Buttercream or chocolate. Custom or classic. Selecting the perfect wedding cake can be a daunting task for many couples. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide on the right one for your special day. From the stylistic choices to the delivery and setup, there are so many things to consider when ordering a wedding cake. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of wedding cakes and other considerations to help you choose the one that’s perfect for you.

Cake Style

First, let’s start with the style of the cake. When it comes to styles of wedding cakes, there are a few popular options to choose from. The style of wedding cake you choose should reflect your personal taste and the overall theme and style of your wedding. Are you the simple kind of person who doesn’t like a ton of fluff? A classic cake may be for you. Maybe you are a maximalist who wouldn’t dare be caught dead with a basic cake. 

Without further ado, here are a few of the most popular styles of wedding cakes:

Classic: The classic wedding cake is a timeless pick that will never go out of style. It typically features a white or ivory cake with simple, elegant decorations such as flowers or ribbon. This is a great option for a traditional or formal wedding.

Rustic: A rustic wedding cake is a great option for an outdoor or country-themed wedding. The cake itself can be made with simple, rustic ingredients such as nuts and fruits.

Modern: A modern wedding cake is a great option for a contemporary wedding. It typically features clean lines, geometric shapes, and minimalist decorations. This can be a great option for couples who want to make a statement with their cake.

Vintage: Vintage-inspired wedding cakes are a great option for couples who want a touch of nostalgia on their special day. These cakes typically feature vintage features such as lace, pearls, and delicate flowers.

Custom: If you can’t find a cake that quite fits your style or theme, consider a custom wedding cake. This will allow you to work with a baker to create a cake that is truly unique and personalized to your wedding.

Minimalist: Minimalist cakes are a modern and trendy option for couples who want a simple and elegant cake. Minimalist cakes often have a single tier or a small number of tiers with a smooth and polished finish.

Textured: Textured cakes are a great choice for couples who want something a little different. These cakes feature a variety of textures, such as ruffles, quilting, or even wood grain, to add depth and interest to the cake.

Naked: Naked cakes are a popular pick for rustic or bohemian weddings. They are known for minimal frosting and showcasing the natural beauty of the cake itself.

Geometric: Geometric cakes are a modern and on-trend selection for couples who want bold and unique cakes. These cakes feature geometric shapes and patterns, making them a great choice for a contemporary or minimalist wedding.

Cake Taste

Let’s turn to the most important part of the cake, what it tastes like! When it comes to choosing the cake for your big day, the flavor can be just as important as the design and style of the cake. Do you hate vanilla but love carrot cake? Maybe you’re a buttercream guy/gal and can’t stand the thought of chocolate (weird, but ok!). No worries, whatever you’re into, we’ve got something for you below. 

Vanilla: Vanilla is a classic and timeless flavor that is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a great choice for couples who want a simple and classic cake that will appeal to a wide range of guests.

Chocolate: Chocolate is a rich and decadent flavor that is perfect for chocolate lovers. It’s a great choice for a cold-weather wedding and can be paired with a ton of fillings and frostings for a truly decadent experience.

Lemon: Lemon is a refreshing and light flavor that is perfect for a cottage-core, summer, or outdoor wedding. It pairs well with a bunch of different fillings, such as lemon curd or raspberry, and can be topped with a light and fluffy frosting for a refreshing dessert.

Red Velvet: Red velvet is a southern classic that has become increasingly popular in the last decade. It’s a moist and flavorful cake that is perfect for couples who want a cake with a little bit of character. This would be another cake fitting for a winter wedding.

Carrot: Carrot cake is known for its moist texture and warm spices. The cake is typically made with grated carrots, which add a natural sweetness and a moist texture to the cake. It is usually made with a mix of spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, and is often paired with a cream cheese frosting.

Marble: Marble cake is a great choice for couples who can’t decide on just one flavor. A combination of two flavors in one cake, marble cakes are a great option for those who want the best of both worlds.

Coffee: Coffee cakes are perfect for a morning or brunch wedding. They can be made with a fruity or chocolate-y center and a flaky outer crust. If done right, they can be the perfect decadent touch to your unique wedding.

Fruit: Fruit cakes, such as strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry, are perfect for a summer wedding. They are light and refreshing and have a subtle fruit flavor that pairs well with a variety of frostings and fillings.

Buttercream: Buttercream cakes are one of the most traditional and classic prospects. They are made with butter, sugar, and cream and are usually topped with a simple icing or frosting. Buttercream cakes are light and fluffy, making them a great option for a summer or outdoor wedding.

Ganache: Ganache cakes are a rich and decadent option, made with chocolate and cream. They are perfect for chocolate lovers and are a great option for winter or indoor weddings.

Alcohol-infused cakes: Some couples prefer to infuse their cakes with a touch of alcohol to add some extra flavor. This can be a fun way to incorporate your favorite drink into your cake. Open bar, who?

Other considerations when choosing a cake

Outside of style and taste, which, who are we kidding, are THE most important considerations, there are some other things to keep in mind. 

Budget: Wedding cakes can range in price, so it’s important to set a budget and work with your baker to find a cake that fits within your price range. Be sure to ask about any additional fees, such as delivery or setup costs.

Size: The size of the cake will depend on the number of guests you expect to attend the wedding. Be sure to provide your baker with a rough estimate of the number of guests so they can make sure to make a cake that will feed everyone.

Venue: Some venues have specific requirements for wedding cakes, so be sure to check with your venue before making a final decision on your cake. Some venues may require that the cake be made by their in-house baker or may have restrictions on the size or type of cake that can be used.

Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: It’s important to consider any dietary restrictions of your guests when choosing your cake. Many bakeries now offer gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options, so be sure to ask about these options when ordering your cake.

Delivery and Setup: Most bakers will deliver and set up the cake on the day of the wedding, but be sure to confirm this with your baker and discuss any specific delivery or setup needs. Some bakeries may charge extra for delivery and setup, so be sure to factor this into your budget.

Tasting and Consultation: Many bakeries offer cake tastings and consultations, which can be a great way to try different flavors and get a feel for the baker’s style and work. Be sure to ask about this option and schedule a tasting if it’s available.

Storage before the wedding: Your baker will let you know the best way to store your cake before the wedding. Be sure to ask about this and make sure you have a plan for keeping the cake fresh and safe until it’s time to serve it.

Storage after the wedding: If you’re one of those people who wants to freeze a piece of the cake and eat it on your 1-year anniversary, then you may want to consider a cake that would freeze well or that you could store easily. 

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the most important thing is that you choose a cake that you think tastes amazing and that fits your wedding style. Don’t be afraid to ask for a sample before making your final decision, and don’t hesitate to consult with your baker for their advice. The type of wedding cake you should order depends on the theme and style of your wedding, your guests’ dietary restrictions, and, most importantly, your personal taste. Whether you choose a classic buttercream, red velvet, rich ganache, or naked cake, make sure it’s a cake that you and your guests will enjoy and remember for years to come.

Nicole Sheehey

Nicole Sheehey is the Head of Legal Content at HelloPrenup, and an Illinois licensed attorney. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to prenuptial agreements. Nicole has Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School. She has a deep understanding of the legal and financial implications of prenuptial agreements, and enjoys writing and collaborating with other attorneys on the nuances of the law. Nicole is passionate about helping couples locate the information they need when it comes to prenuptial agreements. You can reach Nicole here: [email protected]