Wedding cakes have their roots in Ancient Rome, when marriage ceremonies ended with a scone-like wheat or barley cake broken over the bride's head for luck and fertility. The modern wedding cake as we know it now would originate at the 1882 wedding of Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany; his wedding cake was the first to actually be completely edible.

But just because it’s a long-standing tradition, does that mean you have to have a wedding cake? No, of course not! More and more couples these days have chosen to go off the beaten path and get a little more creative when it comes to their choice for sugaring up their guests.

Here are 10 wedding cake alternatives from a wedding planner perspective, that we find to be just as sweet!

1. Donuts

Donuts are so yummy! There are so many different flavors, and different way to display them. Donut walls have been a big trend the last few years, but you could also tier them up like a cake as well. We have even had a client hire a mini-donut food truck, that comes complete with toppings!

2. Ice Cream or Gelato

Another delicious option. Perfect for a warm summer wedding. So many fun flavors and colors to choose from. There are also some companies that have unique service opportunities, such as from a bicycle or mini-truck!

3. Macarons

Ooh la la, how we love macarons! These tiny cookies are not just for the French. The flavors, the color, the texture! They make a wonderful mini dessert as well a perfect favor for on the go.

4. Pie

Whether it’s a whole pie to slice up and share or a mini-pie for one, this is always a surprisingly big cake alternative hit. Serve it alongside a scoop of icecream and you are sure to please the crowd!

5. Cookies

Come and get me some of that yum yum chocolate chip, honey dipped…whether it’s a cookie bar with tons of options, or served individually with a milk shooter or a fancily monogrammed sugar cookie, these tasty little morsels are another big hit.

6. Churros

Looking for something a little more unique? Churros are a great option, especially if you may be having a Mexican themed dinner, or even just something to surprise your guests. They can be served up so many ways; with toppings in fun containers, or in cute bags, the options are endless.

7. Bubble Waffles

Continuing on with some of the more unique dessert options…Bubble Waffles are another great choice - this yummy twist on a breakfast original allows guests the opportunity to have fun with choosing toppings. The topping options are endless; s’mores topped, ice cream and fruit topped, even savory options are sure to be a hit.

8. Snow Cones or Popsicles

Another great option if you are having a summer wedding, especially if it is outdoors! Snow Cones & Popsicles are often so colorful - and we of course all know the fun of choosing your flavors on a snow cone!

9. S’mores

You’re killin me Smalls! S’mores bars are often a great option for an outdoor event, the guests can even make their own over an open fire (caution advised for heavily boozed events on this one), or a safer option is the little catering heaters. This one is a classic, but can be done with all sorts of twists - different chocolates, peanut butter, etc.

10. Assorted mini goods & pastries buffet

If you love ALL the desserts and just can’t make up your mind - an assorted buffet of delicious desserty goods is a great option. This will also lend something to everyone, and please many palates.

Cheers,

Ashley

Principal Wedding Planner and Co-Owner of It’s Your Day Events

Who is It’s Your Day Events?

We are a Seattle, Bellingham and Bremerton, WA based wedding planning, wedding coordination and design agency. What we do is at times difficult to picture because the services we offer are intangible. When you are scrolling through beautiful photos, with stunning flowers, and amazing cohesive design; the magic behind that is the planning, design, and coordination. This is what we do.

We professionally organize, plan, and coordinate the details.

We dot the i's and cross the t's.

We triple check it all once more. 

Then, when the day comes, we watch the wonderment and happiness on your face as your wedding day unfolds, just as you dreamed it would.

Contact us for any wedding planning, wedding coordination or design needs!