Out with the old and in with the new! Gone are the days of cutting the cake and offering table service for each guest to get a piece. While many couples now opt not to do a ceremonial “cutting of the cake” at all, there is still room for celebration, whimsy, and fanciness in the dessert set-up/options. 

You still want your guests to have dessert but you don’t need to make it on a timeline. By the time you get to cutting the cake and actually serving it, as Bronson Van Wyck (of Van Wyck & Van Wyck) jests, “your guests are likely three sheets to the wind and–hopefully–on the dancefloor!” Why put a timeline on your guests' desire or consumption of dessert when there are now far better options? Starting with: dessert stations.

So many couples are choosing one or more of the various and newly popular dessert station options. These are even becoming popular at other events like birthday parties and galas. You could offer a candy cart, including old-fashioned delicacies, if that fits the theme; an ice cream bar, or add a dash of whimsy with some snow cones; for something a bit more carnival-y, you could go for a cotton candy or funnel cake stand; an extremely popular choice is the customizable espresso/coffee bar option (often paired with ice cream); and of course, the chocolate fountain continues on as a mainstay of reception dessert options, with every food you could imagine to be dipped, dunked, and drenched--from fruit to tiny pastries. 

The latest trend cropping up is actually, none of the above. In fact, many couples are choosing a “to-go” option with their wedding cake or dessert table(s). Why force down that piece of cake so as to not let it go to waste, on your already full stomach from dinner (and imbibing)? Let me assure you… nobody feels good on 3 cocktails and 3 courses as they hit the dance floor. Instead, offer the doggy bag. While the term may not sound very glamorous, I promise you can class it up! Instead of staff plating and serving the cake slices, have them place them into customized to-go boxes. Get people out dancing ASAP and keep that dance floor packed. Then, be the hero that satisfies your guests’ midnight sweet tooth to boot! #notallheroeswearcapes

Learn everything you need to know about modern event design and the latest trends and styles. Take a peek at our Program Guide to see what we have to offer and what peaks your interest! Or, get started with IWED for FREE today!