Pismo Beach Wedding Cake - How to have your cake and eat it too!

Looking to celebrate with some cake and a toast after your Central Coast wedding ceremony? Add on cake cutting photos so we can capture those moments with you and your guests.
Why Celebrate Right After the Ceremony?
There's something so special about sealing the deal right after you say your vows. Some couples decide to have a cake cutting and toast instead of a reception or dinner. While guests are waiting for photos, they can enjoy cake and some bubbly.
Cake Ideas
The cake in the photo above is from PK Custom Cakes in Pismo Beach. Our couples have also used Sea Breeze cupcakes in San Luis Obispo. Sea Breeze delivers. We also did a blog on a grocery store cake decorated with flowers and a cake topper.
Here's some reasons why you should celebrate with a cake cutting after the ceremony:
More photos = more memories -
Enjoy more moments with your guests and celebrate your wedding day
Makes the Celebration Simple & Personal – No need for a long reception or dinner - celebrate the simple way! with cake and a toast
IA Surprising & Fun Twist – Guests will enjoy the surprise of celebrating immediately - who doesn't love cake?!?
Less Stress, More Fun – No stress about a large reception timeline—just cut the cake, raise a toast, and celebrate!
How to Set Up a Ceremony Cake & Toast Celebration
Some of our locations already have a picnic bench. See the photo below for a set up at the Margo Dodd Gazebo.
Other couple have brought in small tables. The couple comes up with the decorations they want to add.
Here's a list of what you need:
- Table at the location or bring one in
- Table cloth to cover the table
- Plates, napkins, forks for the guests
- Cups, glasses or champagne glasses for the toast
- Cake or cupcakes for you and the guests (some couple do a small cake for themselves and then cupcake for guests)
- Cake cutting set
- Cake topper or flowers
- Sparkling cider or champagne (make sure the location allows alcohol)
- Decorations like initials, flowers, etc.
If you have the cake cutting after the photos with guests, we may be able to set up the table for you.
A Celebration That Feels Right for You
Weddings today are all about creating a day that reflects who you are as a couple. If the idea of a long, traditional reception doesn’t feel like you, then celebrating right after the ceremony with cake and a toast might be the perfect alternative. It’s simple, meaningful, and filled with love—exactly how a wedding celebration should be.
We always say - plan your day, your way!
So, as you plan your special day, consider skipping the wait and celebrating in the moment. After all, what better way to start your marriage than with a slice of cake, a glass raised in your honor, and the people you love cheering you on? Let's help you with your Pismo Beach wedding cake.
At an intimate Pismo Beach wedding or elopement, every detail becomes more intentional and meaningful—including the timing of the cake cutting. Choosing to cut the cake right after the ceremony creates a natural and joyful transition from the emotional vows to the celebration that follows. It marks the official start of your new life together in a sweet, symbolic, and visually beautiful way.
For smaller gatherings, a post-ceremony cake cutting also makes perfect logistical sense. There’s no rigid timeline or reception program to follow, and it allows you and your guests to savor a quiet moment of connection before any formal meal or toasts begin. It sets a light, celebratory tone—especially for daytime or outdoor weddings where the energy is more relaxed and personal.
Additionally, cutting the cake right away ensures you capture the moment while emotions are still fresh and the setting is perfect—whether that’s a mountaintop, backyard garden, or city courthouse steps. Your photographer can easily document this tradition without needing a second setup later, and your guests get to enjoy a sweet treat while mingling or toasting with champagne. It’s an elegant, heartfelt way to start the celebration without delay.

