Who usually cuts the cake at a wedding?

Short answer

Traditionally the couple cut the cake together, usually with the groom's hand over the bride's. Today, any couple can cut it together, or you can ask a caterer or venue staff to do it. The cake cutting is often a photo moment.

The cake cutting is usually done by the couple together. The classic pose is both of you holding the knife, with one hand over the other, for a photo. That tradition comes from a time when the first slice was shared as a symbol of unity. Today, same-sex couples and all couples can do the same, or simply take turns.

If you do not want the fuss, you can ask the caterer or venue staff to cut and serve the cake behind the scenes. Many couples choose to have a small ceremonial cut for photos, then let the kitchen portion it out for guests. That is practical and saves time.

If you have a caterer, check with them whether they will cut and serve the cake as part of your package. Some venues include cake service, others charge extra. You can also ask a trusted friend or family member to handle it, but make sure they know how to slice a fruit cake or sponge cleanly.

There is no legal requirement about the cake. It is purely a tradition. You can skip it entirely, have a dessert table instead, or cut a small cake for the photo and serve a different dessert to guests. The choice is yours.