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By Katherine Gotthardt | Sponsored by Cakes by Happy Eatery
As every bride and groom know, weddings aren’t just about dresses, tuxes and venues. They
are also about the centerpiece of every celebration—the wedding cake. Victoria Wu, owner of
Cakes by Happy Eatery bakery in Manassas, is preparing 2026 wedding cake orders, working
with couples that view the cake as an integral part of the wedding’s overall design, décor and
color scheme.
“Cakes complement the whole wedding look,” Wu explains. “They also often follow fashion
trends. If you look at fashion, you’ll see what the next collection is. It gives you the upcoming
style. Wedding cake styles will complement what’s coming down the line.”
For Wu, this means keeping her finger on the pulse of fashion and design while working closely
with couples to create something truly unique, something that fits their personalities and
preferences.
Wu identifies “vintage glamour” as one of the hottest trends currently in the wedding industry.
Many couples are opting for throwback designs, seeking cakes that match the nostalgia of their
chosen attire, she says.
“If couples have a throwback design dress, they want a cake to complement that look and feel,”
explains Wu. For example, when brides share details about the lacing on their dresses, they
often ask Wu to create a cake that will echo those elements, ensuring a harmonious visual
experience.
The simplicity trend is also making waves, as some wedding gowns are embracing a minimalist
aesthetic, according to Wu.
“We see a return to simplicity with the use of monochrome colors—think all white or all beige,
maybe with just one splash of color,” she shares. This minimalist approach reflects a current
desire for understated elegance.
Seasonal colors play a significant role in cake design as well.
“In summer, we might see pastels, while in fall, variations of red, gold and orange become
popular,” Wu says.
As weddings become more personalized, Wu reports that many couples are leaning into
themed weddings—whether by focusing on a style like deco with black, white, and silver or
something uniquely tailored to match their personalities.
Wu says every element of the wedding, including the groom’s tuxedo, contributes to the overall
design aesthetic. For example, a recent client presented a tuxedo featuring red, white and blue,
reflecting his political interests. For the couple’s intimate wedding, Wu creatively designed a
half-and-half cake—one side traditional, adorned with flowers, the other side showcasing the
groom’s politically themed decor.
“This shows their personality,” she explains, highlighting how personalized details make the
cake truly memorable for both the couple and their guests.
In describing the design process, Wu says when couples collaborate with her, they provide a
wish list. From this, and by examining other elements of the wedding such as the dress, tux,
décor and/or flowers, she crafts a cohesive design that not only tastes delicious but also brings
smiles to everyone at the celebration.
It takes time, so Wu urges those interested in securing a wedding cake to plan ahead. “Anyone
interested in a wedding cake should not wait until the last minute. Couples can and should book
ahead for next year.”
Cakes by Happy Eatery is located at 9685 Liberia Ave, Unit 107, Manassas, Virginia. For more
information, visit cakesbyhappyeatery.com, or call 703-530-8898 to schedule a consultation.
This article is part of a series on wedding cake trends and tips.
