The Cake's Emotional Wedding Day

The wedding cake is a time-honoured tradition, with a rich history that dates back to ancient Roman times. The cake-cutting ceremony symbolises the couple's first joint task as newlyweds, reflecting their promise to support and care for each other. The custom of the bride distributing cake, which represented fertility, to the guests has evolved into a joint effort by the couple as weddings became larger affairs. The cake itself has also evolved from plain, fruitcake-like creations to decadent, tiered confections.

The cake-cutting ceremony

Today, the cake-cutting ceremony has evolved to become a symbol of the couple's unity and their first joint task as newlyweds. The couple usually cuts the cake after dinner, and it often signifies to older guests that the day's activities are coming to an end. The couple typically cuts the cake together, with one partner placing their hand over the other's as they cut the first slice, representing their promise to support each other and reflecting their first responsibility as a married couple.

The couple is encouraged to cut from the bottom tier as a reminder of the relationship's longevity, and guests believe that having cake after the couple has cut it will bring them good luck. The newlyweds usually feed each other the first slice, symbolising their commitment to providing for one another.

Some couples choose to preserve the top tier of their wedding cake to eat on their first anniversary, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century when couples would eat the cake on their first child's christening day.

The colour of the icing

In time, coloured icing was introduced, and tiered cakes with elaborate designs indicated even greater wealth and status. Today, the colour of the icing on a wedding cake is often chosen to match the couple's wedding colours or theme. It is also common for couples to opt for a simple, sleek design or a more decadent, tiered cake.

When selecting the colour of the icing, couples should consider the overall design and style of the cake, as well as their personality and the impression they want to make. The flavour of the cake can also be reflected in the colour of the icing, creating a cohesive and appealing dessert. For example, a rich, chocolatey cake might be paired with a deep brown or creamy tan icing, while a light and fruity cake might be complemented by a soft pastel or vibrant shade.

Additionally, the couple may want to consider the temperature and setting of their wedding when choosing the colour of the icing. If the wedding is outdoors or in a warm climate, certain icings may be more prone to melting or becoming soft. In such cases, a sturdier icing in a complementary colour may be a more suitable choice.

Overall, the colour of the icing on a wedding cake can be a fun and creative way for couples to express themselves and add a unique touch to their special day.

The cake topper

Wedding cake toppers date back hundreds of years. The tradition is said to have started when a baker's daughter wanted her cake to be extra special, so they fashioned a bride and groom for the top of her cake to resemble the couple. This idea stuck, and the wedding cake topper was born.

Today, cake toppers come in all shapes and sizes and can be personalised to reflect the couple's style and personality. Some couples may opt for a more traditional bride-and-groom topper, while others may choose something more unique, such as their favourite hobbies or interests.

In addition to the visual appeal, the cake topper can also hold symbolic meaning for the couple. It can represent their unity, love, and commitment to each other, as well as their journey towards starting a new life together.

The groom's cake

The cake-cutting ceremony is a significant aspect of the wedding reception. It symbolises the couple's unity and their first joint task as a married couple. During the ceremony, one partner places their hand over the other's while cutting the first slice of cake, representing their promise to support each other and reflecting their first responsibility as newlyweds.

The cake-tasting

At the tasting, you and your partner will meet with your cake baker or caterer to discuss and sample different cake, frosting, and filling combinations. This is also a good opportunity to talk about the design and size of your cake. The number of tiers, for example, will affect the price. It is important to give the baker all the information about your venue, the season, and whether the wedding will be indoors or outdoors, so that they can ensure the cake will last throughout the event.

You should also use the tasting to ask the baker any questions you have about the cake. This could include asking about order minimums, the number of tiers needed to feed your guest list, the types of mediums they work with, and whether they use fresh or sugar flowers. You can also ask about additional desserts, cake stands, delivery, and fees.

Before you go to the tasting, it is a good idea to narrow down your flavour choices, so that you can arrive with a general idea of the flavour profile you want. For example, you might want to try options that are fruity and light, or rich and chocolatey.

Frequently asked questions