First spotted on our radar way back in 2013, candles on wedding cakes are making a beautiful return and we couldn’t be happier to see it. Couples are swapping traditional cake toppers for softly flickering candles, lining long cakes with glowing tapers and pillars, and blowing them out together to mark the beginning of their new journey. It’s a simple, symbolic gesture that celebrates love, unity, and the start of a new family, and proves that some of the most romantic trends stand the test of time.
It’s also a super simple and subtly romantic way to decorate your wedding or engagement cake yourself, with that “Wow, I wish I thought of that” factor. What could be more beautiful in photos than a soft candlelit glow illuminating your happy faces instead of cutting the cake, just like this?
Where Has This Trend Come From?
Candles on wedding cakes first started appearing in the early 2010s, making their debut on One Fab Day back in 2013, as couples looked for ways to add a softer, more intimate touch to their celebrations. Originally seen as a subtle alternative to traditional toppers, the trend brought a romantic, flickering glow that created magical moments for photos and during the cake-cutting ceremony. After gaining popularity in editorials and on cake designers social feeds, it is now resurging as couples seek personal, meaningful touches and new cake ideas that give the cake a true main character moment, making it a show-stopping centerpiece that feels both elegant and timeless.
Candles on Wedding Cakes Ideas We Love
How to Create Your Own Candles on Wedding Cake Moment
Bringing the candles on wedding cakes trend to life is simpler than it looks.
- Choose safe candles: Start by selecting candles that are safe for use on cakes, such as unscented, food-safe long tapers.
- Arrange carefully: Place them along the tiers or edges of your cake, ensuring they’re stable and won’t drip onto the icing.
- Explore different styles: From long, minimalist cakes lined with slender taper candles to a simple cake with a single candle, there are endless ways to make this trend your own. You can even simply consider a single candle on top to make your wish together.
- Pick your colours: Soft white candles create a classic, romantic look, while coloured or metallic options can tie into your wedding palette. The goal is a warm, glowing effect that enhances both the cake and your celebration’s ambience.
- Coordinate with your wedding suppliers: Ensure your planner, wedding coordinator, cake designer, venue, and photographer aware of your candle plan so they can advise on safety, placement, timing and the best way to capture the moment.
- Create the moment: Light the candles just before cutting the cake and take a moment to savour the glow. It’s a romantic, photo-ready moment that celebrates your first act together as a married couple.
See more trend reports and unique ideas for your big day here.
