Many wedding cake customs of Scotland have also been passed on to other cultures and countries.
Scottish Wedding Cake
The traditional Scottish wedding cake consisted of two tiers of brandy-flavored fruitcake. The cake was baked at the time of the couple's engagement. Only one tier was eaten at the wedding celebration, while the top layer was saved to celebrate the birth of the couple's first child.
Cutting the Wedding Cake
Scottish couples often cut their first slice of the wedding cake with the groom’s dirk.
Victorian Wedding Cake Pulls
This wedding tradition dates back to the Victorian Era. Sterling silver charms were tied to satin ribbons and hidden under the bottom layer of the wedding cake. The cake was then constructed, with the ribbons hanging down around the perimeter of the cake. The charms were hidden under the bottom layer.
Traditionally, the bridesmaids pulled the charms out before the bride and groom cut the cake.
Victorian Wedding Cake Charms
and Their Meanings
The traditional charms were given these meanings- Magic Lamp ~ Dreams Come True
- Dollar Tree ~ Financial Security
- Heart ~ Your Love is True
- Rocking Chair ~ Long Life
- Wedding Bells ~ Joyous Declaration
- Anchor ~ Stable Life
- Cross ~ Life of Peace and Tranquility
- 4 Leaf Clover ~ Life of Good Luck
- Horseshoe ~ Good Luck & Prosperity
- Heart Lock ~ Faithful Love
- Key ~ Key to the Heart
- Wishbone ~ Wishes Come True
- Chimney Sweep or Ladder and Brush ~ Luck
- Thistle ~ Scottish heritage
- Celtic Knot ~ Scottish heritage, love’s enduring promise
- The Saltire ~ Scottish heritage
- Claddagh ~ Friendship, Love, & Loyalty
- Celtic Cross ~ Pledge to Defend the Home
