Wedding Cake Trends: Out Or In?

Wedding cakes have been a tradition for centuries, but are they still in vogue? The short answer is yes, but they are evolving. While some couples are sticking with the traditional tiered cake, others are opting for more modern alternatives such as cupcakes, cake pops, or even a display cake with a sheet cake served to guests. The average cost of a wedding cake in the US is around $500 to $600, but prices can vary depending on factors such as size, complexity of design, and ingredients used. With the rise of social media and reality TV shows like Cake Boss, wedding cakes and cake decorating have become a pop culture symbol, with some couples opting for more elaborate and unique designs. So, while traditional wedding cakes may be evolving, they are definitely still a part of modern weddings.

Wedding cakes as centrepieces

Wedding cakes are a traditional part of wedding receptions, but nowadays they are more of a centrepiece and are not always served to the guests. Wedding cakes can be customised to match the colour scheme of the wedding and can be made in a variety of flavours, fillings, icings, shapes and sizes.

Wedding cakes are usually priced per slice and can range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars per person. The more tiers a cake has, the more expensive it will be. The type of icing used also affects the price, with fondant being more expensive than buttercream.

When choosing a wedding cake, it is important to consider the number of guests and the desired size of the cake. A small cake with simple decorations and basic flavours will be more affordable than a large, elaborate cake with custom sugar flower detailing and fondant frosting.

To save money, couples can opt for a "display" cake, which is a fake cake used for photos and cutting purposes, and serve a less expensive sheet cake to the guests. Alternatively, they can choose a one- or two-tier cake with simple flavours and designs or even make their own cake if they are up for the challenge.

The cost of wedding cakes

Wedding cakes are priced based on a variety of factors, including the number of tiers, the ingredients used, the decorations, and the location. The average cost of a wedding cake in the United States is around $540 to $600, but the final price can vary significantly depending on the specific details and requirements.

The cost of a wedding cake is typically determined by the number of slices or servings needed, which is influenced by the number of guests at the wedding. An average 8-inch round cake serves about 15 people, so for a larger wedding of 115 guests (the average number in 2023), a multi-tiered cake would be required. The more tiers a cake has, the more expensive it will be, as additional tiers require more materials and ingredients and are more difficult to transport and decorate.

The type of ingredients and decorations used also impact the cost. For example, cakes with specialty ingredients, such as gluten-free or vegan options, or intricate decorations like handmade sugar flowers or edible gold leaf, will be more expensive. The type of frosting can also affect the price, with fondant or gum paste cakes typically costing more than buttercream.

Some couples may choose to have a "display" or "dummy" cake, which is a fake cake used for photos and cutting purposes, and serve guests with a less expensive sheet cake. This can be a cost-saving option, as sheet cake slices are generally cheaper than slices of a tiered cake.

To save money, couples can also consider downsizing the cake and supplementing it with other desserts, such as cookies or cupcakes, or opting for a simpler design and basic flavours like chocolate or vanilla. Additionally, the cost of a wedding cake can be reduced by providing your own cake stand/topper or using fresh flowers instead of intricate sugar flower decorations.

When budgeting for a wedding cake, it is important to consider all the factors that can influence the cost and to consult with the baker to get an accurate quote.

The history of wedding cakes

Wedding cakes have been a part of the ceremony since ancient times, with the ancient Greeks and Romans believed to be among the first to incorporate cakes into wedding celebrations. In Ancient Rome, a cake of wheat or barley was broken over the bride's head to symbolise the end of her virginal state and the groom's subsequent dominance over her, as well as to bring good luck and fertility to the couple.

During the Middle Ages, wedding cakes were stacked as high as possible, and the newlyweds would attempt to kiss over the top of the stack. If they succeeded without knocking the cake over, it was believed that they would be blessed with many children. In England, this tradition evolved to include throwing the cake at the bride to further increase her fertility.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, sugar became more affordable and white icing began to be used on wedding cakes as a symbol of the bride's virginity and the wealth of her family. The colour white has been associated with weddings since Queen Victoria chose to wear a white wedding dress when she married Prince Albert in 1840.

The modern wedding cake as we know it today originated at the wedding of Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany, in 1882. This was the first wedding cake that was completely edible, with separate layers of cake and dense icing that could be stacked.

Today, wedding cakes are often a way for couples to express themselves and their personalities, with modern pastry chefs using a variety of ingredients and tools to create unique designs.

Alternatives to wedding cakes

Wedding cakes are iconic, but they're not for everyone. If you're looking for an alternative to the traditional tiered cake, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Pies

Whether it's a small pie for the cake-cutting ceremony or a variety of mini pies for your guests, pies are a delicious alternative to cake. You can even offer a pie bar with different flavours and toppings, such as à la mode or with whipped cream.

Donuts

Donuts are a fun and versatile option for your wedding dessert. You can create a donut wall or tower, or offer a variety of flavours and toppings for your guests to choose from. Donuts can also be dressed up with blooms and stacked to create a traditional tiered cake look.

Macarons

Macarons are a elegant and colourful option, especially if you want to offer your guests a variety of flavours and colours. They can be displayed in a unique way, such as on a custom stand, or even in a tower that resembles a cake.

Cheese

For couples who prefer savoury over sweet, a cake made of stacked cheese wheels is a unique option. You can also offer a variety of cheeses and charcuterie for your guests to enjoy, or go for a sweet and savoury option with a cheesecake.

Cultural Desserts

If you want to incorporate your heritage into your wedding, consider offering a dessert that pays homage to your culture. For example, a croquembouche for a French-inspired wedding, cannolis for an Italian wedding, or churros for a Spanish-inspired celebration.

Other Alternatives

The options are endless when it comes to wedding dessert alternatives. Here are a few more ideas to consider:

• Cupcakes
• Ice cream or gelato
• Brownies or cookies
• Cake pops
• Cream puffs or eclairs
• Rice Krispie treats
• Pancakes or waffles
• Candy bar
• Fruit tarts or pastries

Wedding cake superstitions

Wedding cakes have long been a symbol of prosperity, good luck, and fertility. Here are some wedding cake superstitions:

Saving the Top Tier

It is customary for couples to save the top tier of their wedding cake to eat on their one-year anniversary. This tradition is rooted in the belief that couples would have their first child within a year of their wedding, and the saved cake would be enjoyed after the child's christening. Today, couples may choose to save their cake simply to celebrate their first anniversary, with the superstition that eating a slice of their wedding cake will bring good luck and prosperity.

Cake-Cutting Ceremony

The cake-cutting ceremony is one of the first activities a couple does together as newlyweds, symbolizing their unity and shared responsibility. In ancient Rome, a similar tradition existed where a loaf of bread was broken over the couple's heads to bring good luck. Today, the cake-cutting ceremony is often followed by feeding cake to each other, symbolizing their commitment to provide for one another.

Fruit Toppings

Fruit toppings on wedding cakes are not just for colour and flavour but also signify luck, prosperity, and fertility for the couple. Traditionally, married couples would eat the last slices of their wedding cake after their first child's christening.

Sending a Slice Home

In the past, wedding cakes were considered party favours to be sent home with guests. Single guests would place a slice of cake under their pillow while sleeping, believing it would inspire dreams about their future spouse. Even today, some people believe that taking a slice of cake home brings good romantic fortune.

Cake Smashing

The tradition of smashing cake into each other's faces has evolved over the years. It is believed to originate from the ancient Roman tradition of breaking bread over the bride's head for good luck. Today, some couples include this ritual as a light-hearted moment to share with their partner.

Cake Pulls

Cake pulls, also known as cake charms, are a Southern US tradition with roots in the Victorian era. Guests pull on a ribbon or string of pearls attached to a small metal charm hidden between the cake layers. Each charm has a unique meaning, offering a glimpse into the guest's future.

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