December 26th

Photo credit: 

Sascha Reinking Photography

Tip of the Day: Recently engaged? Embrace the moment before announcing it to the entire world via social media or researching wedding items. "So many couples rush into planning mode right away without taking the time to bask in the just-engaged glow. Regardless of whether you are planning a 12-week or a 12-month engagement, you have time, and you only get to experience this once. So breathe," says Jess Levin from Carats and Cake.

Plus, check out 6 Things to Do First After Getting Engaged.

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50 Contemporary Wedding Cakes

Long gone are the days of the traditional white wedding cake. Today, more and more brides and grooms are opting for a cake that reflects both their personalities and the wedding’s theme or sizing down on the cake size to incorporate a more diverse sweets table. The result? A dessert that is stunning, unique, and modern. Think personal patterns, metallic accents, artsy adornments, marble frosting. We could rave on about these beautiful touches, but why don’t you take a look yourself?

Enter Slideshow
  • Artsy and Industrial

    Artsy and Industrial

    Industrial meets cozy in rugged strokes of chocolate brown and metallic gold.

    Photo Credit: Rustic White Photography / Cake by Sugar and Slate

     

  • Modern Mix

    Modern Mix

    With a different personality in every layer, this three-tiered cake is a work of art. Crystals, quartz, and geodes combine with copper and marbled fondant for an edgy, yet feminine look.

    Photo Credit: Kristina Adams / Cake by Rooney Girl Bakeshop

     

  • Black One Tier

    Black One Tier

    Moody and dark, this single mini cake is modernly romantic with a black body and hand-painted roses.

    Photo Credit: Lindsay Nickel Photography / Cake by Sugar by Tracy

     

  • Cracked Surface

    Cracked Surface

    Clean and simple, this minimalistic cake revels in elegant beauty. Intentional gilded cracks show that imperfections can be beautiful, and fondant gem clusters create a bohemian chic vibe.

    Photo Credit: Siobhan H Photography / Cake by Andi Freeman Cakes

     

  • Primary Hues

    Primary Hues

    Watercolor blots in primary hues give this wedding cake a fun and playful vibe.

    Photo Credit: Sylvie Gil Photography / Cake by The Whole Cake

     

  • Slick Marble

    Slick Marble

    Thick marble-inspired swirls mimic the inside of a geode and create a sleek finish. A splash of gold adds a bit of a glam.

    Photo Credit: Emily Wren Photography / Cake by Jeffrey Miller Catering

  • Autumn Decadence

    Autumn Decadence

    Dripping in deep hues, this slender fall-inspired cake is wickedly good. A rich plum color, honeycomb top tier, and fondant floral adornments play up various textures.

    Photo Credit: Dina Chmut / Cake by Artisan Cake Company

  • Brushstrokes

    Brushstrokes

    This single cake may be mini in size, but it sure is large in color, with wisps of teal and orchid and a splattering of metallic gold.

    Photo Credit: Cavin Elizabeth Photography / Cake by Sweet as Bliss

  • Jewel Tone Geode

    Jewel Tone Geode

    Gems and geodes make this white tiered cake pop with vibrant jewel tones.

    Photo Credit: Alex Lasota Photography / Cake by Frost Me Sweet 

  • Airbrushed

    Airbrushed

    This airbrushed cake imitates the husky tones of the beach’s sand and green sea, complemented by crystal toppings and encrusted salt around the edges.

    Photo Credit: Laura Murray Photography / Cake by Vanilla Bake Shop

     

  • Modern Rustic

    Modern Rustic

    Rustic meets modern in this two-tiered cake with a slightly naked top layer and marble bottom later. The result is romantically whimsy.

    Photo Credit: Jeff Brummett Visuals / Cake by Loft 22 Cakes

  • Agate Beauty

    Agate Beauty

    This agate cake in stunning teal and copper is nothing short of a masterpiece.

    Photo Credit: Marisa Belle Photography / Cake by 21 Cakes

  • Watercolor Swatches

    Watercolor Swatches

    Thick, rough amethyst and gold watercolor swatches transform this cake into an oil painting.

    Photo Credit: Connie Whitlock / Cake by Megan Joy Cakes

  • Greenery

    Greenery

    This may be a classic white cake, but a draping of olive garlands gives it a whole new look with a bit of Grecian inspiration.

    Photo Credit: Rachel Smith Photography / Cake by Winnie’s Bakery

  • Watercolors

    Watercolors

    Watercolor blue mimics the oceans waves, with heavy drips of metallic gold icing for a bit of edge.

    Photo Credit: La Vie Douce Design

  • Preppy Stripes

    Preppy Stripes

    Solid gold stripes bring a preppy and timeless twist to a white wedding cake. A single bloom brings a touch of romance.

    Photo Credit: Sarah Beth Photography / Cake by Melissa’s Fine Pastries

  • Ombré

    Ombré

    From soft brick to red to neon orange, this ombré cake is a colorful delight.

    Photo Credit: Blest Studios

  • Modern Luxury

    Modern Luxury

    A black canvas and jagged gold steaks make this sumptuous cake luxe and chic.

    Photo Credit: Anna Delores Photography / Cake by MJB Cakes

  • Shades of Pink

    Shades of Pink

    Watercolor drips in various shades of pink, red, and peach make this cylindrical cake hot, hot, hot, ideal for a bright summer wedding.

    Photo Credit: Ivy Road Photography / Cake by The Cake That Ate Paris

  • Bohemian Vibes

    Bohemian Vibes

    A pastel marble bottom tier, metallic gold paint splatters, and feather accents lend this cake an understated Bohemian flair.

    Photo Credit: Suegraphy / Cake by Sugarlips Cakes

  • Arabian Nights

    Arabian Nights

    Handmade sugar gems in vibrant hues, detailed motifs, and hand-painted shades of blue and gold evoke a rich, enchanting, and exotic feel.

    Photo Credit: Calvina Photography / Cake by Paper Heart Patisserie

  • Layers

    Layers

    Ombre plum ruffle layers lend this cake a bit of whimsical charm, coupled with a wreath of greenery for an organic touch.

    Photo Credit: Marissa Lambert Photography / Cake by The Royal Cakery

  • Crystals and Beads

    Crystals and Beads

    A thick layer of gold fondant beads and crystals graces the top tier for a vintage 1920s look in a modern style — a perfectly subtle juxtaposition.

    Photo Credit: Krista Esterling / Cake by The Copper Hen

  • Scales

    Scales

    Scales in a mix of blue, green, and purple hues take inspiration from mermaids at sea.

    Photo Credit: Warm Photo / Cake by Tortik Annushka

  • Winter Romance

    Winter Romance

    Icy blue, whispers of metallic silver, and delicate lace captures the essence of a Parisian winter.

    Photo Credit: Catherine O’Hara / Cake by Berties CupCakery

  • Impressionism Touches

    Impressionism Touches

    Blurred watercolor brushstrokes steal the show in this artistic cake, reminiscent of Impressionism. The couple’s monogram hand-painted in the middle adds a personal touch.

    Photo Credit: Ludovica Lanzafami and Valerio Elia / Cake by Dolce Mente con Torta

  • Soft Marble

    Soft Marble

    Marble gray and delicate gold iced hibiscus combine for soft, modern romance.

    Photo Credit: Jenna Bechtholt Photography / Cake by Honey Crumb Cake Studio

     

  • Street Art

    Street Art

    This rainbow of a wedding cake takes inspiration from bold street art. Placed in the middle of an art gallery, it looks like a piece of art itself.

    Photo Credit: Katie Lopez Photography / Cake by Sugar Fancies

     

  • Agate Geodes

    Agate Geodes

    Agate geodes influence the striking emerald design of the bottom tier, while a classy black and gold top tier serves as an elegant contrast to the jewel tone.

    Photo Credit: Apryl Ann Photography / Cake by Sugar Bee Sweets

  • Copper Foil

    Copper Foil

    Each tier crafts its own persona, from a simple white to a copper foil appearance to hand-painted spring flowers. Topped with roses, the look is eclectic romance.

    Photo Credit: Live View Studios / Cake by Sugar Euphoria

  • Ruffles

    Ruffles

    A bottom tier rich in ruffles pays homage to the frills of a wedding dress for a feminine look in a sultry, opulent blue.

    Photo Credit: Andrew & Tianna Photography / Cake by Buttercream Bakeshop

     

  • Pleats

    Pleats

    Rustic merges with glam in gilded pleats and a topper of summer botany.

    Photo Credit: Kristin La Voie Photography / Cake by Urban Icing

  • Square Tiers

    Square Tiers

    Gunmetal black buttercream lend this cake a concrete resemblance while offset square tiers provide a bit of edge. Dripping edible gold paint, raw quartz, and tumbling amaranthus finish off the look.

    Photo Credit: Christina Marie Photography / Cake by Kuba Kreations

     

  • Sky Blue

    Sky Blue

    Why have traditional white when your cake can match the color of the sky? Warm florals juxtapose with a cool blue for some sunny elegance.

    Photo Credit: Marina Mauletkali Photography / Cake by Fancy Cakes by Leslie / Flowers by Petals by the Shore 

     

  • Gilded Cake

    Gilded Cake

    This dreamy one-tiered cake is drenched in glamorous romance, from cascading red blooms to a gilded body rife in texture.

    Photo Credit: Natashia Nicole Photography / Cake by Jenny’s Cake

     

  • Navy Watercolors

    Navy Watercolors

    Thick navy watercolor splotches grace only the bottom tier of this cake for a simple, yet stunning look. A hint of silver metallic frosting skirting the edges combines for a wintry feel.

    Photo Credit: Maria Lamb / Cake by Sainte G. Cake Company

     

  • Geometric Designs

    Geometric Designs

    This non-traditional cake is all about the shapes. Round and hexagonal silhouettes contrast with one other while various geometric designs play together for an urban artsy vibe.

    Photo Credit: Clique Photography / Cake by Bang Pop Shop

     

  • Metallic Frosting

    Metallic Frosting

    With a sleek black finish and gold metallic frosting, this three-tiered cake makes a dramatic statement. Coupled with a purple flower, the result is autumn romance.

    Photo Credit: Tyler Branch Photo / Cake by Frost It Cakery

     

  • Watercolor Brushstrokes

    Watercolor Brushstrokes

    This dreamy cake painted in soft pastel watercolors calls to mind a magical seaside escape. 

    Photo Credit: Little Hunny’s Cakery

  • Agate Slices

    Agate Slices

    Lights and darks combine for a dramatic feel, accented with agate slices. Pastel and black have never looked so good.

    Photo Credit: Leighanne Herr / Cake by The Custom Cakery

  • Geometric Lines

    Geometric Lines

    From a hexagonal shape to a marble pattern and copper foil icing triangles, this cake knows how to play up geometry.

    Photo Credit: Katie Shuler Photography / Cake by Whisk and Whittle

     

  • Abstract Art

    Abstract Art

    This magnificent cake truly is art. Square and rectangle accents in intricate watercolors offset four square tiers for an abstract look that perfectly mirrors the painting behind it.

    Photo Credit: Priyanca Rao Photography / Cake by Madison Lee’s Cakes

     

  • Gold Medallions

    Gold Medallions

    This wedding cake is a wine lover’s dream. A scattered gold medallion appearance provides texture underneath an adornment of wine grapes, figs, and blackberries, all for a Bordeaux inspired look.

    Photo Credit: Emily Steffen Photography / Cake by Cocoa & Fig

  • Musical Notes

    Musical Notes

    Unique patterns like musical notes are an ideal way to reflect the bride and groom’s personalities. In this cake, the look is beautifully whimsical.

    Photo Credit: Love by Serena / Cake by Sweet Fix RVA

  • Jewel Tones

    Jewel Tones

    A light cobalt blue marble pattern, deep red flora, and flecks of gold make this cake a jewel-toned masterpiece.

    Photo Credit: KT Crabb Photography / Cake by Anna Cakes

  • Tropical Vibes

    Tropical Vibes

    A smattering of oversized palm leaves along the spine of this timeless marble cake creates a tropical flair.

    Photo Credit: Ruth Eileen Photography / Cake by Sugar Couture

     

  • Mussel Shells

    Mussel Shells

    This white and gray-blue cake features loose-handed brushstrokes in different directions, taking a cue from the laidback vibes of the surrounding beach, with an adornment of hand-painted gold mussel shells for a full sea effect.

    Photo Credit: Ashley dePencier Photography / Cake by Paper Cake Events

     

  • Organic Charm

    Organic Charm

    A stunning plum and gold corner geode design and botanic accents lend this square tiered cake an earthy and organic charm.

    Photo Credit: Our Love is Loud / Cake by Astonishing Cakes

     

  • Multiple Geodes

    Multiple Geodes

    Corner geodes in gold, silver, and violet blue are all this simple white cake needs for a breathtaking look. Paired with a matching agate topper, this cake is a real gem.

    Photo Credit: Tyler Rye Photography / Cake by Sweet Cakes by Karen 

  • Metallic Stripes

    Metallic Stripes

    Carefree wispy stripes of metallic gold add a bit of rustic glam to this garden inspired cake.

    Photo Credit: Hailley Howard Photography / Cake by Sweet E’s Bakeshop

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50 Contemporary Wedding Cakes

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25 Innovative Ideas for Your Wedding Toss Bar

You’ll be showered with happy wedding day wishes, but you don’t need to settle for the traditional rice toss. Set up a trendy toss bar made special with a few of these novel ideas.

By: Mary Wozniak

Enter Slideshow
  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Personalized confetti jars hold biodegradable petals in lovely shades of pink, lavender, and white.

    Photo Credit: Confetti Cone Company/Etsy

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Perfect for a very important date: “sprinkle me” Alice in Wonderland kraft paper cones.

    Photo Credit: Confetti Cone Company/Etsy

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Petal pops burst open with a shower of dried lavender and ivory rose petals laced with lilacs.

    Photo Credit: Flowerfetti

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Tear and toss — unique custom confetti bags hold glittery confetti.

    Photo Credit: Michelle Edgemont

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Vintage-inspired comic book prints provide quirky and colorful confetti cones.

    Photo Credit: Joyous Reflection/Etsy

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Birdseed-filled wands are an eco-friendly choice.

    Photo Credit: Mavora/Etsy

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Charming shabby chic paper cones are embellished with satin ribbon.

    Photo Credit: Faithful Crafter/Etsy

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Toss sweet-scented lavender buds, presented in hand-stamped muslin bags.

    Photo Credit: Pressed Cotton

  • Beautiful Displays

    Beautiful Displays

    Celebrate with a Mexican tradition. Cascarones are brightly-hued eggshells filled with confetti.

    Photo Credit: My Mercado/Etsy

  • Beautiful Displays

    Beautiful Displays

    A dazzling arrangement of confetti-filled cocktail glasses leaves no doubt: it’s time to celebrate!

    Photo Credit: Cigdem Duymaz via Lemon Pie Party/Etsy

  • Beautiful Displays

    Beautiful Displays

    Display pretty rose petals with a DIY printable sendoff sign.

    Photo Credit: Weddings by Jamie/Etsy

  • Beautiful Displays

    Beautiful Displays

    A rustic toss bar holds showers of wishes for the lovebirds.

    Photo Credit: Shingleur Photography via The Barn at Twin Oaks Ranch

  • Beautiful Displays

    Beautiful Displays

    Baskets and a louver door provide a charming display for petal-filled paper cones.

    Photo Credit: J. Woodbery Photography

  • Beautiful Displays

    Beautiful Displays

    Offer a basketful of fragrant lavender with beautiful calligraphy signage.

    Photo Credit: Kaylea Gaines Photography via Ink Stained Fingers

  • Cute and Quirky

    Cute and Quirky

    For your seaside ceremony, offer a display of fun mini beach balls.

    Photo Credit: Jack and Jane Photography

  • Cute and Quirky

    Cute and Quirky

    Heart-shaped confetti is handmade from recycled pages of classic romances like The Great Gatsby and Wuthering Heights. For a modern twist, add Twilight.

    Photo Credit: Attic Books UK/Etsy

  • Cute and Quirky

    Cute and Quirky

    Add a touch of whimsy with rainbow sprinkles.

    Photo Credit: Seaira Brown/Etsy

  • Cute and Quirky

    Cute and Quirky

    Think outside the box — the cereal box — with multi-hued fruity nuggets.

    Photo Credit: Katelyn James Photography

  • Cute and Quirky

    Cute and Quirky

    Hooray for a fun and punny “corn-fetti” toss!

    Photo Credit: Shewanders Photography

  • Cute and Quirky

    Cute and Quirky

    A sweet treat but not to eat — mini-marshmallows are a fun choice.

    Photo Credit: Ailyn LaTorre Photography via Mazel Moments

  • Celebrate the Seasons

    Celebrate the Seasons

    Perfect for your winter wedding: rose petals and lavender laced with bright berries and fragrant cedar greenery.

    Photo Credit: Flowerfetti

  • Celebrate the Seasons

    Celebrate the Seasons

    Autumn brides will love a mix of roses (for love), lavender (for devotion), and rosemary (remembrance), sprinkled with oak, maple, and birch leaves.

    Photo Credit: Flowerfetti

  • Celebrate the Seasons

    Celebrate the Seasons

    Eco-friendly dried flowers provide a colorful summer send-off.

    Photo Credit: Larkspur Hill/Etsy

  • Celebrate the Seasons

    Celebrate the Seasons

    A robin’s egg blue palette highlights a unique egg carton presentation.

    Photo Credit: Tara Whittaker Photography via Wedding Obsession

  • Unique Holders

    Unique Holders

    Double-duty confetti bags serve as wedding programs.

    Photo Credit: Salted Design Studio/Etsy

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25 Innovative Ideas for Your Wedding Toss Bar

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