Who usually pays for the wedding cake?

In the past, the bride's family covered most wedding costs, including the cake. That tradition has faded, and now there is no fixed answer. Most couples simply budget for the cake as part of their overall wedding spend, especially if they are paying for the wedding themselves. Some parents offer to pay for the cake as their contribution, and others split the cost between both families. It is also common for a grandparent or a close friend to gift the cake as a wedding present. The best approach is to talk openly with both families early on. Ask if anyone would like to contribute, but do not assume. If you are a parent, offering to pay for the cake can be a lovely, practical gift. If you are a couple, decide what fits your budget first, then let others offer. The cake is one of the few wedding items that guests actually see and eat, so it often feels like a meaningful contribution. Whatever you decide, make sure the baker knows who is paying and how the final balance will be handled. That keeps everything clear and avoids awkward moments near the wedding date.