A Detailed Guide on How to Choose Dragon and Phoenix Cakes, their Meaning, Uses, and Taboos

In a traditional Chinese wedding, bridal cakes are a cherished symbol of joy and blessings. Though modern couples often opt for convenient coupons in place of physical pastries, traditional Chinese bridal pastries still hold a significant place in wedding customs. In this article, we’ll explore the traditions behind bridal cakes, how to select them, and the right time to give them out.

 

The Tradition and Meaning Behind Bridal Cakes

1. Part of the Betrothal Gifts

Bridal cakes, or 喜餅, are traditionally included in the 過大禮 (formal betrothal ceremony), where the groom’s family presents gifts to the bride’s family. Historically, cakes were sent in large quantities—commonly by the 擔 (basket), equating to 400 pieces or 100 catties—to signify the groom’s sincerity.

2. Always Given in Even Numbers

Today, couples often simplify the process by preparing a modest number of physical bridal cakes and using wedding coupons for the rest. Still, it's important that all cakes are given in even numbers, symbolizing harmony and pairing. Kee Wah Bakery offers several bridal gift boxes designed for this simplified process, all available in even sets:

(Full details: https://keewah.com/en/chinese-bridal-gifts.html)

3. More Cakes = Higher Status

The quantity of bridal cakes presented is symbolic of the bride's status and how much respect the groom’s family holds for hers. The more generous the offering, the more esteemed the bride is considered. To enhance the grandeur of this traditional ritual, Kee Wah also offers a wooden cake box rental service: with purchases over $1000, couples can borrow a set of two round wooden boxes for free (deposit: $1000), adding an authentic touch to the betrothal ceremony.

4. Sharing Joy with Loved Ones

Bridal cakes are also used by the bride’s family to announce the wedding and share happiness with relatives and friends. Distribution is usually based on the closeness of the relationship and seniority, again in even numbers to signify "pairing" and marital harmony.

 

How to Choose the Right Chinese Pastries (唐餅)

Kee Wah Bakery offers a wide range of traditional bridal pastries, each with its own symbolic meaning:

  • Century Egg Pastry: Symbolizes early fertility
  • Lotus Seed Paste Pastry: Represents good fortune
  • Mung Bean Paste Pastry: Conveys wealth and abundance
  • Assorted Nuts Pastry: Signifies a long and happy marriage
  • Walnut Cookie: Symbolizes marital harmony

All these pastries are available in Kee Wah’s bridal gift boxes, which also come with matching coupons for easy distribution. For budget-conscious couples, there are also $50 wedding coupon options.

 

When to Give Out Bridal Cakes?

After the Betrothal Ceremony

Cakes are typically distributed only after the 過大禮 (betrothal ceremony), often along with the wedding invitations. Since the betrothal usually takes place within three months of the wedding, timing can be tight—couples should plan ahead.

 

Can the Bride Eat Her Own Bridal Cakes?

Tradition Says No

According to custom, the bride should avoid eating her own bridal cakes, as it’s believed to "consume her own blessings." To preserve her good fortune, the bride refrains from tasting the pastries meant for others.