Wedding cakes originated in Rome over 2000 years ago in the form of bread that was split over the newlyweds to symbol prosperity, fertility and good fortune. Over the years, this humble loaf has evolved, transformed and mutated into the elaborate multi-tired, fruit-filled, flower-strewn masterpieces we use today.

The cake is an essential part of any wedding; Cutting the cake together as man and wife symbolizes unity in the marriage and the eating of it symbolizes, well, yummy cake. Often used as a focal point of the reception, it’s no wonder that many couple spend a lot of time, effort, and not to mention money, to get the perfect wedding cake for their celebrations.

Wedding cake traditions vary from country to country around the world. In the UK, the cake is traditionally a heavy fruit sponge covered in white fondant icing, while in other parts of continental Europe the cake resembles more of a fancy bread or pastry, which may be woven into different shapes, symbolizing the union of two families.

The most traditional wedding cake these days consists of a simple sponge cake iced in white and standing three tiers tall. This neutral color means they can then be decorated to your hearts content in order to fit your theme and color scheme.

Flavored sponge cakes are also becoming more popular, with a huge variety of flavors available to suit any palettes, from light lemon to blissful Baileys. Add in all of the different choices for frosting and toppings and choosing a cake can be a fun and adventurous tasting experience!

Here are some options for each budget...

Under $300
For those with a limited budget, look no further than your local supermarket. They often sell a whole host of mix-and-match traditional cakes so you can create your perfect combination. Choose the size, the filling and a color, or ice yourself. With cakes starting from a low prices, this is the perfect option for credit-crunch weddings. A white iced, three-tiered sponge cake will cost the minimal amount leaving you with plenty of money to spend on the honeymoon!

If the cakes seem a little plain, why not add your own decorational touches, such as flowers, ribbons, feathers?

Under $500
With a bit more cash to spend, you could find a baker who will decorate the cake themselves. This has the benefit of looking like a work of art. Carrie’s Wedding Cakes (a favorite of Blissful Vows) has a stunning cake named “Hilary”. It is classically elegant, with sugar pearls lining the base of each tier and shining satin ribbon wrapped around it. $400 for three tiers.

$500 +
Then there are the big cakes. The elaborate ones. The ones that will have your guests talking for weeks. Of course, these come at a price but it can be worth it for not only a beautiful cake, but a delicious one too. Maples Cakes sell a delightful range of beautiful, chic cakes from $500 for a cake that serves 100.