When planning your wedding, the cake is one of those traditions that sparks debate. Some couples can’t imagine their big day without a classic tiered cake, while others see it as an unnecessary expense. And then there are those who love the idea of dessert but want something a little different.
If you’re wondering whether to go the traditional route, skip the cake entirely, or get creative with your dessert table, this guide will help you decide.
3 Reasons to Have a Wedding Cake
1. It’s a Classic Wedding Tradition
Cutting the cake is one of the most well-known wedding traditions. For many couples, it’s a symbolic moment that represents the first thing they do together as a married couple. If you love the idea of keeping classic elements in your wedding, a cake is a great choice.
2. It Makes for Beautiful Photos
A well-designed wedding cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a statement piece. Whether you go for a sleek, modern design or an elaborate, floral-covered masterpiece, it adds a stunning visual element to your reception and makes for great photos.
3. Guests Expect It
If you’re planning a more traditional wedding, some guests might look forward to the cake-cutting moment. It’s a sweet way to bring everyone together for a shared experience, and let’s be honest—who doesn’t love dessert?
3 Reasons to Skip the Cake
1. It Can Be Expensive
Wedding cakes aren’t cheap, especially if you’re going for a multi-tiered, custom design. If you’re looking for places to cut costs in your budget, skipping the cake could save you hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars.
2. Not Everyone Eats Cake
Believe it or not, not everyone likes cake. Some guests may skip it entirely, leaving you with leftover slices you paid for but didn’t need. If you know your crowd isn’t big on cake, it might not be worth the investment.
3. It’s Not the Only Dessert Option
A wedding cake isn’t your only choice for a sweet treat. If you and your partner love donuts, cookies, or ice cream, why not go with something that reflects your personalities instead?
Creative Wedding Cake Alternatives
If you love dessert but don’t want a traditional wedding cake, here are some fun alternatives to consider:
Cupcake Tower – Easy to serve, no cutting required, and guests can grab their favorite flavors.
Donut Wall – A visually fun and delicious option that guests will love.
Mini Dessert Bar – Offer a variety of sweets like macarons, brownies, and fruit tarts.
Cheese Wheel Cake – If you prefer savory over sweet, stack wheels of cheese for a unique “cake” alternative.
Ice Cream or Gelato Bar – Perfect for summer weddings and a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Pies or Tarts – A cozy, rustic option that’s great for fall weddings.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
At the end of the day, your wedding dessert should reflect what you love. If you’ve always dreamed of cutting a classic tiered cake, go for it. If you’d rather serve something different, there are plenty of creative options that will make your reception feel unique to you.
No matter what you choose, make sure it fits your wedding vision, your budget, and—most importantly—your taste buds.
If you’re still piecing together your wedding plans and want to make sure every detail is beautifully captured, I’d love to help. Fill out the contact form below if you’re looking for photography or videography, and let’s chat about how I can document all the little moments that make your day unforgettable!