One of the first things to think about when planning your wedding? Theme. Perhaps you want an over-the-top, Bridgerton-style affair. Maybe you’d rather keep things simple with a casual backyard vibe. Or maybe you’re one of the many couples opting for bohemian-style nuptials.
Also called boho, a bohemian wedding is a nice and chic idea. Boho is relaxed and carefree but also stylish and elegant. Most boho weddings utilize an earthy color scheme, natural decorations (think pampas grass, vines, and palm fronds), and secondhand décor.
While choosing the right wicker lanterns and vintage china is important when planning your boho wedding, let’s not forget about the wedding cake. If you’re planning a boho wedding, here’s what you need to know before you meet with your baker.
With its free-spirited nature and countercultural slant, the boho wedding theme is all about expressing yourself. Want to mix turquoise and mustard yellow together? No problem! Always dreamed of serving your wedding meal on mismatched china? Go for it!
In the simplest terms, this vintage-inspired style is all about tossing aside traditional wedding conventions and the latest wedding trends in favor of what makes you happy. For that reason, the boho aesthetic will appeal to those who define themselves as free spirits, hippies, or artists.
Most boho weddings incorporate relaxed, natural beauty. There’s usually a combination of natural elements (such as vines, dry grasses, and wildflowers), old-fashioned textiles (lace and linen), and earthy colors (olive green, beige, and terracotta).
From unfrosted or partially-frosted cakes (also called naked wedding cakes) to fresh flowers and catchy, colorful detailing, there’s an infinite number of boho wedding cake options.
Still, keep in mind that most boho wedding cakes honor simplicity above all else. A boho wedding cake may look like a classic wedding cake embellished with just a few added details. What these cakes lack in decoration, though, they make up for in impact. Done correctly, some silver leaf detailing or artfully arranged grass can elevate a white wedding cake into a bohemian masterpiece.
Here are some elements and themes perfect for a boho-themed cake:
Once you’ve designed the perfect boho cake, it’s time to add the finishing touches. More specifically, you’ll need a boho wedding cake stand, cake topper, and serving utensils. Here are some creative wedding cake accessories to consider.
For a cake stand, use a:
For a cake topper, try a:
Look for serving utensils that are:
Wondering how much you’ll need to budget for your boho wedding cake? In 2023, the average cost of a wedding cake was around $500, with most couples spending between $300 and $700.
Various factors impact cost. Cake size is arguably the most important, with two and three-tier cakes going for much more than single-tier cakes. The flavor of the cake, type of frosting, and specialty ingredients like flavor extracts or creams also influence pricing. Design features like gold-leaf detailing, fondant flowers, and textured frosting will add $50 or more to your final bill.
If on a budget, opt for an unfrosted cake (also called a naked cake) versus something pricier like a painted boho wedding cake. Not only will you save money on frosting and labor, but these unfinished cakes fit the boho aesthetic perfectly.
Another money-saving tip? Keep the cake flavor simple. Specialty flavors can add hundreds of dollars to your final bill, so opt for more affordable options like vanilla or chocolate instead.
Boho style is characterized by a laid-back, relaxed aesthetic that incorporates a variety of colors, patterns, and textures. The colors are neutral and earthy, while patterns are eclectic and varied (for example, floral, ikat, folk, or tribal). Organic elements, such as wood, wicker, and greenery, figure prominently.
Short for “bohemian,” the boho mentality is all about creativity, individuality, and rebellion against traditional norms. Those who identify with this label tend to be artists or performers. However, Boho is more than a label; it’s a life philosophy and worldview.
“Boho” is an abbreviation for “Bohemian homeless.” “Bohemian” refers to the nomadic group of Romani people from the Bohemia region of Czechia. This group lived a countercultural life centered around musical, artistic, and spiritual pursuits. While the term originally referred to this unconventional lifestyle, now, it’s more about relaxed style and decor.
There are no specific boho colors, but earthy tones such as brown, green, and tan are popular base colors, alongside accents in purple, yellow, blue, teal, and bright orange.
The boho aesthetic incorporates natural elements like wood, stone, burlap, and jute. With the right wedding planner, you’ll have no trouble incorporating some of these materials into your wedding decorations. They might even serve as inspiration for a whimsical wedding cake.
Don’t get us wrong — designing a beautiful wedding cake is important. However, sweet treats are a small part of what makes your big day special. Along with the desserts, you need to think about finding a breathtaking venue, locating a talented caterer, and choosing the perfect photographer.
We know how overwhelming all that sounds, so we’ve put together a wedding page with everything you need to know about hiring wedding vendors. We’ll also give you tons of tips related to wedding budgeting, dress codes, and much more. No matter where you are in the wedding planning process, The Groom Club is here to help.