The Sweet Tradition of Wedding Cakes: A Slice of History and Photography
When we think of weddings, certain images instantly come to mind—flower bouquets, the exchanging of rings, and of course, the wedding cake. But have you ever wondered why this sweet tradition is such a big deal? As a wedding photographer, I've seen how a well-crafted cake can become a focal point of the celebration, adding not just sweetness but also a dash of joy and personality to the event.
A Slice of History: How Wedding Cakes Became a Tradition
The tradition of wedding cakes dates back to ancient Rome, where a simple cake of barley or wheat was broken over the bride's head to bring good fortune. Fast forward to medieval England, and wedding cakes were stacked as high as possible for the bride and groom to kiss over the top—if they could manage it without knocking the whole thing over, it was a sign of a prosperous life together. Who knew?! If only my couples did that today I'd certainly get some very fun photos!
The tiered wedding cake as we know it today began in the 19th century, with Queen Victoria's wedding cake setting the trend. It was all about grandeur, with elaborate designs symbolising wealth and social status.
The tradition of cutting the cake together symbolises the couple's first joint task as newlyweds. It’s a moment filled with symbolism, love, and, yes, a bit of fun—something that’s wonderful to capture in photos. The cake-cutting ceremony is more than just a slice; it’s a sweet memory in the making.
Why a Great Wedding Cake Matters
The wedding cake isn't just a dessert; it's a centrepiece, a conversation starter, and often, a work of art. It reflects the couple's style, from classic elegance to quirky fun. A great cake can elevate the entire reception, bringing guests together to admire its beauty before they indulge in its flavours.
For me as a photographer, the cake-cutting is one of those moments that’s full of energy. The couple, surrounded by friends and family, all eyes on them—it's a fantastic opportunity for candid shots. Everyone's laughing, sometimes feeding each other cake, and it's one of those moments where you see the real joy of the day. A beautifully crafted cake only enhances that moment, making the photos even more stunning.
Capturing the Cake's Magic
Over the years, I've come to appreciate the artistry that goes into making a wedding cake. The intricate details, the thought behind the flavours, and the sheer effort that goes into creating something that looks as good as it tastes. From my perspective, a wedding cake isn't just about the cutting; it’s about the anticipation, the reactions of the guests, and the joy it brings to the couple.
I've seen cakes that are almost too beautiful to cut, and that’s the magic of a well-made wedding cake—it becomes a centrepiece of the day. The cake-cutting provides a natural pause in the reception, where the couple can share a quiet (or sometimes playful) moment together, which is always a pleasure to capture.
Where to Find the Perfect Wedding Cake
If you’re on the hunt for a wedding cake that’s as delightful as your day, let me recommend Boudi Bakes. Abdala, the talent behind Boudi Bakes, brings a unique flair to his creations. His cakes are not only visually stunning but also a true delight to the taste buds. I know... I've tasted them! What I love about Abdala's work is how he combines fun designs with high quality, all at a reasonable price. It’s no surprise that many of my clients have been thrilled with his cakes. You can see some of his work in the three photos below. All those flowers are piped icing, make with love by him personally. I think they are all pretty remarkable.
If you're looking for a cake that’s going to be a hit at your wedding, I’d say Abdala is a great place to start. You can check out his work on Instagram at @beirutibakerboy. Say hello from me!
YOUR LONDON BASED DOCUMENTARY WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
If you're looking for more than just posed photographs, if you want your wedding day to be documented authentically, capturing real emotions and heartfelt connections – then you've found your documentary wedding photographer. Get in touch and let's create memories together. Send your enquiry and you'll be able to download a free copy of my very useful Wedding Guide.
