If weddings attest to our belief in commitment, than wedding cakes celebrate all that is fun and frivolous at the reception. A wedding cake is universally acknowledged as an object of extreme reverence and joy.
The most memorable wedding cakes are as imaginative as they are delicious. I personally love a bit of contrast or some element of surprise, such as morsels of fresh fruit inside layers of frosting or a chocolate cake under a sea of white butter cream. Texture is also important.
Since many wedding venues have bakers on staff, they may require that the cake be made in-house, so the food contract should be checked. Study magazines, books and tear sheets for inspiration. If local bakers are uninspiring, it is feasible to have a wedding cake shipped from another location. Most competent professionals have extensive look-books to peruse.
Cutting the cake represents the start of the newlywed’s life together. The groom places his right hand over the bride’s to guide it for the first cut. Superstition requires that the bride cut the first piece. The groom feeds the bride, then she in turn feeds him. This shared piece of cake symbolizes their first meal together.
As formal toasts usually follow the cutting of the cake, it is best to schedule this fairly early on. This is also an ideal opportunity for guests who wish to depart early to do so.
As for the Groom’s cake, historically, is a dark, rich cake heavily laden with dried fruits, nuts and honey. Today, however, it can come in any shape, size, flavor or motif. It may be served as part of the dessert buffet, alongside the wedding cake, or sliced, wrapped in tissue and boxed with ribbon as a party favor. The groom’s cake also provides an opportunity for the bride to highlight some of the groom’s most endearing idiosyncrasies. As with the wedding cake, make certain that it tastes as good as it looks.
