10 Best Wedding Cake Ideas – Traditional, Modern & Custom Made

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While bridal trends come and go, wedding cakes will always be in style. But with so many varieties out there – traditional vs modern cakes, multiple layers vs single-tiered – it can be tough to narrow down the best option for you. Here, we’ve compiled a wide range of wedding cake ideas and answered your most-Googled questions, to help take the pressure off on your big day.

What makes a good wedding cake?

When deciding what cake to order, it’s important to consider your guest list. (As a rough guide, three tiers will serve between 50-100 guests.) Next, pick a style that suits your theme – are you having a minimalist, colourful or rustic wedding? The weather is also important: if you’re having an outdoor reception, stay far away from whipped cream, meringue or buttercream.

And remember, not all cakes have to be made of cake! If you have a savoury rather than a sweet tooth, why not opt for a non-cake alternative such as a cheese wheel?!

How far in advance do you need to order your cake?

Most bakeries suggest placing an order 3-6 months before your wedding date for custom-made cakes.

How much do cakes cost?

In Australia, the average cost of a wedding cake is $537 – but bear in mind, this price will be dependent on the flavour, style and place you purchase it from.

What decorations are popular?

While wedding cake toppers are generally the norm, they’re not necessary – especially, if your cake looks amazing without it! For those keen on the idea though, here’s a round-up of the most popular cake toppers in 2019:

Phrases (e.g. ‘love,’ ‘we do,’ and, ‘match made in heaven’)
The date of the occasion
Surname (e.g. ‘Mr & Mrs Smith)
Bride and groom figurines
The infinity symbols
Love hearts
Edible flowers

What should you do with any leftover cake after the wedding?

Generally, cake should last up to a month in the freezer before the texture and taste begin to deteriorate. Alternatively, you could hand out small boxes to your wedding guests so they can take any leftovers home with them!

10. Unconventionally shaped cakes

Whether you’re not a big fan of standard wedding cakes or simply want to try something new, modern designs – like squares and floating tiers may be for you. Another emerging trend? Individual wedding cakes (or cupcakes) that are personalised for each guest.

9. Naked cakes

Put simply, naked cakes are layer cakes that are served with little to no outer-layer of frosting (so you can see the colour of the cake coming through). In recent years, they’ve proved a firm favourite among the more-rustic, country and backyard weddings. Reason being? They’re affordable, easy to decorate and are great for those that don’t like too much icing.

8. Different flavoured cakes

Traditionally, royal wedding cakes are made of fruit cake, but more and more people are taking cues from Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and mixing up the flavour (they went with a lemon elderflower masterpiece for their big day!) Our favourites? Hummingbird (mix of banana and pineapple), salted caramel and rosewater.

7. Non-cake cakes

Not your average cake-loving couple? No stress. Alternatives can be crafted from pretty much anything these days, be it cheese, doughnuts or waffles. And for those not keen on the traditional cutting of the cake, why not go for a decadent dessert grazing table?

6. Single-tiered cakes

Nothing says chic like a single-layered cake. But just because the design is simple, doesn’t mean it has to be boring – why not experiment with flavoured-fillings and statement cake toppers? For larger weddings, keep a spare sheet cake in the kitchen to feed the rest of your guests.

5. Rustic cakes

A rustic cake design is achieved by taking cues from nature. This may mean adorning it with botanicals, such as ferns and florals or choosing an earthy colour palette. Wooden cake knives, cake stands and toppers only add to this appeal.

RELATED: Orange and lemon sponge cake

4. Coloured cakes

First, the bridesmaid’s dresses, then the cake – black wedding palettes are everywhere now (after all, it goes with everything!) Think dark fondant, inky chocolate cake and a dusting of gold trim.

3. Second cakes

Ever heard of a ‘groom’s cake?’ Traditionally a Southern custom, it’s having a major moment in here in Aus. It’s usually made of dense chocolate and represents the groom’s hobbies and tastes, while the bride’s cake is contrastingly white and light in texture. You can serve both at the reception or give slices of the second cake to guests to take home as a momento.

2. Cultured cakes

Lately, there’s been a rise of couples requesting traditional wedding cakes from cultures other than their own. For example, millefoglie (a traditional Italian pastry with Chantilly cream and strawberries) and Scandinavian Kransekake.

1. Glam cakes

Moving away from to your standard buttercream frosting, more and more brides are going glam. Imagine marbled tiers, geometric patterns and textures and subtle metallic embellishments – the ultimate in luxe and sophistication.

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Lottie Dalziel

Lottie Dalziel, is a 4AM riser and coffee-addict who lives and breathes all things food. When she isn't reading up on the latest trends in sustainability or discovering ways to upcycle almost anything, you can find her by the beach, cooking up a storm or adding to her abundant (some would say out of control) plant collection.