Couples consider grocery store cakes to save on wedding costs

Weddings remain one of the most costly life events, with the average expense around $36,000, according to the wedding-planning website Zola, as reported by APR. The Bank of America Institute noted an 8.5% increase in wedding spending among its customers compared to the previous year.

Economic factors such as inflation and tariffs have contributed to rising costs for suits, catering, imported flowers, and bridal gowns, making budgeting a challenge for couples. Some couples choose to splurge on venues or popular reception trends, but many are looking for areas to cut expenses.

One area where couples are willing to save is on the wedding cake. About one-third of couples surveyed by Zola said they would consider spending less on cake and dessert. Emily Forrest, Zola's head of communications, explained that cakes often do not rank high on couples' lists of splurges.

Despite cost-cutting, the tradition of having a wedding cake remains important. For example, a bride in Alabama ordered her cake from Publix, a grocery chain, incorporating baby's breath decorations. Guests were surprised to learn the cake was from a grocery store.

Costco is another popular option, offering half sheet cakes for about $30 each. While the average wedding cake slice costs about $5.50, a slice from Publix is approximately $1.50 cheaper, still delivering the classic three-tiered white-frosted appearance.

Couples continue to balance where to save and where to spend as they plan their weddings amid rising costs, with cake being a common area for savings without sacrificing tradition.