Cupcakes have been around for a very long time, but they have made a dramatic comeback in the last decade. These days, people are opting for tiered platters of cupcakes instead of wedding cakes and other goodies for celebrations. Not only are they delicious and easy to eat since forks and plates are not required, but they are also a budget alternative to extravagant baked goods.
I helped plan a large garden party, and instead of consulting a bakery for a costly specialty cake, I opted for a cupcake stand filled with individual homemade treats that I decorated myself. I did not use an expensive store-bought stand. I devised a tiered stand to fit my budget and the theme of the party.
Terracotta Saucers and Planters
Clay planters and saucers are more versatile than many people realize. They are great for far more than holding soil and plants. When used in creative ways they can be turned into all sorts of decorative and useful items from yard decor to birdbaths. I used a series of large clay saucers and pots to create my garden themed cupcake stand, and I saved a considerable amount of money in the process.
Plan the Cupcake Stand
Begin by figuring out how many tiers you will need for a budget cupcake stand. Keep in mind that center planters will take up space. The cupcakes will fill the edges. I do not recall how many cakes fit each tier of my cupcake stand, but I was able to display and serve two dozen.
Necessary Supplies to Make a Terracotta Cupcake Stand
Buy a large clay planter and a larger base for the bottom tier of the stand. For every tier you will need a base and a planter. I used the largest base I could find and placed it beneath the first overturned planter. I filled the base with cupcakes as well. Overturn the first planter on a much larger base or the table, and arrange the subsequent planters and saucers right side up until ending with the final base.
Put it Together Just Before the Party
For added security, apply a bead of hot glue around each connection. Do not attempt to glue the parts together until you are ready to fill the cupcake stand. It will be very heavy, and it will be nearly impossible to move once the parts are glued together. The glue will peel away very easily once the party is over, and the pots and bases can be used for plants or another project.
Source: Personal and Professional Crafting and Entertaining Experience