Gwen Stefani’s wedding cake is one of the most iconic trends in modern wedding history. Designed by the incredibly talented Lauren Kitchens of Fancy Cakes by Lauren, this viral masterpiece captured the hearts of wedding enthusiasts and set new standards in luxury cake design. Synonymous with elegance, vintage charm, and deeply personal storytelling, Gwen’s cake continues to inspire couples seeking unique, custom wedding cakes that reflect their own love stories.
In this special episode of Bridal Club™, we sit down with Lauren Kitchens—the founder of Fancy Cakes by Lauren, a Dallas-based luxury cake studio, and the baker behind Gwen’s legendary cake.
Lauren Kitchens: The Genius Behind the Viral Vintage Wedding Cake
Lauren’s journey into cake design began in 1993, when she baked her first-ever creation—a Barbie Bundt cake - for her best friend’s birthday. “It was my first time using a piping bag. A little cringe-worthy now, but 30 years ago, it was a triumph!” Lauren laughs.
From there, she began baking cakes for friends and classmates. Her natural talent and growing passion quickly turned into a full-time endeavor. After renting her parents' kitchen and working part-time at a local bakery, she officially launched Fancy Cakes by Lauren in 2002, focusing exclusively on wedding cakes.
Her big break came in 2008 when she was invited to compete on Food Network Challenge. Though initially hesitant, the experience pushed her creative limits and catapulted her reputation. Lauren went on to win multiple episodes, including one where she crafted a Muppet-themed cake- cementing her status as an innovator in the cake design world.
But the cake that garnered worldwide attention? Gwen Stefani’s.
The Wedding Cake that Went Viral
When Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton were planning their wedding, Gwen wanted to honor her parents by recreating their original wedding cake. Lauren brought this vision to life, using a single photograph to design a stunning, multi-tiered work of art that flawlessly blended vintage elegance with modern flair.
The result wasn’t just a cake, it was a statement. The piece quickly went viral, serving as a testament to how wedding cakes can be both deeply personal and visually iconic.
The response was so powerful that Lauren now receives frequent requests from brides to recreate their parents’ cakes—ushering in what many now refer to as the Vintage Wedding Cake Era.
Lauren Kitchens' Show-Stopping Groom's Cakes
While Lauren is renowned for her wedding cakes, her groom’s cakes are just as unforgettable. She’s become known for crafting over-the-top, personality-driven groom’s cakes that are anything but ordinary.
Gone are the days of basic chocolate and strawberry. Today’s groom’s cakes feature everything from miniature sports arenas to lifelike pets, favorite hobbies, and pop culture references.
Lauren even suggests making the groom’s cake a surprise—turning it into a fun, memorable moment during the reception. These cakes spark conversations and often steal the show right alongside the wedding cake.
Get In Touch with Lauren Kitchens
If you're looking for a cake that will turn heads and tell your love story, Fancy Cakes by Lauren is the name to know. With a legacy of crafting breathtaking, personalized confections, Lauren transforms visions into edible works of art.
Contact Lauren Kitchens
Phone: (214) 552-9949
Email: info@fancycakesbylauren.com
For more inspiration, check out the full episode of Bridal Club™, where Lauren shares the behind-the-scenes story of creating Gwen Stefani’s viral wedding cake and her journey in the world of luxury cake design. Catch the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube—this is one you won’t want to miss!
Bridal Club™ is your go-to podcast for expert advice and behind-the-scenes stories from top luxury vendors, real brides, and wedding industry leaders, offering tips and inspiration for creating the wedding of your dreams.
