Traditional wedding cakes are extremely beautiful and often the centerpiece of any reception. However, you’re a modern bride in the Carolinas and your take on the cake can be a contemporary one, should you choose. Here is a selection of unconventional reception desserts.

Cupcakes have become more present on the wedding scene. In fact, they even sell stands that present your cupcakes in a tiered, cake-like display. Your cupcakes can be ordered through your local bakery or grocery store and decorated with the frosting of your choice. Or, you may decide to bake them yourself (with the help of plenty of friends and family members). To eliminate stress, consider baking in advance and freezing your cupcakes. Then thaw and decorate them just prior to your big day.

Fondue is an elegant dessert that’s enjoyed by many due to its interactive element. Guests can enjoy dipping bite size fruit and simple cakes and cookies into delicious chocolates and sauces. Provide a selection of both dips and dippers to make the experience even more intriguing. Small fondue pots can be placed at each table; this will also encourage guests to chat with others sitting around them.

Specialty cakes and pies put a slight twist on the customary cake while not straying too far. Choose from cheese cakes, tiramisus, cream or fruit pies, tarts and more. Make your decision based on a childhood favorite of you or your groom or to accent the overall feel of your wedding. Your specialty cake or pie can be purchased or homemade by the baker(s) in your family.

Chocolate displays are tantalizing to look at and even more so to eat! Such displays can entail carved structures or scenes made entirely of chocolate or simply levels and layers of an array of chocolate pieces. Your guests will delight in choosing and tasting from the display, as if it were a large ‘See’s Candies’ box. Include a chocolate fountain for the centerpiece of your display; fountains are always a crowd-pleaser.

Gourmet platters of assorted cookies and brownies are trouble-free, both to prepare for and serve at the wedding. For some, this alternative may be a bit too basic; for others, it’s the perfect simplicity to add to a garden wedding or kid-friendly reception.

When making your dessert choice, consider cost, number of guests, wedding theme or tone and preparation required. But, most of all, consider your wedding day desires. What do you envision as the perfect dessert to accent and enhance your special day? Go with that!