Saving the anniversary tier

When working with couples on determining the size and design of their wedding cake, a question that frequently comes up is "Should I save the top tier for my anniversary?" 

Well, why do we save the top tier? Most couples freeze the cake with the intention of sharing it on their first wedding anniversary. The tradition has its roots in the late 19th century when grand cakes were baked for christenings. It was assumed that the christening would occur soon after the wedding ceremony, so the two ceremonies were often linked, as were the cakes. With wedding cakes becoming more and more fancy and elaborate, the christening cake quickly took a back seat to the wedding cake. When three-tiered cakes became popular, the top tier was often left over. A subsequent christening provided a perfect opportunity to finish the cake.  As the time between the weddings and the christenings widened, the two events became disassociated, and the reason for saving the top tier changed.

( In researching the history behind saving the top tier I came across an old tradition where the groom would break the cake over the brides head, symbolizing the grooms dominance over her. Glad we don't follow this tradition anymore!!)

So, should you save it? Well, it depends on your budget and personal preference. If you are on a tight budget, utilizing your top tier as cake servings for your wedding can save you anywhere from $50-$100. (Or more depending on how intricate your cake is and who is making it). Saving the top tier may also end up leaving you with more cake than you need. One bride I worked with was set on saving her top tier and wanted a 3 tiered cake. However, in doing so, she was ending up with atleast 50 servings more than she needed. This left her with not only extra cake, but extra cost. Utilizing her top tier gave her just enough servings and saved her quite a bit of money. And lucky for her, she got her cake at Frost This Cakes. All of our couples that get their wedding cake with us get a discounted anniversary cake in any flavor they wish. It's made fresh and tastes better than a cake that was frozen for a year :) 

Here is the proper way to store your cake, should you decide to save it. First, wrap cake tightly in Saran Wrap. Then wrap in foil, place in a ziplock bag or air tight container and place in your freezer. Just a few simple steps to store it! And when you are ready to eat it, all you need to do is leave the cake on the counter at room temperature for a few hours. Just remember, your cake may get freezer burn after three months or so, so if you don't want it to go to waste, you might want to dig in early!!