^{Image Courtesy of Marielle Hayes Photography}

How to Choose the Perfect One for Your LDS Reception

A wedding cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a symbol of celebration, tradition, and the joy of starting your new life together. And whether your reception is simple or spectacular, your cake will be one of the first things guests see and remember.

But let’s be honest—trying to explain your dream wedding cake to a decorator can feel overwhelming if you don’t know the right terms. So let’s walk through the basics of LDS wedding cake styles and options—together.

Fondant or Buttercream: What's Under the Frosting?

Wondering how professional wedding cakes look so smooth and flawless? The secret is in the base layer—usually fondant or rolled buttercream. These smooth icings are rolled out like dough, then draped over the cake to create a clean, polished canvas.

Both come in a wide variety of colors and thicknesses, and either can be used to bring your dream cake to life.

The Art of Icing Decoration

Once your cake has that picture-perfect base, it’s time for details. “Piping” refers to icing that's squeezed through a decorating bag to form patterns or shapes on your cake.

Some piping styles are sweet and simple—like dots, shells, and zigzags—while others (like basket-weave or lacey “cornelli” patterns) are more ornate. You can even ask for piped-on flowers or icing ribbons that look like they’re cascading down your cake tiers. Just know that the more intricate the work, the more time—and budget—it will take.

Love the Look of Texture?

Smooth cakes are classic, but textured wedding cakes can be just as beautiful. Instead of fondant, your decorator might use a spatula or spoon to swirl, spike, or sculpt your frosting before it sets. This approach adds personality and dimension—and can be a charming choice for rustic, garden, or vintage-themed receptions.

Borders Give Your Cake That "Finished" Feel

Nearly every wedding cake includes a border around the base of each tier. The most timeless option? Icing pearls—those lovely little round dollops that look like edible beads.

But if you want a bit of shine or color, ribbon borders are a wonderful alternative. Your baker can wrap satin, organza, or lace ribbon around each tier and secure it with a tiny pin or a decorative bow.

Should You Add Flowers or Fruit?

Fresh or silk flowers are a classic addition to LDS wedding cakes. Talk to your florist about blooms that coordinate with your bouquet or colors. You can trail flowers diagonally down the cake, nestle them between stacked layers, or top each tier with blossoms.

Fresh fruit—especially strawberries, cherries, or grapes—can add a natural, delicious touch. A chocolate cake with glistening berries? Heavenly.

There’s So Much More to Wedding Cake Planning…

From flavors and fillings to tier heights and cake toppers, this is just the beginning! If you'd love a little help making decisions—you’ll love the guidebook I’ve put together just for LDS brides.

Grab the Wedding Cake Design Guide Here

It’s full of sweet ideas and gorgeous images to help make this part of planning simple and fun.