Alternative
Wedding Cakes
BY GABRIELLE TIEMAN-LEE
Modern weddings have evolved into a beautiful representation of the couple being celebrated. From unique wedding gowns to custom calligraphy place cards, the wedding day has become an event uniquely yours. But when it comes time to choose dessert, many couples often forgo personality in favour of tradition. Just like puffy lace sleeves and Jordan almonds, the white sponge, confection iced cake is quickly becoming a trend of the past. After all, you’ve customized every other aspect of your day - why not the best part of the meal? The point being: wedding cakes no longer have to be, well, cakes! Choose to serve up a selection of distinctive treats that reflect your taste and style, or at the very least, a dessert you’ll actually look forward to eating at the end of the night!
Doughnut walls
Is there anything sweeter than a doughnut? Chocolate or sprinkled, glazed or dipped, the doughnut can cater to every sweet tooth. This plate free, grab and go dessert requires no break in the party for consumption; stack them in a tower, pile them on cake tiers or even build a very Pinterestworthy doughnut wall – a concept originally created by famed New York caterer Peter Callahan. “We started taking large pre-orders this year … most of the large preorders we have received thus far have been for weddings as an alternative for the cake or as a late night snack,” said Tayler Book, co-owner of Beechwood Doughnuts in St. Catharines. Beechwood can cater to most large orders, with a minimum of two-week’s notice given and prepayment for orders of six dozen and more.
Cupcakes and cake pops Sweet, savoury and always a fan favourite, cupcakes and cake pops are an easy-to-serve option which packs as much flavour as its layered big brother. “We do lots of weddings,” said Trudy Bowslaugh, owner of The Frosted Cupcake in St. Catharines. “I’d say it’s near half of our business. Cupcakes have definitely become a popular alternative to cake. They are much easier to serve, no cutting fees, and so much cheaper than getting a tiered cake that no one eats! And who doesn’t love a cupcake.” Lu Lu Lemon, Bananas Foster, Cocoa Chanel, After Eight – these tiny little cakes piped high with frosting are packed full of flavour and provide endless options for the customizing couple.
