When it comes to marriage ceremonies, a wedding cake remains one of the most iconic symbols. A large, multi-tiered, impeccably decorated, white layer cake is something most people instantly associate with a union. In many cases, this magnificent creation is topped by a figurine of a bride in a white gown and a groom in a black tux. That may be fine for some straight couples, but for couples who are queer, trans, or non-binary, it’s worth exploring alternative wedding cake toppers for their special day.

What’s in a Name

Names are an important part of our identity. Whether we go by the ones given to us by family or ones of our own choosing, our names matter. If a couple will have a shared last name, consider a custom topper featuring the surname. This is also a great choice for newlyweds who are picking a new last name altogether. This type of cake adornment can be made out of wood, acrylic, or some other material that is safe for food. Consider the length of the surname and the font to be used. It should be coordinated with the design of the cake as well as the reception décor. 

Love You to the Letter

If a full name doesn’t suit your aesthetic, consider going with just initials. When it comes to family, a monogram is especially fitting for apparel, accessories, and linens. Why not the top of your cake? You may be able to find what you’re looking for at an arts and crafts store, or at an online retailer. Marriage is a partnership, and as a symbol of equality and mutuality, you could do monograms based on your and your partner’s first initials. Inject some personality into this by choosing a look for your letter that reflects your sense of individuality.

Fur-ocious Wedding Cake Toppers

Couples of any sexual orientation or gender identity may feel like they’re best represented by animals instead of human figurines. A pair of animal figurines that symbolize love and harmony could be really nice atop your magnificent cake, such as doves, swans, horses, or even dolphins. Perhaps there are animals that embody qualities that you and your spouse-to-be hold dear, such as brave lions, wise elephants, or cool flamingos. If you and your partner have fur babies, they could be the inspiration for your cake topper. 

Picture Perfect

You’ve heard that a picture “is worth a thousand words,” sometimes capturing a moment or conveying a feeling that’s hard to verbalize. While your wedding cake may not be the place for so many words, it is a great place to include pictures of you and your partner. A photograph, especially one in a Polaroid-style presentation, is a fun and quirky way to “crown” your wedding dessert. Perhaps it’s a picture of the two of you locking lips or an engagement photo. It could even be two separate pictures “joined” as one photo, symbolizing the two of you coming together in marriage.

Other Wedding Cake Toppers

If human or animal figurines aren’t your cup of tea, you could top your cake with small sculptures, carvings, or statuettes of objects that can represent the two of you as individuals or as a couple. Think of pieces in the classic board game Monopoly. There’s a shoe, a car, and a top hat, among others. Maybe you love dressing up for parties and date nights, while your partner is more casual. Imagine a cake topped with a figurine of a high heel pump or wingtip paired with a sneaker!

When it comes to tying the knot, the details are entirely up to you and your future spouse. LGBTQ+ couples are often inspired to do things their own way. A wedding cake topper is an opportunity for the two of you to put your own spin on things.