Wedding cakes come in tiers, traditionally three. However, times are changing. Wedding cakes are now extremely popular in one and two tiers. It's a good thing that the years when every couple planned to have a three-tier wedding cake are over because life would be so repetitive otherwise. Couples are breaking the mould. Here, we explore why wedding cakes are in tiers, how many tiers are really needed for a wedding cake, and of course, cake servings and sizes. 

Why are wedding cakes in tiers?

According to tradition, wedding cakes are in tiers to allow for separation. One tier is to eat on the wedding day, the other is for guests to take home, and the last (the top tier) is preserved for the newlyweds to enjoy on their first anniversary after freezing. Although this is tradition, many seem to have stepped away from this and now embrace one and two-tiered cakes on their special day.

How many tiers are needed for a wedding cake?

Honestly, as many as you want! Although traditionally there are three tiers to a wedding cake. This tradition has seen a lot of change in recent years. Couples are choosing one and two-tiers much more now. It ultimately comes down to how many guests you have attending your wedding and your budget. We suggest one and two-tiered cakes for smaller weddings. Small weddings usually consist of 50 people or less. 

Wedding cake sizes and servings

When looking for the perfect size wedding cake for your special day, you may find yourself wondering what size your wedding cake should be. To decide the perfect size for your wedding cake, you must refer to your guest list. Compare the number of people on your guest list with the number of people a wedding cake can serve to find the perfect match.

When it comes to how many servings a wedding cake provides, there will always be portion guidance given with our wedding cakes. Typically, a one-tiered cake will serve up to 24 guests and a two-tiered cake will serve up to 20 guests.  

Let's use our Pink Ombre Rossette Cake as a two-tiered wedding cake example. This gorgeous two-tiered cake serves 16-20 guests. This is perfect for a small, intimate wedding. Or even a renewal of vows celebration. The same goes for our Naked Signature Lily Wedding Cake. This show-stopping cake serves up to 24 guests comfortably.

Dummy tiers for wedding cakes

A dummy cake tier is an imitation tier. This is usually made out of styrofoam or polystyrene. These imitation tiers are decorated exactly like the wedding cake. This is purely to give the effect of a larger cake and to minimise food wastage. When it comes to choosing your wedding cake, let your personality shine through.

Explore our outstanding range of one and two-tiered wedding cakes today.