When guests arrive to the wedding reception, most assume there will be a three-tier cake elegantly displayed in the room. Lately, more couples are breaking tradition and coming up with alternative options for their sweet ending {I would choose to serve both!!} Check out these options:

Mini Donuts: Mini donuts are showing up at weddings, corporate events, birthdays, and private parties. The idea of having fresh, warm donuts made onsite at the end of an evening just brings a smile to my face. It is interactive, fun, and most of all… *DELICIOUS*. Here are two local companies that are doing great things with fried dough {Dolce Donuts and Party Donuts}.

Pies: An assortment of pies is a great way to have “cake” without actually having cake. You can create a display of pies for your guests to admire.  This provides something sweet,  something to cut, and a beautiful display.  Julian is well-known for their apple pies (my fav), and here is a place to order them.  {Another option: cheesecake!}

Bundt Cakes:   Surprisingly enough, bundt cakes are making there way into wedding receptions– and one company my be the reason for this.  Nothing Bundt Cakes, originally established in Las Vegas, has made its way to sunny San Diego.  Between bundtlets and tiered bundts, there is something for everyone. Getting creative and baking something tasty pays off!!! And look how adorable they are!

Cupcakes: How can you resist something so small, so tasty, and so perfect! Cupcakes are a great way to give your guests their own “personal” cake. San Diego has several options for the bride and groom. Here are just a few places– Cupcakes Squared, Cups, Babycakes.

Assorted Mini Desserts: There are so many options when it comes to “shrinking” your desserts.   My Sweet and Saucy is baking individual lollipop cakes that are so cute you won’t want to eat them. Check out their blog for other great ideas– true inspiration that will make you drool. Culinary Concepts offers dessert shots to give you bite-size goodness. And Eccentric International Chefs is creating an assortment of mini delights. There is an abundance of talented pastry chefs that can create a special dessert for your wedding guests– you just have to ask!

Ice Cream: Whether it’s ice cream bars or sundae stations, this cold treat is a great alternative for those non-cake loving couples {yes, there are people out there who do not care for cake–shock!}.  Crunchtime and Ben&Jerry’s both offer ice cream sundae catering services. YUM! If you want something fruity and refreshing, California Quivers may be the perfect option. Ask your caterer what they can do!!

What do yo plan on serving your guests on your wedding day? Cake, pie, ice cream… as long as it is something you love, you can’t go wrong!