Should We Offer Desserts Besides Cake?

Can we serve only cake for dessert, or should we offer other desserts, too? What are some inexpensive options?


It’s sweet and it’s served after dinner—sounds like dessert to us! A slice of cake is the perfect way to end the meal, and you’re not obligated to provide your guests with other selections to choose from. Sure, some couples opt for a dessert table to accompany cake service, but rest assured your guests aren’t counting on it.

However, if you’re looking to add a little variety to dessert, here are a few options that won’t break your wedding-planning bank: You could arrange for plated truffles or chocolate-covered strawberries to be placed on each reception table. Folks who don’t have room for a big slice of cake (go figure!) at the end of a filling meal might still want a little something to satisfy their sweet tooth. Another idea is to set up a fruit station after dinner. It’s a refreshing addition to dessert—especially on a hot summer’s night.

One final idea certain to please the chocoholics in the crowd is to set out bowls of individually wrapped bite-sized candy bars. Pick up bags of these assorted and festive treats and have the waitstaff set them out near the cake. Just like kids knocking on your door at Halloween, your guests won’t be able to resist grabbing a handful (and probably throwing some in their pockets for later!).

Whether you decide to add extra sweets for dessert or not, just remember that as long as guests get their coffee and cake, they’re good to go.