Let’s talk about wedding cake cutting!

What is a cake cutting? Do you need to have one? What part of a wedding cake do you even cut?? Do you have to save the top layer?

Wedding desserts vary from wedding to wedding, but one tradition always seems to stay the same: the wedding couple cutting some sort of dessert while getting their picture taken.

But is it more nuanced than that? Where did the tradition come from anyway? We’re here to answer those questions and more!

The tradition of wedding cake cutting dates back to Roman times

And really started with breaking bread. But the more recent traditions we know and love come from symbols of good luck, fortunes, and support. Here’s an excerpt from Gala Facility:

The symbolism is that the hand of the groom is placed over that of the bride’s, to show his support and as a promise to take care of her and their future.  The couple was encouraged to cut from the bottom tier, as a reminder of the relationship’s longevity. As for the attendees, having cake after it has been cut by the couple is believed to bring good luck.

Okay, but where do you cut it?

If you are saving your top layer of cake, you would usually cut it from the bottom to keep the top fully preserved. It is much harder to cut from the bottom so this presents some challenges. If you are not saving your cake (more on that later) you can cut it from the top, making a beautiful and easy cut into the cake.

Most couples cut one slice and share. And make sure to discuss with your partner about no cake smashing! Your caterer will take it from there and cut it into slices that make sense for the size wedding you are having. The bonus of a multilayered cake means you can have multiple different flavors of cake.

Saving your cake

The tradition of cake saving is an interesting one. Tradition states that a couple should save the top layer of their cake, freeze it, then thaw and eat it on their one year anniversary. Sounds cute in theory, but most of the time guarantees a dry, freezer-burnt cake on your anniversary. Plus, for couples who are traveling to Martha’s Vineyard for their wedding, this can present a huge hassle to get back home.

Instead, think about getting a new cake or treat to celebrate your anniversary and make a new tradition out of it. This creates something to look forward to, and maybe even a tradition to share with future generations.

Do you have to cut your cake?

For those couples who prefer to be out of the spotlight as much as possible, we recommend doing a silent cake cutting. This trend means your wedding planner will sneak you off the dancefloor while all your guests are having the time of their lives to cut your cake while they stay occupied. Giving you the chance to get those cut photos but remain under the radar.

What if you don’t like wedding cake?

No problem! You can cut anything! Local favorites on Martha’s Vineyard are Back Door Donuts. Pies, brownies, and even custom cannolis can be a great choice!

Did you have a cake at your wedding? Did you save the top for your anniversary? Let us know in the comments below.

Photos by: David Welch, Arletta Weddings, Randi Baird