A New Take On Wedding Cakes

Wedding cakes have existed almost as long as the wedding ritual itself. As early as ancient times, the Romans ate a cake of flour, salt, and water, during the actual ceremony. (I know! It doesn’t sound that appetizing to me either, but the tradition had to start somewhere!) The wedding cake that we are more familiar with originated in Britain. It was a fruitcake, with the fruits and nuts as symbols of fertility. The custom was, and continues to be today, that the bride and groom must cut the cake together, symbolizing their unity, a shared future, and their life together as one. It’s a romantic tradition, and one that many couples continue to incorporate into their wedding day celebration.

This whimsical winter creation is just one example of what is possible! – Photo courtesy of Allan Maude Photography; Cake design by Cake Creations

Wedding cakes have come a long way over the past few decades. They come in every shape and size, and pretty much every flavour. It’s become an art form unto itself. Especially with television shows such as TLC’s Cake Boss and Fabulous Cakes, our imaginations are being put to test. Nothing is considered impossible anymore!

More recently, there have been a greater variety of non-traditional wedding cakes. The most popular variation, of course, are cupcakes. Towers of cupcakes are becoming more and more commonplace, especially after their ringing endorsement by wedding gurus, such as Martha Stewart. Whether they are all the same, or made of different flavours, they are assembled in the same multi-tiered shape and use a common decorating theme. One definite advantage to think about is that there is no cake cutting required as guests just come along and select one at their convenience.

Cupcakes are fun! It’s easy to have different flavours, and you can even incorporate a top tier of a real cake for the couples that want to save it for their first anniversary. – Photo courtesy Cakery Bakery

The one thing that I’ve learned since starting in the wedding industry is that there is no limit to what is possible. “Cakes” are being made of almost every edible sweet substance imaginable! I’ve seen everything from chocolate truffles, cookies, and even marshmallows. It’s definitely no longer the era of the wedding cakes that our grandparents are familiar with.

The bar has truly been lifted in terms of wedding cakes and what can be achieved. It’s a great way to incorporate wedding theme and colors, but more importantly, it’s a chance for the couple to have some fun and choose something that reflects their personalities and shows a bit of who they are. Have fun with it and may the creative spirit move you!

Photo courtesy of Cakery Bakery

------------------------------------------

Cathy MacRae is a certified wedding and event planner, and owner of Creative Weddings and Occasions and Del Sol Destination Weddings. Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, she plans wedding for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area, who want a wedding that is a unique and personal reflection of them. She is also a destination wedding specialist, working with couples who desire to wed in various picturesque dream locations throughout the world. For more information about planning your own wedding or for advice from Cathy, please contact her at info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com.

You are welcome to publish this article in other blogs or e-zines, but please ensure the signature file above is printed along with the article.