I don't know about you, but I absolutely love wedding cake. There is just something about the dense consistency of the layers spread with a lovely smooth frosting that just sorts of melts in your mouth.
As far as I'm concerned, it's the best part of the celebration dinner, and I've been known to hold out for hours in anticipation of a slice when the reception seems to drag on forever.
And, I'll admit that it's difficult for me to contain my enthusiasm when the cake cutting becomes first on the list at a reception.
Picking the perfect cake involves a lot of decision making on the part of the bride and groom. It deserves to be one of the major highlights of the evening.
Tradition tells us that the joint cutting of the cake symbolizes the first "task" of the married couple's life together.
The bride and the groom each take turns feeding each other the first slice, symbolizing the commitment to provide for each other.
I just love it! Nothing makes me happier than watching this obvious display of affection.
In contrast, nothing annoys me more than watching two people who have just vowed their lives together, smashing cake into each other's faces!
And, I shudder when I hear the crowd of people in attendance, chanting, hoping to see a near food fight. They cheer in jubilation when icing is plastered over faces; they moan in dismay when nary a crumb is dropped.
What is wrong with these people?
Many of you may scoff at my opinion, and think that I take this tradition too seriously.
But let me suggest that the results of this tradition are actually a Marriage-Happiness-Indicator.
From personal observation, let me share with you my findings:
Cake damage to the spouse = unhappy marriage. Most ending in divorce in less than 5 years.
Careful cake feeding = respectful, happy marriage.
To me, this makes perfect sense. A happy marriage is strongly dependent on respect.
Now, this is not saying that everyone who is divorced smashed cake into their partner's face.
Nor is it implying that those who did not, lived "happily ever after". I'm perfectly aware that there are many factors that can complicate the happiness of a marriage, leading to divorce.
No one can really predict what the future will hold, but it is my opinion that starting out the marriage with food in one's face is not exactly an endearing beginnning.
As far as this beautiful young couple is concerned......I was privileged to be among the invited, and am thrilled to have been part of the glorious celebration of their marriage.
If my indicator is up to snuff...these two have many years of happiness ahead of them.
Congratulations and Best Wishes to the happy couple!
I agree with your cake-feeding observation, Barb. I believe that shoving cake into another person's mouth..., especially someone whom you love..., is crass. Wishing this couple all the best!
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