Ah, the wedding cake—one of the sweetest traditions of the day (literally!). Cutting the cake is a classic wedding tradition—but that doesn’t mean you have to do it at the traditional time. But when exactly are you meant to slice into that beautiful confection? While there’s no hard-and-fast rule if you find yourself wondering 'When do we cut our wedding cake?', the timing of your cake cutting can actually help set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Whether you’re all about keeping it classic or looking to mix things up, there are plenty of moments that might be just right for you. Here’s a rundown of your options so you can pick the one that feels the most "you."

Right After Your Ceremony

You’ve just said your vows, shared your first kiss, and are walking back up the aisle… so what happens next? Why not head straight to your cake, slice into it while the light is still dreamy, and serve it up with some bubbly, a a cuppa? Your guests are already riding high on all that ceremony love—what better time for cake!

During the Cocktail Reception

Cutting your cake during the cocktail reception is a fun and slightly unexpected way to kick off the celebrations. You’ve just tied the knot, your guests have a drink in hand, and the vibe is light and joyful—it’s the perfect time to sneak in this sweet tradition while the daylight is still glowing for photos. It’s also ideal for guests who might be feeling a little peckish between the ceremony and dinner, and ensures your cake doesn’t get forgotten or go to waste later in the night when everyone’s on the dance floor.

Bonus: it’s a great conversation starter as everyone gathers around with a glass of bubbly and a slice of cake in hand. Who says cake can’t be part of cocktail hour?

As Part of Your Reception Entrance

You’re making your big entrance—everyone’s watching—so why not roll straight into cutting the cake? It’s a great way to make the most of the spotlight without having to pause the party later. Plus, it gives you something to do with your hands if you’re feeling a bit awkward with all those eyes on you.

Before The Dessert

If you're looking to streamline your menu or just really love cake (who doesn’t?), serving your wedding cake as the main dessert is a sweet and savvy choice. It gives your cake its moment to shine—and ensures none of it goes to waste! Guests get to enjoy a beautiful slice at their tables, and it keeps things simple, elegant, and delicious. You can always pair it with berries, fresh cream, or a scoop of ice-cream if you want to elevate the experience even more.

After The Wedding Meal

This option is more traditional—the wedding cake cutting becomes the final ‘formal’ moment before the party really kicks off. This option involves cutting the cake immediately after dinner while people are still seated from dinner. It’s a nice cue for older guests that the official bits are done and it’s okay to duck out now. Pro tip: if you go this route, make sure your guests know where the cake is. If you cut it late in the evening and then just leave the slices on a side table chances are a lot of your guests will be too busy dancing to notice.

Once you're done with the cutting, and snapped a few cute pics, the venue team will usually whisk it away, slice up behind the scenes and have it served to your guests—often during a natural break in the dancing, like when dessert or late-night snacks are coming out. That way, everyone still gets a sweet bite without missing a beat on the dance floor!

Wedding Cake Cutting Tips

• Let Your Venue or Planner Know the Plan. Once you've chosen your moment, make sure your planner or venue is looped in. They’ll coordinate the logistics—like having the cake in the right spot, plates ready, and photographers on standby. If you plan on preserving the top tier of your cake make sure to let your venue know this too.
• Make Sure It Gets Served! Make sure someone’s in charge of serving the cake once it’s cut. If you’re not having cake as dessert, make sure there's someone appointed to getting it sliced and served. A beautiful cake shouldn’t go to waste—especially when your guests are bound to get peckish later in the night.
• Personalise the Moment. Add a fun detail—your favourite song playing, a custom cake topper, or a nod to your heritage. Little touches make it feel extra "you."
• Don’t Overthink It. You don’t to make it into a big moment if you don't want to. Just take a slice from the bottom tier, share a bite, and soak up the moment. Whether you’re playful or polished, just be yourselves—there are no wrong moves.
• A Sweet Send-Off. Ask your venue to box up any extra slices of wedding cake for guests to take home—a sweet parting gift they’ll appreciate after the celebration ends.
• Choose a Beautiful Knife. A pretty cake knife or heirloom set makes the moment feel that little bit more special—and looks much nicer in photos than a standard kitchen knife. Some venues do provide a nice set for you, so be sure to check in advance. If not, bringing your own is an easy way to elevate the moment (and the photos), and it’s a lovely keepsake to treasure.
• Have a Backup Slice. Ask your venue, caterer, planner, or baker to set aside a slice (or two!) for you to enjoy later. Between all the excitement of the day, it’s easy to miss your own cake!

Still looking for the perfect supplier to make your cake? Check out our recommended bakers here.