Wedding cake etiquette

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One of the most memorable parts of the wedding reception is the cutting of the cake. Couples will most likely incorporate their tastes and preferences into the designing and presentation of the cake. Following the proper etiquette will make this portion of the wedding especially enjoyable.

1. Two Wedding Cakes

   • If the bride and groom want different flavors to be included in the cake, it is perfectly acceptable to have two main wedding cakes large enough to feed all the guests. The couple can also have one large cake made of different cake flavors--for example, the first three layers can be made of traditional white cake, and the remaining three layers can be baked with chocolate.

   Groom's Cake

   • The cake baked for the groom can be in any flavor that the groom wants, but is often a chocolate cake- some cakes are also varieties of fruitcake. A groom's cake is also a sheet cake in many cases, but can be baked in a shape that reflects the groom's hobbies or interests, such as a cake in the shape of a fishing rod or book. The groom's cake is traditionally given to guests as they are leaving the reception- pieces are wrapped or covered in a plate so that guests can easily transport the cake home. The groom's cake is cut, according to etiquette, a few minutes before the reception is over. Traditional etiquette also suggests that the bride's family pays for the groom's cake, as the family of the bride is responsible for the cost of the wedding reception.

   Cutting the Cake

   • Traditionally, the main wedding cake, like the groom's cake, was cut at the end of the wedding reception. However, most couples choose to cut the cake right after dinner, and right before guests are invited to come on the dance floor. According to etiquette, the cutting of the cake is the signal to the reception guests that it is all right to leave the reception without being perceived as rude. Cutting the cake earlier in the ceremony is also a way for couples to have the photographer capture the bride and groom feeding one another without having to wait until the couple is tired and less motivated to take pictures.

   Wedding Cupcakes

   • Some couples elect to have wedding cupcakes in the shape of a wedding cake at the reception. This, however, may not elicit the same traditional response from guests, as cupcakes are a more modern take on wedding dessert. It is acceptable for the bride and groom to take pictures nibbling on each side of the cupcake, or to cut the cupcake in half and feed it to one another. Since the cupcakes don't have to be cut, the host of the reception can simply announce that dessert is about to be served when the couple gives the OK.

   Having a Wedding Cake

   • It is not required for couples to have a wedding cake at the reception, although it is tradition. If the bride and groom have another dessert at their celebration, it is best to choose a pastry or cake that the couple can easily feed to each other. This makes for good pictures, and is usually an indication that the dessert will be simple for guests to eat as well. White desserts are a favorable option, so cheesecakes or pastries made from ingredients like coconut or white chocolate chips are ideal.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: bride groom, groom cake, wedding reception, cake etiquette, cake reception, couples have, cutting cake