Food, drink & cake: Wedding cake

Tier sizes depend on servings; a small display cake plus a kitchen sheet cake saves money.

The key points

Quick answers

Buttercream or fondant for a wedding cake?

Buttercream usually tastes better; fondant gives a smooth finish and copes better with heat. Some bakers use buttercream with fondant details.

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What do you do with the top tier of the wedding cake?

A tradition is to freeze it and eat it on your first anniversary. Many couples now order a fresh small cake instead.

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Why do couples cut the wedding cake together?

It is often described as the couple’s first shared task as a married pair, and a way to thank guests by sharing food.

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When should the wedding cake be cut?

Usually after dinner, about one and a half to two hours into the reception, before older guests start leaving.

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