Wedding cake designs are always evolving. From marble effects to geometric shapes, there are a lot of options out there for brides wanting something extra special on their big day. But sometimes, less is more and simple wedding cakes can be just as beautiful — and much easier on the budget. If you’re looking for a more understated cake, try adding a few details like ruffles or edible pearls to the tiers instead of covering them in frosting. It’s a pretty subtle look that can really add some personality to your wedding cake.
Getting inspired by your wedding dress for your cake is always a good idea. If you have a lace gown, for example, you could have your baker replicate the design in fondant. Or, you could go a little more out-there and camouflage your entire cake to make it look like a piece of art. This gorgeous design by The Orchid Kitchen looks just like a sculpture at the Tate Modern.
Even something as simple as a block gold tier can be a show-stopper if it’s done well, like this beauty from Deluce Cakes. It’s a perfect balance of glitzy and sophisticated, with the gold paint adding dimension to the cake. The hand-painted flowers and flower topper elevate it to a whole other level.
The practice of covering a wedding cake in white icing originated around the time of Queen Victoria’s nuptials. Back then, sugar was expensive, and the white icing gave the cake a more elegant appearance so it would be fit for a royal wedding. Today, it’s more of a tradition that we keep because it’s a nice way to celebrate the love between a new couple.
If you’re not a fan of traditional cake, you can also opt for an alternative dessert like pie or donuts. Or you can skip the cake altogether and have a variety of sweet treats like pies, donuts, or cupcakes on your table instead. We’ve seen this at more and more weddings, and it’s a great way to cater to everyone’s tastes while keeping the budget in check.
Another trend that has us totally smitten is the use of color on wedding cakes. Bold colors give a more contemporary feel to the design and they look so good against white fondant or buttercream. You can also go for a metallic theme with gold, silver, or rose-gold icing to make your wedding cake stand out.
Whatever your cake style, be sure to choose a flavor you and your future spouse will enjoy eating. Luckily, many bakers now offer vegan and gluten-free options so you don’t have to sacrifice deliciousness for your special day.
When it comes to eating your cake, don’t forget the fun tradition of smashing or feeding each other bites of your wedding cake. The idea is to mark your first act together as a married couple and a commitment to create a shared life. How seriously you take this is up to you, but it’s a great way to start your marriage with some sweetness!