EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR WEDDING CAKE
A delicious affair, the wedding cake. The crown jewel of your big day. A detail so significant, it has its very own moment at the reception. Who would have thought a baked good could be held in such high regard? Everyone that's ever dreamt about their wedding day. And while everybody loves wedding cake, choosing one for your special day is no piece of cake.
You've got fillings and frostings, and that's just the beginning of the cake-making journey. There's also toppers and dessert tables, and...oh my. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't worry. We're here to help.
From flavor and design to alternative desserts and when to serve them, we've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about wedding cake etiquette to help you pick out the perfect sweet ending.
How do we pick THE design?
Keep it real and keep it authentic. Don't go with the generic white, multi-tiered cake that we have all been eating at weddings since we were five years old. I know that this is an option that may come with your venue choice charge-free, but do you really want your cake cutting photos to be the same with any other couple that is getting married? Work with your wedding planner and pick a design that stays true to your mood board and really reflects your style. Like with your wedding bouquet, your wedding cake cutting photo may be sitting on your mantelpiece for years to come, so make sure your cake is a sight for sore eyes.
HOW MANY FLAVORS CAN WE HAVE?
There's no reason for you to settle for just one cake flavor when you can have two—or more! Bakers today often prepare tiers that feature different cake and filling combinations in order to satisfy the couples’ individual preferences, as well as their guests’ too. Discuss with your baker how to divide the flavors evenly across each layer, and consider a slightly larger cake.
SHOULD WE OFFER MORE DESSERTS?
A slice of cake really does sound like dessert to us. As a wedding tradition (and a favorite celebratory dish year-round), it is a nice way to conclude the meal. Of course, there’s nothing stopping you from adding a little variety. For some extra sweetness, have your caterers set trays of truffles and chocolate-covered strawberries on each table as a sweet bite that’s not quite as filling as a big slice of cake. Or opt for a composed cake plate, with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of sauce to enhance that slice. If you want extra energy for the late-night dance party, serve guests additional desserts such as milk and cookies, or arrange an ice cream sundae bar.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME
TO CUT OUR CAKE?
Even though it might seem arbitrary, the timing of your cake cutting plays a critical role in your reception. In the past, cutting your cake signaled to guests that it was ok for them to call it a night and go home. Even though cake cutting takes place earlier today, it still serves the same purpose. The cake is normally cut shortly after dinner, just before dancing begins, and is the last "official" event of the evening. Cutting your cake early will allow your grandmother or your great uncle to feel welcome to leave at any time without missing any formalities.
WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO
CUT THE WEDDING CAKE?
Do you and your partner ever practice cutting a cake together? If not, that's entirely understandable: it's tricky to have two hands on the cake knife at once. The neatest options are the box or wedge options. Place the groom behind the bride and place both your hands on the knife. Remove the piece by making an inch-wide cut in the cake, then a connecting cut using a cake knife to lift the wedge onto the plate. Don't use a serving spatula since it's too large for a slice and you will definitely be making a mess.
DO WE HAVE TO HAVE
A WEDDING CAKE?
Yes! Yes! A thousand times yes! Even if it is just for the ceremonial cake cutting. If you and your partner prefer something in addition to a cake, like fruit pies, doughnuts, or cookies, there are beautiful alternatives. Arrange them on cake stands or attractive trays, and feel free to sneak one into your mouth as your first sweet bite of marital bliss. Not a fan? Don’t skip dessert altogether because it’s a conclusion to the meal and guests will be expecting it. Instead, talk to your caterer about a plated option after the entrées or arrange for a dessert bar where guests can pick their favorite dessert. For an extra special touch, pair the sweets with a coffee or a nightcap or combination thereof.
Konstantina Lafara
Owner & Creative Director
Soo Events
