let them eat cake…

Let them eat cake…or other sweet treats you love!

You’ve heard the old quote, “let them eat cake” by the infamous Marie Antoinette. It’s a rule to live by if you ask me, but I want to let you in on a little secret: you don’t actually have to serve cake at your wedding. Yes, I said it. I have seen people get so creative over the many years I have worked in the wedding industry - if cake is not your thing, that is more than ok. The truth is, I find often that cake gets wasted because it isn’t a fan favorite amongst your guests. Just like anything else having to do with your wedding, the choice of what you serve for dessert should feel like YOU. 

Here are 7 alternatives to cake for you to consider:

photo by @aileenelizabethphoto

Cannoli Station

For anyone that doesn’t know, a Cannoli is a classic Italian dessert consisting of a flaky yet crispy shell stuffed with a rich and creamy ricotta filling. To top it off, the open ends are dipped in mini chocolate chips and finally, sprinkled with powdered sugar. They are rich and decadent and people usually love them. A really creative take on this can include someone stuffing the shells fresh for your guests and offering different toppings that the your shell can be dipped into - crushed pistachios, toffy, melted chocolate and sprinkles are festive options that people adore just to name a few. You can also forgo the live stuffing and just have a mix of flavor combinations ready for people to take and try. No matter what you choose, this dessert option is one that will make a lasting impression. 

photo by @suzuranphotography

Ice Cream

I scream, you scream - you know the drill. Ice cream is a crowd pleaser and there are so many fun ways to make this an interactive moment for your guests to enjoy. Think big bowls of sprinkles, caramel + hot fudge sauces, and cherries on top to complete the experience! 

S’Mores

The name says it all - when you offer people a warm fire and some marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers they seem to have no problem putting in a little work to get the end result. Add some fun topping options in giant glass jars like reese cups, white chocolate bars, and caramel candies and let people go to town. I assure you they will not be disappointed. 

photo by @ruthie.isaacson

photo by @ginamarieprestiphoto_

Mini Desserts 

I’m not exactly sure what it is about things being miniature that makes people love them more, but I swear people lose their minds over a cheesecake that fits in the palm of their hand. The real benefit of mini desserts in my opinion is that you can offer a lot more variety. Mix in cheesecake, muffins, key lime pie, macarons and anything else you think your crew might enjoy. I have even seen people combine some homemade cookies with other desserts provided by a favorite local bakery or your caterer. The options here are truly endless and bonus points if you provide to-go containers so people can take a little something sweet home with them. 

Donuts 

It feels like donuts have been having a moment at weddings for the last several years, but even with that being said, people never seem to tire of them. From donut walls to towers to extravagant displays - you can satisfy a lot of people’s tastes going this route. And they add a lot of fun colors and textures to your special day. 

Cinnamon Rolls

What is better than a gooey, still warm in the middle cinnamon roll topped with that sweet icing we all love so much? I truly think this is one of the most unique and well loved wedding treats I have ever seen. Display them on different layers of brown paper and cutting boards and let the icing run wild for an added dramatic effect your guests will love digging into. Plus, think of the leftovers you will have for eating in bed the next morning. 

Pie

Pies are a unique way to express your taste and who doesn’t love a good crust? You can include everything from classic fruit like apple (maybe with a scoop of vanilla) or blueberry to more adventurous flavors like bourbon-peach, custard, or good old fashioned pumpkin in the fall. This menu could really highlight the season of your wedding and offer people a treat they don’t get to have very often. 

I hope this will inspire you to think creatively about dessert and give you the permission you need to sweetly end your special day with whatever you love most! 

photo by @aileenelizabethphoto