How to Display Your Wedding Cake: A Complete Guide for Couples
How to Display Your Wedding Cake: A Complete Guide for Couples
When it comes to planning your wedding, there are so many details to consider—flowers, music, food, and of course, the wedding cake. But one thing that often gets overlooked is the cake's presentation. Many couples order their wedding cake without giving much thought to how it will be displayed. The cake itself is often the centerpiece of the reception, but too many times it ends up on a basic, outdated cake stand that doesn't do it justice.
In this guide, I'll help you think outside the cake box and explore all the possibilities for setting up your wedding cake in a way that enhances its beauty and complements your overall theme.
1. Think Beyond the Cake Stand
A traditional silver cake stand might be fine, but it can feel out of place or outdated, especially if it doesn't match the style of your wedding cake. Have you ever seen a stunning, modern wedding cake plopped down on a cheap, shiny silver stand that doesn't reflect the elegance of the cake itself? It's a shame, right?
That’s where custom setups can come in! At CAKED, I love working with couples to create personalised cake displays that elevate the whole presentation. Whether it’s a rustic wooden stand, a modern geometric base, or a vintage cake pedestal that complements your theme, the cake stand is more than just a piece to hold the cake. It’s a key element in your cake's overall look.
Pro Tip: You can either rent unique cake stands off CAKED for the day , or if you already have a vision, I’m happy to go out and find the perfect props for you. Customising your cake display adds an extra touch of thoughtfulness to your wedding decor.
2. Consider the Cake Table Itself
Once you have a cake stand in mind, don't forget about the table it will sit on. A plain table with a white cloth can work, but this is your chance to really get creative! The table setup can reflect your wedding style—whether that’s bohemian, vintage, rustic, or modern. You could:
- Dress up the table: Use textured linens, such as lace or cheesecloth or go for a chic pearl mesh cloth
- Add decorative elements: Candles, flowers, greenery, or even fairy lights can bring a magical vibe to your cake display.
- Incorporate your theme: If your cake follows a monochrome theme, it's best to keep the display in the same colour palette for a cohesive look. Consider pairing your cake with sleek black candle holders, white candles, and a black cake stand to create a striking contrast and enhance the sharp, modern aesthetic.
The table is just as important as the cake itself—it should serve as a beautiful stage for the sweet creation you've chosen.
3. Backdrop Matters
A lot of wedding venues feature floral walls or other backdrops for cake displays. But here's the thing: the backdrop you choose can either highlight or overshadow your cake. For example, if you’ve selected a floral wedding cake, a floral wall behind it might result in a flower overload that makes everything look a little too busy and chaotic.
Instead, opt for a backdrop that complements your cake without stealing the spotlight. Here are some ideas to consider:
- A neutral-coloured wall to keep the focus on the cake and its setting.
- A Stone wall - I’m a big fan of using a natural old stone wall as a backdrop—it never fails to complement a cake beautifully!
- A dramatic arch with greenery or simple lighting that creates a romantic, elegant ambiance.
If you’re already having a floral installation or backdrop at your venue, it might be worth placing your cake on a separate table, away from the flowers, to avoid that cluttered look. You want the cake to stand out, not get lost in the noise of competing decorations. Always let your cake decorator know if you've any backdrops chosen!
4. Props and Personal Touches
This is where you can really have fun with your wedding cake setup! The right props can add personality and meaning to your display. Perhaps you want to incorporate some family heirlooms, such as a vintage cake knife or a beautiful cake topper that has been passed down through generations. Or maybe you’ve got a quirky sense of style and want to feature a custom cake stand with a theme that reflects your personality.
The possibilities are endless:
- Personalized signs: A small sign with your names or wedding date can add a personal touch.
- Candles: Soft, flickering candles around the cake can create a warm and romantic atmosphere.
- Flowers: Fresh flowers around the base of the cake, or as part of a cascading decoration, can enhance its overall design. Just be sure the flowers complement—not compete with—the cake itself.
- Themed decor: If your wedding has a theme (vintage, fairytale, BOHO, etc.), incorporating elements of that theme around the cake display can make it feel more cohesive.
Don’t hesitate to get creative. The more personal and unique your cake display is, the more it will reflect you as a couple!
5. Lighting is Key
It’s not all about props and backdrops—lighting plays a huge role in how your wedding cake is perceived. The right lighting can transform the look of the cake and the table it sits on, giving it an ethereal, almost magical glow.
Consider:
When choosing the location for your cake table, it's important to think about the lighting. I've often seen venues place cake tables in front of large floor-to-ceiling windows, which might seem like a good idea at first. However, this puts the light behind the cake, making both the cake and you look dull in photos.
Another common issue is when cake tables are positioned in front of mirrors. I’m not sure why this is a popular choice, but it can lead to awkward photos. When guests take pictures of the cake or of you with the cake, your guest often end up reflected in the mirror in the photographs.
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6. Consult with Your Cake Designer
At CAKED, I love when couples come in with ideas for how they want their cake displayed—it shows they’re thinking about the bigger picture! But sometimes, it’s helpful to consult with your cake designer or wedding planner for advice. They can offer suggestions on how to best display your cake based on its design, size, and the overall aesthetic of your wedding.
I’m always happy to help couples think through all the options and create a display that will leave a lasting impression on their guests.
Final Thoughts
The wedding cake is one of the most anticipated elements of the big day, and it deserves more than just being placed on a generic stand in a corner. By thinking creatively about your cake’s display—from the stand and table setup to the backdrop and props—you can create a show-stopping centrepiece that enhances your wedding’s overall atmosphere.
Remember: it’s all about personalisation. The wedding cake setup should be an extension of your style as a couple and should complement the mood and theme of your celebration. Don't be afraid to go beyond the basics and create something truly memorable. If you’re not sure where to start, I’m here to help bring your vision to life!
At CAKED, I specialise in creating beautiful wedding cakes and stunning setups that reflect your unique style. Let’s work together to make your cake display as unforgettable as the rest of your day!
PHOTO CREDIT : @ONLYLOVE.PHOTO
