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Wedding Announcements

Why Cake?

History holds that the Roman Empire for beginning the wedding cake tradition. Typically the groom broke loaves of wheat (fertility symbol) bread over the bride's head, and guests scrambled for crumbs, which were considered good luck. During the Middle Ages, sweet buns were exchanged for the loaves, and guests were responsible for bringing them to the wedding as gifts for the bride and groom. Following the ceremony, the buns were piled up, and the newlyweds tried to kiss over the stack. The taller the pile, the more prosperous the couple.
According to legend, a French Chef working during the reign of King Charles II in the 16th century traveled to London and was horrified by their tasteless traditions. The chef hurried home and whipped up something that looked like a pile of buns, but tasted good, and covered it with icing. Finally a dessert free of dirt and drool!
Today's wedding cake is more of a showcase than a symbol. So go for flavor and style that add personal elan to your special day. Flaunt edible fruits and flowers; crown your cake with a small, sentimental item from your family's past; serve up your favorite spice cake; or dig up your cultural roots and treat guests to a dessert with international flair.

By Catherine Parmelee
For the Juneau Empire