As you can see, wedding cakes come in many shapes and sizes, depending on the number of guests it will serve. Modern pastry chefs and cake designers often use various ingredients and tools to create something that usually reflects the personalities of the couple too. Marzipan, fondant, gum paste, buttercream, and chocolate are among the most popular choices.

Wedding cakes are usually priced on a per-person, or per-slice, basis, with the prices ranging from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars per-person or slice, depending on the pastry chef hired to make it.

However, with smaller, more personal gatherings on the rise, some couples turn away from multi-tier confections. Instead, they opt for small cutting cakes of one or two tiers. "Because weddings are more intimate, there is a rise in small micro-wedding cakes and single-tier cakes," says Marleeta Peppers, owner of Leeta's Creations Custom Cakes.

Baker Arley Arrington added: "Lately, I've been working less on tiered cakes, and more on individually packaged desserts." 

According to Sarah Crowell, planner for Mavinhouse Events, having a small cake still allows for a traditional cake cutting moment, which many couples feel strongly about having. "With lingering health concerns, it really isn't sanitary to have a big cake on display and then serve it to everyone." Those who want loved ones to have a slice of cake can get creative and provide mini versions for each guest or table. For a more economical dessert option, couples can also offer pre-wrapped desserts, which are not only budget-friendly but Covid-safe as well.

When it comes to wedding cakes, it's better to be safe than sorry. If you don't agree with me, just keep scrolling. You'll change your mind by the end of the list.