The Perfect Stands For Your Wedding Cake

A wedding cake is a significant part of the big day, and its presentation is just as important as its design and flavour. The cake stand is a crucial element, adding height and drama to the display. The size of the stand should complement the cake, with the stand being the same size or slightly bigger than the bottom tier. The cake table should also be considered, with the right proportions and a thoughtful linen choice to make the cake stand out. The location of the cake should be central, allowing guests to admire and enjoy it. Lighting is also key, ensuring the cake is well-lit for photos. Overall, a wedding cake is more than just a dessert, it's a reflection of the couple's personal style and an important part of the wedding décor.

Cake stands and tables

A wedding cake is a centrepiece at the reception, so it's important to display it on a suitable stand or table.

Cake Stands

A cake stand is a must for adding height and drama to the presentation of your wedding cake. Choose a stand that is the same size or slightly bigger than the bottom tier of your cake. If you plan to decorate the cake with flowers or other details, opt for a larger stand. A cake stand can also make a small cake appear bigger, which is ideal if you're on a budget. You can even use multiple stands to stagger and arrange round cakes or separate tiers.

Cake Tables

The cake table should be the right proportion to the size of your cake. If the table is too big, the cake will look dwarfed, and if it's too small, the cake may not fit safely. A taller, smaller table can make a cake appear larger, so consider a cocktail table for a smaller cake. The cake table should be reserved only for the cake, with no other items like plates, glasses, or cutlery. A simple table decoration, such as candles, a bouquet, or a table linen in a colour that contrasts with the cake, can enhance the display without being distracting.

Creative Display Ideas

If you're looking for a unique way to showcase your wedding cake, consider suspending it from a swing or chandelier, or displaying it inside an antique cage or cloche. Other creative ideas include using a vintage writing desk, an old wine barrel, a rustic wooden platform, or a stack of wooden crates as a cake stand or table.

Linens and lighting

Linens

The linen you choose for your cake table can enhance the overall aesthetic of your wedding cake. Custom linens can be expensive, but you can opt for a custom cloth specifically for the cake table, which will be more affordable and still make an impact. Consider the colour of the linen in relation to your cake. Avoid placing a white cake on a white tablecloth, as it will blend together in photographs. Instead, opt for coloured linen or lighter linen for a darker cake to make your cake stand out.

Lighting

Lighting is crucial to showcasing your wedding cake. Avoid placing your cake in a dark corner, and instead, opt for an area with great lighting. You can also bring in additional lighting, such as string lights, fairy lights, or bulbs, to illuminate the cake and create a magical backdrop for photos. A spotlight on the cake can also be very effective, but ensure the light is not too hot to avoid melting the cake.

In addition to these tips, remember to consider the size and location of your cake table. Ensure the table is the right proportion to the cake and that the cake is displayed front and centre, perhaps near the entrance of the dining room or in the middle of the dance floor. By combining the right linens and lighting with thoughtful placement, you can create a stunning and memorable display for your wedding cake.

Cake toppers

Types of Cake Toppers

• Classic Couple Cake Toppers: These toppers usually feature a bride and groom, often in a romantic pose. They can be customised to resemble the couple, including their hairstyles, outfits, and sometimes even their hobbies or interests.
• Monogram Cake Toppers: A monogram cake topper is an elegant way to add a personal touch. It can feature the couple's initials or names, often in a stylish font or design.
• Floral Cake Toppers: Flowers, whether fresh or sugar paste, are a popular choice for cake toppers. They can add a touch of elegance and colour to your cake. You can choose flowers that match your wedding theme or colour palette.
• Themed Cake Toppers: If you have a specific wedding theme, you can choose a cake topper to match. For example, a rustic wedding might feature a wooden cake topper with a burlap banner, while a fairy-tale wedding could have a castle or crown topper.
• Humorous Cake Toppers: Inject some fun into your wedding cake with a humorous cake topper. These can feature light-hearted phrases, inside jokes, or quirky designs that reflect the couple's personality.

Choosing the Right Cake Topper

When selecting a cake topper, consider the overall style and theme of your wedding. Here are a few tips:

• Size and Proportion: Choose a cake topper that is proportionate to the size of your cake. A small cake may be overwhelmed by a large topper, while a tiny topper may get lost on a grand, multi-tiered cake.
• Colour and Contrast: Consider the colour of your cake when choosing a topper. For example, if you have a white cake, avoid a white cake topper, as it may blend in. Opt for colours or materials that create a visually appealing contrast.
• Personalisation: Cake toppers can be customised to reflect your interests, hobbies, or even your cultural background. Don't be afraid to think outside the box and choose something unique to you as a couple.
• Timing: If you plan to keep your cake topper as a memento, consider ordering it early in the planning process to avoid last-minute stress.

Displaying Your Cake Topper

• Placement: Position your cake topper in the centre of the cake, ensuring it is secure and won't topple over. If using fresh flowers, place them in a small vase or floral foam to keep them hydrated.
• Lighting: Ensure your cake and topper are well-lit. Proper lighting will enhance the visual appeal of your cake and create a perfect backdrop for photographs.
• Surrounding Decorations: Keep the decorations around your cake simple and uncluttered. Avoid placing too many items on the cake table, as this can distract from the cake and topper.
• Height and Dimension: Consider using cake stands or varying cake heights to add dimension to your display. This can create a visually appealing setup, especially when using multiple cakes or desserts.

Cake cutting

The wedding cake is a significant part of the wedding day, and the cake-cutting ceremony is a symbolic tradition. Here are some tips and suggestions for the cake-cutting ceremony:

Location and Presentation:

It is recommended to place the wedding cake front and centre, either near the entrance of the dining room or in the middle of the dance floor, so that guests can admire it. Ensure the cake is well-lit, creating the perfect backdrop for photos. Consider the size of the table; a smaller cake may benefit from being placed on a taller cocktail table to add height and drama. The table should be the right proportion to the cake, not too big or too small. A cake stand can also add height and drama to the presentation and make a great keepsake.

Timing:

The cake-cutting ceremony usually happens after dinner, between dinner and the parent dances, signalling to guests that the reception is almost over. It is often one of the last "official" events of the evening, so it is best to schedule it earlier in the reception so older guests or those with young children can leave after if they wish. It also ensures the photographer can capture the moment and catering staff have more time to cut and serve the cake.

The Cake Cutting:

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. Cut about an inch into the bottom tier of the cake, avoiding a sawing motion to prevent the cake from crumbling. Then, make a connecting cut to create a wedge. You can also cut a square-shaped piece by making a parallel slice. Finally, use a server to gently place the piece of cake on a plate.

Feeding the Cake:

Traditionally, the couple feeds each other the first slice of cake, symbolising their commitment to providing for one another. This can be a neat feeding or a playful cake smash, whichever you prefer. Discuss this with your partner beforehand and ensure napkins or a warm, damp cloth are on hand to wipe up any crumbs or frosting.

Serving the Guests:

Once the initial piece is cut, the catering staff will take over, bringing the cake back to the kitchen to slice for the rest of the guests. If you plan to save the top tier for your first anniversary, inform the catering staff in advance. It is also a nice gesture to offer boxed slices for guests to take home.

Cake alternatives

If you don't want to go for a traditional wedding cake, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Cupcakes: Cupcakes are a popular choice for weddings, as they can be decorated in a variety of ways and can be easily customised to match your wedding colours or theme.
• Donut walls: Donuts are a fun and tasty alternative to cake, and displaying them on a wall adds a visual element to your dessert table.
• Macarons: These colourful French pastries are a great choice if you're looking for something elegant and refined. They can be displayed in a variety of ways, such as on a custom stand or as part of a dessert table.
• Pies: Whether you choose a traditional fruit pie or something more unique, like a key lime pie, pies are a delicious and rustic alternative to cake.
• Cheesecake: For something a little different, consider a cheesecake. They can be made in a variety of flavours and can be decorated with fresh fruit or chocolate.
• Ice cream: Perfect for a summer wedding, ice cream can be served in cones, cups, or as ice cream sandwiches. You could even have an ice cream sundae bar!
• Cookies: Why not stack your favourite cookies into a wedding cake shape? Oreos are a popular choice, but you could also offer a variety of different cookies for your guests to choose from.
• Cake pops: Cake pops are a portable and colourful alternative to traditional cake. They can be made in a variety of flavours and colours to match your wedding theme.
• Candy bar: Fill jars or containers with your favourite candies and let your guests help themselves. This is a great option if you want to offer a variety of treats, and it can also double as a favour for your guests.
• Cheese wheels: For something savoury, consider a cake-inspired display of cheese wheels. This is a unique option that your guests will surely remember!

No matter what alternative you choose, your wedding dessert is sure to be a hit with your guests. Get creative and choose something that reflects your personal taste and style!

Frequently asked questions