Slicing A Wedding Cake: A Step-By-Step Guide

Cutting the wedding cake is a beloved tradition and a symbolic moment for the newlyweds. It is also a great photo opportunity. There are a few things to consider when preparing to cut the cake, such as location, tools, and technique. It is important to choose a spot that is easily accessible and well-lit, with a nice backdrop for photos. The couple should also decide whether they want to cut the cake in a wedge or box shape. Having the right tools, such as a cake knife, plates, and forks, is essential. It is customary for the couple to cut the first slice together, with their hands on the knife, and then feed each other the first bite.

Choose a solid location with room to stand and a great backdrop for photos

When choosing a location for your wedding cake, it's essential to consider both functionality and aesthetics. The cake-cutting moment is symbolic and makes for excellent photo opportunities, so you'll want to ensure the backdrop is as beautiful as the cake itself.

Firstly, look for a spot that provides ample standing room for you and your partner. It's crucial to feel comfortable during this special moment, and having some extra space to move around the cake table can help ease any nerves. Avoid squeezing in next to the cake; instead, opt for a spacious area that allows for effortless cake cutting and stunning photographs.

The location you choose should also offer a solid surface to place the cake. This stability will ensure that the cake remains steady and secure as you make the first cut. Additionally, consider a spot that is well-lit but away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can not only affect the quality of your photographs but also cause the tiers of the cake to slide. By selecting a well-lit area with a great backdrop, you'll be rewarded with beautiful photos that highlight every detail of your carefully chosen wedding cake.

When deciding on the perfect location, be mindful of any potential eyesores that could detract from your photos. Serena from Cobi & Coco, an industry expert, advises against placing the cake table near fire extinguishers or alarm buttons, as these can spoil the visual appeal of your pictures. Instead, opt for a clean wall or a backdrop that complements your wedding theme and enhances the overall presentation of the cake.

Cut a small slice from the side of the bottom tier

Cutting a wedding cake is a meaningful moment that symbolises the new life of the married couple. It is also a practical element, as it is how the dessert is served to the guests.

The couple should stand in front of the cake table, with the bride typically on the left. They should then make the first cut at the front of the bottom tier, slicing a small, ceremonial piece. This slice is often the only one they cut themselves.

The first cut should be about an inch into the cake, then a connecting line, and the cake knife is used to lift the slice onto a plate. The couple's hands should both be placed on the knife.

The rest of the cake is then plated and served to guests by the catering staff or designated helpers.

Use a cake knife and a server to lift the slice onto a plate

Using a cake knife and a server to lift a slice of wedding cake onto a plate is a delicate operation, but it's simpler than you might think. First, make sure you have the right tools. You'll need a cake knife, a plate, and a server. If you don't have a cake server, a spatula can be used instead.

Now, you need to decide where to cut. Choose a tier that is a comfortable height for you and your partner. You'll want to cut a slice from the side of the chosen tier. Cut about an inch into the cake, then make a connecting line by moving the knife over about an inch and cutting again.

Finally, use the cake knife or cake server to carefully lift the slice of cake onto the plate. If you're serving the cake buffet-style, you can add a flower to each plate as a garnish. And that's it! You've successfully sliced and served your wedding cake.

Cut the cake into a grid, with slices about 1 thick

Cutting a wedding cake is a symbolic moment and the first official activity a couple does together in their married life. It is usually done after dinner and just before the first dance.

When it comes to cutting the cake, the couple usually only cuts the first slice, leaving the rest to the caterers. To do this, the couple should stand on the side of the cake, holding the knife together and cutting about an inch into the cake, then making a connecting line. Use the knife or a cake server to remove the slice and place it on a plate.

If you are cutting the whole cake, it is recommended to cut it into a grid with slices about 1-inch thick. This is done by making a large bullseye grid, similar to a dartboard with sections cut in circles and also slices down the middle. This method is usually used for round cakes, while square cakes are cut into a large grid to make each slice a little square.

Serve the cake buffet-style so guests can choose from multiple flavours

If you want to serve your wedding cake buffet-style, it's a good idea to have multiple cakes or cupcakes in different flavours. This way, your guests can choose their favourite flavour and you can be sure that everyone will enjoy the cake.

When deciding on the flavours, you can either opt for one flavour per cake or mix different flavours within each cake. If you want to keep costs down, it might be best to stick to one flavour per cake. However, if you want to offer a variety of flavours, you can have each tier of your cake be a different flavour. Just make sure to separate the flavours with a cake board to prevent them from mixing.

If you're not sure which flavours to choose, consider traditional options such as vanilla, chocolate, lemon drizzle, red velvet, or Victoria sponge. These flavours are popular for a reason—they're universally loved and pair well with various fillings, frostings, and toppings.

For something more unique, you could experiment with different combinations. For example, you could try raspberry and white chocolate, banana and poppy seed, cherry and blackberry, tropical coconut guava, pistachio and dark chocolate, or even olive oil and rosemary. The possibilities are endless!

Don't forget to consider the time of year and the theme of your wedding when choosing flavours. For a summer wedding, light and fruity flavours like strawberry-watermelon or mango and matcha could be perfect. For a fall wedding, consider spiced pear with chai tea icing or apple-spice cake with roasted apples.

And if you want to incorporate a special meaning, think about any flavours that hold significance for you and your partner. Maybe you both love blueberry jam or can't get enough of almond-milk lattes. By incorporating these flavours into your cake, you'll add a personalised touch that your guests will surely appreciate.

Finally, don't be afraid to break with tradition and choose flavours that you and your partner love, rather than what you think your guests might prefer. After all, it's your special day!

Frequently asked questions