'm not inclined to try to make up money on flowers or decor. We're getting married in eastern NC, and there are several cake designers there that are much less expensive, though, honestly, some of them make cake that's slightly artificial/cake mix tasting or at least not so "gourmet" tasting as some of the cakes at weddings in larger areas. We don't want a fancy looking cake, and we want buttercream instead of fondant anyway. I guess I'm just wondering what y'all's thoughts are on whether it's worth it to buy a cake that will look the same but just not be as yummy. Do people notice cake? I personally only remember one cake besides the ones at weddings I've been to very recently, and that was because it was so good.