Cake Toppers – The Latest & Greatest Trends

I got all worked up yesterday looking at pictures of awful wedding cakes. In addition to the awful cakes, I ran across some very disturbing cake toppers. By the end of the day I realized the little plastic bride and groom were not the only options available anymore and thought it would  be fun to delve into this a little further because really, once I get on a subject,  it’s hard for me to re-focus until it has run it’s course.  What I found really lifted my spirits. In addition to all other forms of wedding decor, the wedding cake topper has become one of the most interesting ways a  couple can express their creativity at their wedding.

Cake toppers are traditionally a miniature model of a bride and groom sitting on top of a wedding cake. This trend began around the 1920’s and has been a staple ever since. Cake toppers could arguably be called one of the main attractions at weddings since,  after a bride´s dress, the wedding cake often takes center stage. How do you choose the right one for you?

Two weeks ago we were awed by William & Kate’s massive 500+ lb cake at the Royal Wedding. Although I can’t seem to find one piece of information about the actual cake topper, it appears to be a simple wreath of sorts, made of smaller flowers, the same kind as in the bridal bouquet. After doing a little more research it seems it is not a truly unique as I thought. It appears that members of the royal family always have a flower themed cake topper. Of course, Princess Diana had a much larger one, almost an entire floral arrangement  but, that was the 80’s when bigger was better. …and it was a state affair, after all.

In Modern American Wedding culture it is perfectly acceptable for the bride and groom to accent the top of their cake in any form they feel suits their personality as a couple. But, so we really need cake toppers depciting arguments, resistance or intimate moments? Although it’s not my cup of tea,  more power to you for wanting everyone to have a  good laugh at your expense (they will).

The latest trend in cake toppers is monogramed spikes. They are called spikes because they have large prongs that dig deep into the cake so they don’t fall over due to the weight, like big birthday candles sometimes do. Not to worry, you can get very creative with these as well. If monograms aren’t your choice, there are also some beautifully shaped hearts, snowflakes or crowns. Not sure I understand the crown thing but  its your day, right?

There are also some very modern takes on the traditional bride and groom cake topper. For example,  the bride and groom Mii. If you aren’t familiar with video games, a Mii is an avatar of the Wii game systems that you style to have your appearance. Very clever and whimsical.  Another great cake topper for a fun-loving couple would be one constructed of Legos. In reality there are hundreds of styles to choose from. Bride and Groom sports fans, skeleton bride and groom, Star Wars, Zombies, Surfers, bobble-head, you name it. Decide if the top of your cake is the place you want to be this creative and go with it.

Of course you can never go wrong with the traditional bride and groom whether it’s Lladro, ceramic or even plastic. They are avaible in a variety of hair, gown and facial choices.

My only advice would be to get something you can save and cherish and will serve as a happy  reminder of the day. I would also add that you should consult with your baker to make sure it is something they are comfortable working with and will be easily integrated into the design.

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago