A Sweet Wedding Reception: Cake, The Star Of The Show!

Wedding cake is a fun and versatile part of wedding planning. While it's not mandatory to have a wedding cake, it is a long-standing tradition. Couples who choose to forgo the cake can instead opt for alternative desserts such as cupcakes, cookies, doughnuts, or a dessert table. Those who decide to have a wedding cake can make it a special moment during the reception by cutting the cake together and feeding each other the first bite. Ultimately, the decision to have a wedding cake or not is up to the couple, and there are no wrong choices as long as they do what sounds good to them.

Cake-cutting ceremony

The cake-cutting ceremony is a symbolic tradition that has been part of weddings for centuries. Here are some tips and ideas to make your cake-cutting ceremony memorable:

History and Meaning of the Cake-Cutting Ceremony

The tradition of cutting the cake together as a couple has evolved over time. In the Victorian era, it was customary for the bride to cut the cake, also known as the "bride's cake", and distribute the pieces to the guests, symbolising fertility. As weddings became larger, the groom began to assist the bride, and now the couple cuts the cake together, symbolising their first joint task and their promise to support each other.

Timing of the Cake-Cutting Ceremony

The cake-cutting ceremony usually takes place after dinner. It signals to guests that the reception is almost over and that they can start heading home, especially older guests or those with young children. It is often done earlier in the reception to accommodate these guests and to ensure the photographer can capture the moment.

How to Cut the Cake

The couple should position themselves with one person standing closest to the cake, holding the knife with their dominant hand, and the other person standing behind, placing their hand on top. Together, they cut about an inch into the bottom tier of the cake to create stability and avoid crumbling. They can then make a connecting cut to create a wedge-shaped piece, ensuring there are at least two bites of cake for each person. The couple then feeds each other the first slice, symbolising their commitment to provide for one another.

Alternatives to a Traditional Cake

While a multi-tiered cake is traditional, some couples opt for alternatives such as cupcakes, dessert buffets, candy displays, or make-your-own-sundae bars. A "cutting cake" is a small cake used solely for the cake-cutting ceremony and is not served to the guests. This can be a more cost-effective option without sacrificing the tradition and photo opportunity.

It is essential to inform your immediate family and wedding party about your cake plans to manage expectations. If you are having a small cake or alternative dessert, let them know so they can explain to guests that there will be other dessert options. It is also important to communicate with your caterers about saving the top tier of the cake for your first anniversary or offering boxed slices for guests to take home.

Dessert alternatives

While some people may be cake traditionalists, there are plenty of other dessert options to serve at a wedding reception. Here are some ideas for dessert alternatives:

Cookies and Biscuits

Chocolate chip cookies, macarons, Oreos, and ladyfingers are all tasty options for wedding desserts. You could even have a cookie cake or a tower of cookies and biscuits.

Crepes and Waffles

Crepes can be served in a variety of ways, from sweet to savoury. Similarly, waffles can be dressed up with bacon or served as cupcakes.

Pies and Tarts

Whether it's a whole pie or mini pies, fruit tarts, or whoopie pies, these desserts are a fun alternative to cake.

Ice Cream

Ice cream cakes, sundaes, milkshakes, and ice cream sandwiches are all refreshing options for a summer wedding.

International Desserts

A croquembouche, a French dessert made of cream puffs, or millefoglie, an Italian dessert with a thousand layers of puff pastry and cream, are delicious alternatives to a traditional wedding cake.

Other Sweet Treats

From Rice Krispies treats and brownies to churros and candy bars, there are endless possibilities for dessert at a wedding reception.

Savoury Options

For couples who don't have a sweet tooth, a cheese wheel cake or a charcuterie board are savoury options that can be just as beautiful and impressive as their sweet counterparts.

Ultimately, it's your wedding, so choose whatever option sounds good to you!

Cake setup and transportation

Transporting a wedding cake is a nerve-wracking experience, but with the right preparation and care, you can ensure the cake arrives at the venue in one piece. Here are some tips for cake setup and transportation:

• Use a sturdy base: Place the bottom tier of the cake on a sturdy base, such as a cake drum or cake board. This provides support and stability during transportation.
• Chill the cake: Keep the cake chilled before and during transportation. This helps the cake hold its shape and prevents it from becoming too soft.
• Secure the tiers: Use wooden dowels to secure each tier of the cake to the base and to each other. This prevents the tiers from shifting or sliding.
• Use a cake box: Transport the cake in a large, sturdy cake box that is slightly wider than the cake drum or board. This protects the cake from bumps during the journey.
• Reserve a flat space in your vehicle: Ensure your vehicle has a large, flat surface to place the cake box on. Avoid placing it on a lap or a tilted seat, as this can cause the cake to wobble and slide.
• Keep the vehicle cool: Maintain a cool temperature in your vehicle during transportation. Use air conditioning and avoid direct sunlight to prevent the cake from melting.
• Drive carefully: Drive slowly and carefully, avoiding sudden stops or sharp turns. Have someone sit next to the cake box to hold it steady.
• Save the cake stand for the venue: It is recommended to place the cake on the cake stand at the venue, rather than transporting it already on the stand. This reduces the risk of damage during transportation.
• Bring a cake repair kit: Pack a small kit with extra frosting, icing spatulas, and other decorating tools. This allows you to make any necessary touch-ups or repairs to the cake once you arrive at the venue.
• Contact the venue: Get in touch with the venue to request any assistance you may need in transferring the cake from your vehicle to the reception area. They may be able to provide a trolley or table on wheels.
• Assembly and storage: If the cake tiers are transported separately, assemble them at the venue. Contact the venue in advance to ensure they have adequate refrigeration space to store the cake until it is served.

Cake-serving etiquette

A wedding cake is a significant detail of the big day, with its own moment at the reception. Here are some tips for cake-serving etiquette:

Planning and Preparation

It is recommended to order your wedding cake at least six months in advance, and up to 12 months if your wedding is during peak season. This gives your baker enough time to work their magic and ensures availability. It is also beneficial to finalise other key details, such as colour schemes and venue, before deciding on the cake design. This way, you can select a cake that complements your wedding style and theme.

Timing

The timing of the cake-cutting plays a role in your reception. Traditionally, it was the last moment of the reception, signalling to guests that they could leave. Nowadays, it usually takes place shortly after dinner and before dancing begins. Cutting the cake early, even before dinner, has several advantages: it ensures your photographer gets those special pictures, and it makes slicing and serving easier for your catering staff. They can cut the cake while guests are eating dinner and serve it as a plated dessert course.

Serving

The traditional way for the newlywed couple to cut the cake is to place both sets of hands on the knife and cut an inch into the cake, then slice it down. Then, make a connecting cut for a wedge and use the knife to lift it onto a plate. Skip the serving spatula, as it is much larger than the slice and will make a mess. When serving, carefully remove each slice using a knife and fork, placing the widest part of the cake on the plate. Be sure to clean your knife regularly.

Leftovers

It is traditional for the bride and groom to save the top tier of their wedding cake to share on their first anniversary. Be sure to tell your baker and caterer in advance so they don't accidentally serve it. You can also provide favour boxes for guests who want to take a slice of cake home.

Wedding cake styles

Wedding cakes are a focal point of the wedding reception and a crucial moment for the happy couple to share their first official sweet bite as husband and wife. The cake should fit the look and feel of the venue setting and theme.

• White wedding cakes are a classic choice, often featuring piped detailing, a smooth finish, and ribbon or flower decorations.
• Black wedding cakes offer a modern and elegant twist on the traditional white cake.
• Blue wedding cakes can add a touch of serenity and calm to your special day.
• Grey wedding cakes are subtle and versatile, complementing various wedding themes and colour palettes.
• Green wedding cakes evoke a natural and refreshing vibe, perfect for outdoor weddings.
• Metallic wedding cakes make a bold statement with their shiny and lustrous finish.
• Geometric wedding cakes feature clean lines and shapes, ideal for a contemporary celebration.
• Polka dot wedding cakes are playful and whimsical, adding a touch of fun to your big day.
• Lace wedding cakes evoke a romantic and elegant vibe, often featuring intricate detailing.
• Marble wedding cakes offer a unique and stylish design, resembling the swirls and veins of natural marble.
• Flowerfetti wedding cakes are adorned with fresh or sugar flowers, adding a touch of nature to your celebration.
• Striped wedding cakes feature clean lines and bold patterns, making a stylish statement.
• Geode wedding cakes take inspiration from natural crystal formations, adding a touch of sparkle and glamour.
• Hand-painted wedding cakes allow you to incorporate custom designs, patterns, or motifs that reflect your theme.
• Winter wedding cakes often feature icy blues, whites, and silver details, capturing the magic of the season.
• Calligraphy wedding cakes showcase elegant lettering or illustrations, perhaps featuring the couple's initials or a special message.
• Chalkboard wedding cakes are unique and playful, resembling a chalkboard with creative designs or messages.
• Red velvet wedding cakes offer a rich and indulgent experience, perfect for a romantic celebration.
• Sprinkle wedding cakes are playful and colourful, adorned with sprinkles of various shapes, sizes, and colours.
• Colour drip wedding cakes feature a smooth ganache or icing drip down the sides, often paired with fresh flowers or macarons.
• Naked ombre wedding cakes have a natural and rustic charm, with layers of different colours peeking through the bare cake.
• One-tier wedding cakes are simple and elegant, perfect for smaller weddings or as an additional cake to serve alongside a larger one.
• Pink wedding cakes are romantic and playful, ranging from soft blush to vibrant fuchsia shades.
• Rose gold wedding cakes capture the beauty of the metal, often featuring metallic accents or a subtle pink hue.
• Feather wedding cakes incorporate feathers or feather-like icing designs, adding a touch of whimsy and elegance.
• Concrete wedding cakes are unique and industrial, perfect for a modern or urban-themed wedding.
• Naked wedding cakes showcase the layers of cake and filling, creating a rustic and simplistic look.
• Brushstroke wedding cakes feature artistic brushstroke designs, often in soft pastel hues, for a creative and whimsical effect.
• Shag wedding cakes resemble a shaggy rug with their textured icing, adding a playful and tactile element to your celebration.
• Spatula-painted wedding cakes are painted with a spatula to create a unique and artistic design, often featuring bold colours and textures.
• Fault line wedding cakes have a hidden surprise inside, revealing a colourful or patterned design when cut open.
• Kitsch buttercream wedding cakes are playful and creative, often featuring bright colours, unique flavours, and whimsical designs.
• Candy-covered wedding cakes are adorned with sweets and treats, taking your guests back to their childhood.
• Pavlova wedding cakes are inspired by the meringue-based dessert, often featuring a light and airy texture and a delicate flavour profile.
• Vintage-style wedding cakes take inspiration from past decades, incorporating vintage details, colours, or motifs.
• Summer berry wedding cakes celebrate the flavours and colours of summer, often featuring fresh berries and a light, fruity taste.
• Autumn wedding cakes embrace the warm hues and flavours of the season, such as spiced cakes or fall-inspired decorations.
• Fig wedding cakes incorporate the sweetness of figs, either in the cake itself or as a decorative element.
• Bundt wedding cakes offer a unique shape and style, often featuring a ring-shaped design and a delicate flavour.
• Rice Krispie wedding cakes are a playful twist on the traditional cake, made with the beloved crispy rice treats.

Frequently asked questions