Is there a protocol for cutting the wedding cake?

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Evelyn Carpenter

A Thousand Portraits

Although it is not part of the ceremonial protocol, like exchanging wedding rings or declaring vows, splitting the cake is a classic that does not go out of style, although it is renewed. In fact, there are cakes that carry signs with love phrases instead of the typical dolls or cakes formed by donuts floors, among other options.

So, if you love this tradition as much as you love wearing a white wedding dress or a boutonniere, find out everything you need to know about this sweet ritual here.

Origin of the tradition

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The Root of the Custom of Cutting the Wedding Cake dates back to Ancient Rome In the marriages of those years the groom would eat half of a wheat dough with salt The bride's head was then broken off, much like a piece of bread, and then the other half was broken over the bride's head. This act represented the breaking of the virginity of the woman. The guests, for their part, picked up the crumbs from the ground and ate them as a symbol of fertility, prosperity and long life to the marriage.

Subsequently, as the volume of the wheat dough increased over time, became a very popular dish in the links of the 17th century. known as "bride's cake" and which consisted of a piece of minced meat decorated with sweet breadcrumbs .

Since then, the cake evolved in different formats It is worth mentioning that, in the beginning, wedding cakes were made with a variety of shapes, sizes and compositions, until finally arriving to what we know today. white as a symbol of purity but also of material abundance, because only wealthy families had access to buy refined sugar. for its preparation.

When to cut

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Although there is no absolute ruling regarding the moment to cut the cake, at present this ritual takes place at the end of the banquet The dessert can be served either before or after the dessert, depending on the time and budget of the bride and groom. In fact, in many cases, in many cases the dessert is replaced by the wedding cake especially if the food was plentiful.

That's right, it is advisable to announce the moment so that everyone pays attention to the cut. Remember that it will also be a good opportunity to show off your gold rings, as the professional photographer will be there to photograph you. will capture in detail your hands in action cutting the cake among other shots.

How to cut

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Cutting the wedding cake represents one of the most emblematic moments of the big day. and requires a protocol, since symbolically, this is the first task that they carry out together. the bride and groom after being declared newlyweds.

This is how, at the moment of giving the first cut, the husband places his hand on his wife's hand so that she can between the two of you take out the first piece Then, both they give each other a piece to try out and then get ready to share it with the rest of the guests. Tradition has it that the first to taste immediately after the bride and groom, must be their parents It is advisable to serve them personally, while the catering staff is in charge of distributing it to the other guests.

Now, apart from choose a nice knife that they can keep as a souvenir next to their wedding glasses, it is recommended that they also use a spatula and even practice in advance the position of their hands to make the cut.

Personalize the moment

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There are many ways to give a unique touch to this ritual starting with choosing figurines that identify them. And it is that beyond the classic cake sweethearts that are mounted on top, there are nowadays many other options, such as grooms characterized with their professions, animals, dolls inspired by movies or grooms with children.

On the other hand, can set the moment to music with a special song and before cutting the cake, a speech or two. You can even project a video, among other ideas that come to mind.

In addition, can perform the tradition of pulling on the charms in which single or single women participate. take a piece of cake with you to freeze it and eat it on the first anniversary of their marriage, as an omen of a life full of happiness. This last one is an American custom which is not yet so widespread in our country.

With regard to the implements, some couples keep wedding knives or dishes that are family heirlooms So wearing them will also mean honoring your roots.

And, for example, if the groom is in uniform They also wear their respective costume according to their rank, can replace the knife to cut the cake for his sword.

What if there is no cake?

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It is a possibility that there will be no wedding cake, as this is just part of a nice rite, but in no case is it an obligation In fact, there are several possibilities, since there are also those who resort to a prop cake with the top tier only with sponge cake to be able to split it.

Or, simply, those who do not have cake and prefer to replace it by an abundant buffet of desserts, a candy bar or a melted chocolate waterfall with fruit skewers or marshmallows to spread.

In addition, another trendy alternative is to simulate the shape of a cake, but using cupcakes distributed on a platform with several tiers Whatever your choice, what is certain is that you will be able to traditions are being renewed and today there is total freedom to personalize your celebration as you wish.

You can see that it is not only possible to customize the wedding decoration, but also other items such as the cake or whatever you prefer to offer to close the banquet. Now, if you decide to fulfill the rite, you will treasure a unique moment, as important as the exchange of silver rings or the first dance of the newlyweds.

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Evelyn Carpenter is the author of the best-selling book, All you need for your marriage. A Marriage guide. She has been married for over 25 years and has helped countless couples build successful marriages. Evelyn is a sought after speaker and relationship expert, and has been featured in various media outlets including Fox News, Huffington Post, and more.