First of all, ladies, let’s get over the white thing. We all know that white is the long-revered symbol of the purity that a wedding represents, and that’s fine when it comes to your gown. But when it comes to your cake, it’s time to mix it up a bit. Bright colors, square shapes and off-set tiers are indicative of a refreshing trend toward wedding cakes that can really speak to your unique personal style.

Think outside the circle
Kelly Delaney, owner of Cakes for Occasions in Danvers, MA, says that brides shouldn’t be afraid to veer away from the circular tiers that have long defined the traditional wedding cake.

“Many brides today are choosing square tiers, or even a combination of both circles and squares,” notes Delaney. “Even if you are having a more traditional wedding, don’t be afraid to design your cake with a distinctive flare so that it catches the attention of your guests.”

And why not? Your cake is a large part of your reception décor, so you want it to be noticed. Remember, too, that it will be featured in some of your formal photographs. Put the same thought into your cake design as you do for every other element of your wedding, it’s well deserving!

Lay it out in lavender (or green or even brown…)
Color is all the rage when it comes to cake, whether it’s colored frosting or colored accents, brides are having more fun creating a multi-hued centerpiece that will enhance the décor of their reception room.

“Your cake needs to ‘pop,’” explains Delaney. “You need to infuse some color into the design by using fresh seasonal flowers, vibrant accents or even brightly-colored frosting. Nothing is taboo these days. Brides can be as innovative as they want, which makes it really fun for those of us making the cakes!”

The hot colors for 2008 include green, purple and even brown! Since shades of brown are popular for bridesmaids’ dresses, the fashion trend extends to other elements of the wedding, and the cake is no exception. Nothing tastes better than chocolate! Explore shades of chocolate from a light mocha to a rich chocolate brown that will tie into your color scheme. The smell of chocolate will radiate throughout the room and get your guests excited for a slice of your cake. Adding additional color for your artwork such as apple green or cranberry red will add that additional “punch” that all brides are looking for.

Have a penchant for purple? With the rainbow as our color palate, purple is the happy color that works well with all seasons. Purple has such beautiful shades from periwinkle to lollipop and it is subtle yet vibrant. Jazz up your cake with artwork that is sure to get noticed.

Your cake on any budget
Even those who are working with a modest budget for their cake can create the confection they’ve always dreamed of. If you want a gorgeous, custom-designed cake but need to scale the size down a bit to make it more affordable, don’t despair. Many couples today order a smaller wedding cake that they display and cut during the reception and sheet cakes that are kept in the kitchen to actually serve as dessert.

“Back up or ‘kitchen’ cakes as they are often referred to, allow couples more options when designing their display cake,” Delaney says. “And guests are still pleased since what they are served is equally delicious.”

So the news is all good. There are few rules when it comes to cake with the exception of making sure that you are working with a seasoned pastry chef. And remember, even if you are having a traditional wedding, a dessert with some tasteful flare will only add to the uniqueness of this milestone celebration.

Now, doesn’t that take the cake?

Questions for Kelly the Cake Expert:
Cakes for Occasions, Danvers, MA

www.cakes4occasions.com

Q: My fiancé loves carrot cake but I’ve always wanted a more traditional flavored cake? Is there a way to compromise?

A: Absolutely. Multiple flavors are always the rage. When you can’t decide between carrot and chocolate, why compromise? Serve both! This is a great way for both the bride and groom to get what they’ve always wanted. It has the added benefit of giving guests a choice and comes across as, “Wow, they thought of everything!”

Q: Both of us are musicians but didn’t know if incorporating our love for music in the design of our cake would be too campy. Is there a way to do this sort of thing tastefully?

A: Of course! We’ve designed wedding cakes that incorporate hobbies, careers, really anything you can think of. A good pastry chef can personalize a cake in a way that showcases your personality but also is in keeping with the style and overall theme of the wedding. Why not supply your baker with a verse or cord of the melody that is sentimental to you both? Using the music design adds a terrific and unique approach and brings in such wonderful creativity to your wedding cake.