The wedding cake is usually displayed from the beginning of the reception, near the dance floor or where the bridal party sits, just make sure it’s in full sight of your guests so they can view and admire it. The wedding cake cutting ceremony should be done early in the evening. The couple cuts the cake together, and it is then wheeled into the kitchen and plated while guests are having their formal dinner.
Where should I place my wedding cake?
Do: Place your cake front and center! You've taken time to design a cake that reflects your personal taste and style -- you want to share that with your guests, not make them go hunt for it. Recently I've seen cakes placed near the entrance of the dining room so the guests can appreciate it as they file into the reception area.
When do you cut the cake at a wedding reception?
Though it usually happens much earlier today, cutting your cake still serves that same purpose (especially for older guests). These days, the cake is usually cut toward the end of dinner, just before dancing begins, and is the last "official" event of the evening.
Do you serve cake before or after the wedding?
Traditionally, the bride and groom serve wedding cake in between dinner and dancing, often following the couple's first dance. This is mainly because cake cutting serves as a silent clue that guests can start heading home, especially if they aren't planning to stay for the after-party.
How do you display the groom's cake at a wedding?
The groom's cake can be displayed alongside the bride's cake or displayed independently depending on the size and theme," Teufel says. "Couples can display the groom's cake on a separate table, on the bar, or even presented as a surprise to the groom during the reception (typically during toasts)."
What happens to wedding cake after wedding?
Traditionally the bride and groom feed each other the first slice, and if they wish then serve a piece to their new in-laws. The cake is then taken away to be sliced before being offered to each guest, or should any guests prefer to take theirs home presented in pretty or personalised boxes.
How do you display a wedding cake?
Where To Displaythe cake is placed on a barrel with some greenery not far from the reception.consider having a proper backdrop for your cake table to highlight the wedding theme.keep in mind that if the day is hot and the reception is outside, your cake should be brought out as late as possible to avoid icing melting.More items...•
Where do you put the groom's cake?
"Couples can display the groom's cake on a separate table, on the bar, or even presented as a surprise to the groom during the reception (typically during toasts)." If you're having a smaller wedding, then you may want to consider serving the groom's cake during the rehearsal dinner to avoid having an abundance of cake ...
What is the order of events in a wedding?
Traditional wedding ceremony – Order of eventsThe procession. The procession begins with the officiant taking his or her place at the altar. ... The officiant's opening remarks. ... Exchanging of vows. ... Exchanging of rings. ... Pronouncement of marriage. ... The kiss. ... Closing remarks. ... The recessional.
Do you put wedding cake on wedding menu?
Some couples opt to include the wedding cake and flavors for each tier on the main menu, while others choose to have a small sign or mini tented cards on their dessert table instead. There is no right option, choose what feels most natural for your celebration!
How do you present a cake attractively?
Cake decorating ideasThrow some sprinkles on top and on the sides. ... Get a cake topper like this.Border the bottom part and/or sides of the cake with nuts, pretzels, candy,Top your cake with fresh flowers. ... Sprinkle with fancy salt if its a chocolate or caramel cake.Top your cake with cookies in a fun pattern.More items...•
Does the wedding cake and grooms cake go on the same table?
The groom's cake is often served at a table separate from the wedding cake at a wedding reception or wedding breakfast, though it may be served as a dessert for a rehearsal dinner.
Who usually pays for the groom's cake?
Like the actual wedding day, there's a three-course meal served at the pre-wedding dinner. So hence, the Groom's cake and other desserts are also on the menu. In addition to the officiant's fee, and marriage license, and rings, Groom's family pays for the whole arrangements of the event.
Do you have cake at rehearsal dinner?
While you can serve anything that fits your fancy, traditionally, the groom's cake is served during the rehearsal dinner. Of course, you can serve it alongside the wedding cake on your wedding day, but every good party needs something sweet!
What are the 5 parts of the wedding ceremony in order?
Order Of Wedding CeremonyProcessional. The processional begins with bridesmaids and groomsmen walking down the aisle, typically paired up. ... Readings. A few people may be invited up to share or exchange readings at this point in the ceremony. ... Exchange of Vows. ... Pronouncement of Marriage. ... Unity Ceremony.
What is the order of a reception?
Usually, the order of wedding reception speeches goes as follows: The best man goes first, followed by the maid of honor, and parents of either spouse (traditionally, this spot is reserved for the father of the bride, but any parent/host can speak).
How should a wedding reception flow?
wedding reception timelineCOCKTAIL HOUR. Time: 1 hour. ... INVITATION TO DINNER. Time: 15 minutes. ... GRAND ENTRANCE. Time: 10 minutes. ... FIRST DANCE. Time: 5 minutes. ... WELCOME TOASTS. Time: 5 minutes. ... DINNER. Time: 45 minutes. ... WEDDING PARTY TOASTS. Time: 10 minutes. ... PARENT DANCES. Time: 10-15 minutes.More items...•
How do you display a cake?
Storing and displaying cake in a fridge We recommend both storing and displaying cake in a chilled fridge or area on any warm day to ensure your product will not spoil. This is especially crucial if the cake will not be served for more than 3 days or if it includes fresh fruit or topping, whipped cream or cream cheese.
How are wedding cakes served?
As per tradition, the bride and groom get the first bite of the wedding cake. Whether you serve the cake to each other with a fork or delightfully smash the cake into your faces is your decision. Either way, it's a sweet and sentimental moment that your guests look forward to.
Which side of cake goes down first?
First things first: it's important to know that the top of the cake is actually the bottom of the cake, i.e. the bottom that was touching the bottom of the cake pan while it was baking. The top is the bottom.
How do you store a wedding cake after a wedding?
Completely cover the cake with plastic wrap, making sure to wrap airtight. Follow by wrapping with at least 2 layers of heavy duty aluminum foil. The more protection you give the cake, the less chance of freezer taste or freezer burn. If desired, you can also place the cake in a storage container.
What to do after a wedding cake is cut?
Once you've cut the cake, the catering staff will take over and often bring it back into the kitchen to slice for the rest of your guests. Couples used to freeze the top tier of their wedding cake for the baby christening that was expected to follow soon after. Today, many still opt to save a tier or even a few slices to enjoy on their first anniversary, Valentine's Day or New Year's Eve together. In the past, couples actually sent their guests home with cake, or sent pieces to those unable to attend. While this tradition isn't as common anymore—replaced by separate favors —it's still a nice gesture (and a great way to avoid wasting cake) to offer boxed slices for guests at the end of the evening as a sweet takeaway.
What does it mean to feed each other a cake?
Once the initial piece is cut, the newlyweds usually feed each other the first slice, symbolizing their commitment to provide for one another. In some cases, this moment is replaced by a different tradition: smashing cake into each other's faces. How you feed each other the cake is up to you, but remember—you don't need to smear frosting on your new spouse simply because you think your guests expect it. You just had your hair and makeup done and you're probably both in pricey outfits—don't risk any staining if you don't want to. Either way, ask your baker or caterer to have napkins (or even a warm, damp cloth) nearby to wipe up any rogue crumbs and frosting quickly.
Why do people cut their wedding cake?
The wedding cake has long been a symbolic detail—the tradition of breaking the cake over the bride's head dates back to the Ancient Romans. Customs evolve with the times, of course, and today the ceremonial cutting of the wedding cake has remained a popular and meaningful wedding reception activity (The Knot 2016 Real Weddings Study reveals 89 percent of couples include the cake cutting during their reception). It provides both a fabulous photo opportunity and symbolizes the couple's first joint task as newlyweds. Find out all you need to know about this wedding tradition below.
Do you have to smear frosting on your new spouse?
How you feed each other the cake is up to you, but remember—you don't need to smear frosting on your new spouse simply because you think your guests expect it. You just had your hair and makeup done and you're probably both in pricey outfits—don't risk any staining if you don't want to.
What is cocktail hour?
The cocktail hour is a time for guests to enjoy a beverage or two, some hors d'oeuvres, and conversation, but it also serves as a buffer between the wedding ceremony and reception. This is particularly important if your ceremony and reception are taking place at different locations, as it allows some time for your guests to travel between venues (you may want to bump your cocktail hour time up to 90 minutes if the two venues are some distance apart). And, if the ceremony and reception are taking place in the same room, the cocktail hour allows the venue staff time to restage the space. Many newlyweds opt to take their portraits during cocktail hour, but you can also take photos before the ceremony if you're okay doing your "first look" then.
What happens after a wedding cake is cut?
After your guests have had a chance to cut loose, the wedding cake will be brought to the dance floor for the cake cutting. The newlyweds will cut the first slice of wedding cake together and feed it to each other. Dancing will then continue as the cake is served to guests.
How long should a wedding reception last?
One quick thing before we move into the timeline—how long should a wedding reception last? Including cocktail hour, a wedding reception typically lasts between four and seven hours. Again, this all depends on your venue contract, as different venues offer different wedding packages that include a certain number of hours, and there may be noise restrictions at your chosen location. Be sure to discuss the timing of your reception with your venue before creating your wedding reception order of events.
What is the most popular wedding tradition?
6. First Dance. According to a recent WeddingWire study, 90 percent of couples performed a first dance during their wedding reception, making it the most popular wedding tradition. At some weddings, couples perform their first dance immediately after entering the reception—at others, they'll wait until after dinner.
What is the parent dance at a wedding?
After the toasts, the couple and their parents hit the dance floor. Parent dances may include the father-daughter dance and/or the mother-son dance. According to the WeddingWire study, 59 percent of couples include parent dances as part of their wedding reception.
When is the wedding reception in 2021?
Plan a memorable celebration with this wedding reception order of events. By Kim Forrest April 21, 2021 58. Viceroy Washington DC. Yes, your wedding reception is supposed to be a time to let loose and celebrate with your family and friends. And while yes, you should absolutely relax and enjoy yourself, there's also a wedding reception order ...
When should you let guests eat at a reception?
Time to eat! Whether you're serving your reception meal as a plated dinner, family style, or buffet style, it's best to let guests eat shortly after entering the party. This way, they'll be able to fuel up for dancing—no one wants a group of hangry revelers !
How to save a wedding cake for anniversary?
This way your baker can provide a box to fit the top tier, and your caterer won’t accidentally serve it. The next day, wrap the cake tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap, then tuck it in the box and wrap the whole thing in more plastic wrap to fend off freezer burn.
Why cut a cake early?
If you’ve scheduled your photographer to leave around 9 p.m., cutting the cake at 7 p.m. means they won’t miss it. It also makes slicing and serving easier for your catering staff. If you cut the cake before dinner, they can work on slicing it once entrées have been served, and can pass out pieces as a plated dessert course before dancing gets underway.
How to cut a cake with two hands?
With the bride closest to the cake and the groom behind her, place both of your hands onto the knife. Cut an inch into the cake and slice down cleanly.
What to do with leftover cake?
If there is more cake leftover, offer slices for your guests to take home as an extra treat. If it hasn’t yet been sliced, wrap it up and bring it to brunch the next day as a surprise dessert for those guests who are still in town.
What to serve at a late night party?
Of course, there’s nothing stopping you from adding a little variety. For some extra sweetness, have your caterers set trays of truffles and chocolate-covered strawberries on each table as a sweet bite that’s not quite as filling as a big slice of cake. Or opt for a composed cake plate, with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of sauce to enhance that slice. You could also use additional desserts as a late-night snack, setting out milk and cookies, or arranging for an ice cream sundae bar to give guests extra energy for that late night dance party.
What is a groom's cake?
Single women would then sleep with the cake under their pillow, hoping to dream of their future groom—hence the cake’s name. These days, a groom’s cake is a chance to add something special for the groom to a celebration that can often feel like it’s all about the bride. Displayed alongside the wedding cake, a groom’s cake can take any form and be any flavor, whether a traditionally-shaped cake in rich chocolate with a liqueur filling or the funfetti of his childhood, carved into the shape of his prized grill or emblazoned with his favorite team’s logo.
Why limit yourself to one cake flavor?
Why limit yourself to one cake flavor when you can have two—or more? Bakers today are frequently crafting tiers that feature different cake and filling combinations to satisfy both halves of the couple, as well as their guests. So if you’d rather have a dark chocolate cake with peanut butter filling, while your partner is all about that salted caramel or seasonal peach preserves, have both. Talk to your baker about strategizing which tiers feature each flavor to get a more even divide, and consider a slightly larger cake—your guests will want to try both offerings.
What is a groom's cake?
A groom's cake is simply a wedding cake entirely influenced by the groom, representing his tastes and favorite hobbies. The groom's cake is typically served at either the rehearsal dinner or alongside the wedding cake at the reception. Historically, the traditional wedding cake was considered too feminine for the groom, ...
Why do women sleep with their groom's cake?
Another old tradition was for single women to take it home and sleep with the (hopefully, still boxed) groom's cake under their pillow in order to have a dream about their own future groom.
Where did the groom's cake come from?
The History and Meaning of the Groom's Cake. "The origin of the groom's cake is from Britain and was originally offered as a second flavor option to be served to guests. It was typically a richer flavor of cake compared to the bride's cake and often includes alcohol or chocolate," says cake artist Rachael Teufel.
Does the groom bring maple syrup to the wedding?
The groom brings a maple syrup for her and her parents every time he visits Colorado," Teufel says. "I would say there is no wrong answer when choosing a groom's cake, it's all about adding a fun moment to the wedding day through cake, and it makes for a wonderful conversation piece during the reception.".
Can you have a wedding cake with a groom?
Absolutely not. Like almost every other wedding tradition, it's entirely optional. But if you and your family are having a tug-of-war about wedding cakes (chocolate versus vanilla, carrot versus custard), the groom's cake can be a simple way to satisfy nontraditional tastes without upsetting the wedding cake cart.
Is the groom's cake a wedding favor?
Teufel says. Because the groom's cake is considered more a wedding favor than the main dessert, it's up to the couple how they want to serve it. When it comes to wedding cake etiquette, the groom's cake tends to be sliced after ...
Who is Rachael Teufel?
Rachael Teufel is the owner of Intricate Icings Cake Design. She is a luxury wedding cake artist and instructor based in Denver, Colorado. Today, the groom's cake can range from a chocolate replica of a sports arena to an edible homage to Star Wars.
What is the order of events for a wedding reception?
Following is the order of events for a wedding reception. (Recommended article: “ What is the Order of Events at a Wedding? “)
What is cocktail hour?
As the name suggests, the cocktail hour is the time during which the guests enjoy a glass of cocktail and socialize with each other. A cocktail hour is usually scheduled for an hour but you could stretch it to 90 minutes if the wedding ceremony and the reception are happening at two different venues. The newlyweds get the time to click their portraits during the cocktail hour. (Recommended article: “ What is Cocktail Hour During a Wedding? “)
What is the receiving line at a wedding reception?
One of the oldest ceremonies associated with a wedding reception, receiving line refers to the line the guests form at the onset of the reception to greet the bride and the groom. They wish the newly-married couple on the beginning of this new journey together and bless them.
What is the reception line?
This is an event during which the guests form a queue to greet the bride and the groom. Each of the guests gets the opportunity to greet the newly-married couple.
What is a wedding reception?
After going through a day filled with major ceremonies and events, the wedding reception is that event during which the bride and the groom get some time to relax and socialize with all the guests, including their family, relatives and friends. A wedding reception is quite elaborate but not exhausting like some of the other ceremonies or events of the day. If you are about to attend a wedding ceremony, you might find asking yourself what is the order of events for a wedding reception?
What is the purpose of a welcome speech?
The Welcome Speech serves as a good chance for the bride and the groom and their parents to thank the guests for registering their presence on this special day. If the family wishes to pray before the reception meal, they could do that during this time.
How long should a toast be?
There is an order to the speeches as well. Traditionally, the best man is expected to deliver the first speech. After him, the maid of honor gets the opportunity to say a few words. After her, the father of the bride speaks. Post this, the speeches could follow in any order. The duration of each speech shouldn’t be more than 2-3 minutes. Towards the end, the bride and the groom could deliver a ‘thank you’ speech to the guests.