Why Did Kate Middleton and Prince William Serve 7-Year-Old Cake at Prince Louis' Christening? We Investigated

We're used to the tradition of something old at weddings — but now we know that the British include this tradition in christenings too: Kensington Palace reported this morning that Prince William and Kate Middleton are serving slices of their own 2011 wedding cake to guests at their son Prince Louis’ christening.

We know of the American tradition of serving wedding cake in honor of anniversaries — in particular saving the top tier to thaw eat and eat upon the first wedding anniversary. Here's how the christening version works across the pond, according to Kylie Carlson of U.K. Academy of Wedding & Events.

"The tradition of saving a portion of the wedding cake for a first child's christening is a long-standing tradition in British weddings," Carlson told The Feast. "Typically, a wedding cake in the U.K. will include three tiers, each with its own special purpose.

Carlson told us, "The top tier is generally what is preserved for the christening. This varies considerably from American wedding cakes, in which the top tier is often saved for the first wedding anniversary. With Prince William and Catherine, it is widely known that their wedding cake was served at both Prince George and Princess Charlotte's respective christenings."

The cake served as dessert at the christening after a private tea at Clarence House for the Royals and their guests. We imagine there were some fresher nibbles available as well.