The tiered white cake has long been the centrepiece of the wedding reception. Couples cut it together, feed each other a slice and pose for photographs. But cakes can be expensive, and in hot weather they can be hard to keep looking perfect. A growing number of couples are choosing alternatives that are cheaper, easier to serve or simply more fun.
Cupcakes, dessert tables and local treats
Cupcake towers look festive and are easy to serve. Each guest takes one, and there is no need for cutting. Some couples order a small cake for the cutting ceremony and serve guests sheet cake or other desserts from the kitchen. A dessert table with cakes, pastries, cookies and sweets lets guests choose their favourites.
Ghanaian and Nigerian snacks such as chin chin, puff puff, bofrot and coconut toffee can be presented in jars or towers.
Fruit, ice cream and cost
Fruit platters and fruit towers with pineapple, watermelon and mango are refreshing in hot weather. An ice cream stand can be popular, especially at outdoor weddings. Doughnut walls have become a fun trend for receptions. Compare the cost of alternatives with a traditional cake. Some options may save money, while elaborate dessert tables can cost as much.
Consider family expectations. Some relatives may want to see a traditional cake cutting.
Heat, presentation and the cutting moment
Choose desserts that hold up in heat, or keep them refrigerated until serving. Work with your decorator so the dessert display fits your colours and theme. If you skip a big cake, you can still have a symbolic moment, such as cutting a small cake or sharing the first cupcake. Guests and photographers will still get their picture.
Dessert tables make it easier to offer options for guests who avoid sugar, gluten or dairy.
Quantity and tasting
Plan for at least one dessert portion per guest, and a little extra. Assign staff to manage the dessert area so it stays tidy. Small boxes let guests take treats home. Taste samples from two or three bakers before you book, and ask to see photos of their past displays. The cake cutting is a tradition worth keeping for many couples. For others, a tower of chin chin or a table of cupcakes says just as much about the sweetness of the day.
