groom standing at the alter looking anxious, t was during covid and everyone is wearing a face mask

In the world of wedding traditions, the groom's cake is one that often gets overlooked. But if you're looking for a fun, meaningful, and delicious way to personalise your big day, this charming custom might be exactly what your celebration needs.

The groom's cake is a tradition rooted in history—originally popular in Victorian England and later embraced across the southern United States. Traditionally, it was a richer, more decadent cake made with dark chocolate or fruit, served as a complement to the bride's classic white wedding cake. Today, the groom's cake is making a quiet but meaningful comeback, offering couples a creative way to showcase the groom's personality (and let's be honest—an excuse for more cake is always welcome!).

Where Did the Groom's Cake Come From?

The concept of the groom's cake dates back centuries. While the bride’s cake was often light, white, and symbolic of elegance and purity, the groom’s cake was quite the opposite—rich, dense, often flavoured with chocolate or alcohol, and intended to reflect the groom’s tastes. Some traditions included giving guests boxed slices to take home, and there was even an old superstition that single women who slept with a slice of groom’s cake under their pillow would dream of their future husband.

Although it faded in popularity in some regions, it stayed strong in others, particularly in the US. More recently, with couples seeking more personalised touches for their wedding days, the groom's cake is having a well-deserved revival.

Why Have a Groom's Cake at Your Wedding?

While not a "must-have," the groom's cake is a brilliant way to add personality, fun, and a bit of surprise to your day. Here’s why more couples are choosing to include one:

1. It’s all about the groom Weddings often centre around the couple together—but let’s be honest, a lot of the choices lean towards the bride’s vision. A groom’s cake gives the groom a moment to shine. Whether he loves golf, guitars, gaming or Guinness, the cake can reflect his passions and personality.

2. It adds a creative and fun element The groom’s cake doesn’t have to be traditional or serious. In fact, the more creative the better! Cakes shaped like footballs, superheroes, favourite books, or even funny inside jokes between the couple are becoming increasingly popular.

3. It gives guests more variety Not everyone enjoys the same cake flavour. If your wedding cake is something light and floral, like lemon or elderflower, why not go for something rich and chocolatey for the groom’s cake? Offering two different flavours gives guests more to enjoy.

4. It creates a moment Whether you reveal the cake during the rehearsal dinner, as a surprise at the reception, or even give the groom a mini cake-cutting moment of his own, it’s a lovely opportunity to create an extra memory during your celebrations.

Groom’s Cake Ideas to Inspire You

Need some inspiration? Here are just a few ideas to get the creativity flowing:

A chocolate Guinness cake shaped like a pint glass
A red velvet cake themed around his favourite football team
A cake styled like a vintage record player or guitar
A Star Wars-themed cake featuring his favourite characters
A mini replica of his favourite car, built in cake form
Or even a tiered cake made using his mum’s famous recipe for a sentimental touch

The options really are endless—it just depends on what feels right for you both.

How to Include It in Your Wedding Day

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to the groom’s cake. Some couples opt to serve it at the rehearsal dinner, while others reveal it during the evening reception as a surprise. Some choose to display it alongside the wedding cake, while others use it as a dessert table centrepiece later in the night.

Whatever you choose, it’s a simple but meaningful way to bring an extra smile to your day (and your guests!).

Final Thoughts

In a world where weddings are becoming more personal and less traditional, the groom’s cake is a sweet way to add a little fun, flavour, and individuality. Whether it’s quirky, classic, or full of sentiment, this tradition gives the groom his own moment—and gives everyone a little more cake to enjoy.

So if you’re planning your wedding and looking for creative, thoughtful ideas to make the day truly yours, don’t skip the groom’s cake. It might just be one of your guests’ favourite memories.

Let’s make your wedding as unique as you are

If you’re looking for ways to bring personal, memorable touches into your day, I’d love to help you plan and style a celebration that feels totally you—from the main cake to the fun little extras. Get in touch today and let’s chat about how to bring your ideas to life!