Sweet treats: Today's weddings aren't all about the cake

It's hard to think about weddings without wedding cakes. A beautiful, elaborate cake is the centerpiece of the reception, and the moment the bride and groom cut the cake a highlight.

At least, that's the way it's been traditionally.

But more couples are scaling down on the cake and offering their guests other sweet treats.

"A lot of girls are not wanting a cake," says wedding planner Nancy Moreton of Weddings by Nancy. "I've heard that more and more. They opt to have a small cake for pictures, then have desserts."

Angie Hoeckele, owner of Hoeckele's Bakery and Deli in Perryville, says it's also a way for brides to save money. "I think more brides are thriftier," she says. "They're looking for ways to use their money wisely."

Moreton has seen more brides turning to different desserts as a way to set their wedding apart. "The more formal weddings still have cake," she says. "The more rustic weddings tend to have dessert bars."

Here are some alternatives to the traditional wedding cake:

CAKE

Yes, you read that correctly. You can still have a scaled-down wedding cake and not deprive your guests.

Hoeckele says she's had brides order large, iced sheet cakes that are cut in the kitchen and served on plates. Guests never know the difference. "It's cheaper," Hoeckele says, "because you aren't paying for the decoration."

You can also serve personal servings of cake. Nicole Huff, owner of Sugar Buzz Bakery in Cape Girardeau, says cake balls, cake pops and petits fours are good choices. Then, of course, there's the ever-popular cupcake.

PIES

A pie bar is perfect for a rustic, laid-back wedding. What could be more American?

"I had a wedding recently (where) the groom made homemade pies" for the reception, Moreton says.

If you or your partner are up to the challenge -- or have friends and family who can pitch in -- the homemade baked goods can add a nice personal touch to the festivities.

COOKIES

Moreton, Hoeckele and Huff all agree cookie bars are becoming popular.

"They want signature cookies, either wedding bells or hearts," Hoeckele says. But, she adds, even good chocolate chip cookies are being offered. Try serving them with a small glass of milk to give your guests a taste of their childhood.

ICE CREAM

Who doesn't love ice cream with an array of toppings? Pick a few flavors of ice cream and provide sauces, nuts, candies and other toppings for your guests to build their own sundaes. (This probably isn't the best option for outdoor summer receptions.)

BAKED GOODS

Of course, you don't have to limit yourself, or your guests, to one treat. Moreton has seen receptions with a variety of baked goods offered, including doughnuts.

But, she warns, setting up a dessert bar with serveral options is a lot more work than just having a cake.

CANDY

Hoeckele says she's seeing more and more brides set up candy stations where guests can fill bags with a variety of candies. Guests can munch on the candies throughout the night or take them home as a party favor. If you're really ambitious, try finding candies that coordinate with your wedding colors.