The cake-cutting ceremony is one of the most time-honored wedding traditions. It symbolizes the first task you perform together as a married couple, and let’s be honest, it is often the sweetest part of the night.
It’s easy to freeze when you’re standing in front of a multi-tiered work of art with a knife in one hand and 150 cameras pointed at you. Which part do we cut? Who puts their hand on top? Do we feed each other?
We have helped thousands of couples get through this moment at our top Houston venue, which hosts almost 400 events each year. We know how to make this moment smooth, photogenic, and tasty at Pelazzio. Our packages include custom cakes from Supreme Kakes and professional cutting services.
Here is our expert step-by-step guide to nailing the cake cut without a hitch.
TL;DR
The cake cutting is a photo opportunity first and a dessert service second. Always cut from the bottom tier to preserve the structure. Place the groom’s (or partner’s) hand over the bride’s for the classic photo pose. Decide beforehand if you are going to “smash” or “feed” politely to avoid awkward surprises. Once you have shared your bite, step aside, our professional staff takes over to slice and serve the rest to your guests, so you can get back to the dance floor.
1. Timing is Everything: When to Cut
Traditionally, the cake was cut at the very end of the reception. Today, timelines have shifted to keep the party energy high.
- The Modern Approach: We recommend cutting the cake immediately after dinner or right before the dance floor officially opens. This signals to older guests that it is polite to leave if they wish, while energizing the younger crowd with sugar for the party ahead.
- The “Grand Entrance” Cut: Some couples choose to cut the cake immediately after their grand entrance into the ballroom, before dinner is even served. This ensures your hair and makeup are still perfect for the photos.
2. The Setup: Hand Placement & The Knife
This is the part that feels the most awkward but looks the best in photos.
- Positioning: Stand slightly to the side of the cake (not directly behind it) so the photographer has a clear angle of both your faces and the cake.
- The Grip: Traditionally, the bride (or partner 1) holds the knife handle. The groom (or partner 2) places their hand over hers. This symbolizes unity and support.
- The Tools: You will usually have a knife and a cake server. Use the knife to make the cuts and the server to lift the slice onto the plate.
3. The Cut: Where to Slice (And Why)
The biggest mistake couples make is trying to cut the top tier.
- The Rule: Always cut from the bottom tier.
- The Reason: The top tier is often unstable or saved for your first anniversary (a tradition we support!). Cutting the base provides a solid foundation.
- The Method: Make two small parallel cuts about an inch apart. Then, make a horizontal cut connecting them at the back. Use the server to slide the wedge out smoothly.
Pro-Tip: Don’t “saw” the cake. Our partners at Supreme Kakes bake fresh, never frozen cakes, so the knife should glide through easily.
4. The Bite: To Smash or Not to Smash?
This is the moment of truth.
- The “Civilized” Feed: Carefully break off a small piece of cake (forks are optional but recommended for less mess). Feed it to your partner gently. This is the safest route for preserving expensive makeup and tuxedos.
- The Smash: If you plan to smash cake in each other’s faces, discuss it beforehand. A surprise smash can ruin the mood (and the professional photos) if one partner isn’t on board.
- The Pelazzio Advice: We suggest the polite bite for the photos. You have the rest of your lives to be playful, but you only wear that wedding dress once!
5. What Happens Next: The “Cutting Service” Perk
Once you have fed each other a bite, you are done! You do not need to slice a cake for 200 people.
- The Hidden Fee Myth: Many venues charge a “cake cutting fee” (sometimes $1-$3 per slice) just to cut the cake for your guests.
- The Pelazzio Advantage: Our Paradise Packages include the cutting service. Our Event Captain and waitstaff will whisk the cake away to the kitchen, slice it, and professionally serve it to your guests or place it on a dessert station. You simply head to the dance floor.
6. Pelazzio’s Cake Partner: Supreme Kakes
A great cutting ceremony requires a great cake. We are proud to partner with Supreme Kakes Catering Bakery for our all-inclusive packages.
- Custom Design: You get a custom round-tiered buttercream cake included in your package.
- Quality: They are known for award-winning designs and, crucially, baking individually to order so the cake is always fresh.
- Tastings: Your package includes a cake tasting, so you can be confident that the flavor matches the beauty.
The cake cutting is a sweet start to your new life. Let us handle the details from the bakery coordination to the serving so you can enjoy the moment.
Contact Pelazzio today to learn more about our all-inclusive packages featuring Supreme Kakes.
