A wedding cake may just be dessert in essence, but it means much more to a ceremony than that.
The modern wedding cake, which dates all the way back to the 1882 nuptials of the Duke of Albany Prince Leopold, has become a critical part of the ceremony.
The cutting of the cake comes long after the couple shares their vows — sometimes shedding a tear like this incredibly loving couple — and after the first dance. (Remember Julia and James’ now famous Dirty Dancing moment?)
As old tradition has it, the cutting of the cake is meant to symbolize the first task the pair takes together as a married couple. They then feed each other the first piece to express how much they care for one another.
The tradition carried over to this generation, but it's become a lot more about appearance. Nowadays, it seems the more extravagant the cake the better. On average, couples now spend over $500 on their wedding cake, according to statistics from The Knot.
See some gorgeous wedding cakes below, and please SHARE these with all the soon-to-be married couples you know – they may need some cake ideas!
16. This cake is almost too elegant to even eat.

15. Here's a cake with matching edible heels. Seriously!

14. The gold and blue makes this cake original and eye-catching.

13. Look at this seven-tiered cake!

They just get better, trust me — go to the NEXT page!
12. This is a great pop of color.

11. These different shapes are delightful.

10. Just look at these beautiful silver flowers.

9. These red flowers just scream romantic.

Wait till you see #7 on the NEXT page!
8. Look at the detail on this one.

7. This is the perfect use of gold.

6. How could you go wrong with this combination?

5. This floral cake is just a beauty.

You don't want to miss the last four, click through to the NEXT page!
4. This looks like the sunset.

3. Why not change it up by having a chocolate-colored cake?

2. Or a multi-colored treat?

1. And finally, just look at this one. It's so mesmerizing!

Please SHARE these with all the soon-to-be married couples you know!