Luster Studios » North Carolina Photographers Craig Carpenter

INVITE YOUR GUESTS TO PARTICIPATE
If there is enough space I usually encourage couples to invite friends and family to surround them as they cut their wedding cake. Not only does it help block out unwanted background elements or blank walls, but it engages the couple with their friends and family. Regardless of whatever angle I chose to photograph from I can also look for exciting moments happening behind them.

CUTTING THE CAKE
The groom should place his right hand over the bride’s right hand, and together you cut into the bottom layer. In the traditional method the groom should feed the bride her first bite and the bride should feed him. If I could offer a piece of advice from a photographer’s viewpoint I would suggest small bite sized pieces. It can sometimes look unflattering if the piece of cake is so big that each of you have to strain those jaw muscles just to make it fit.

TO SMASH OR NOT TO SMASH?
In most cases I’ve found that the decision to smash or not to smash cake into your new spouse’s face is sometimes spontaneous but usually discussed before hand. If you are a groom I would suggest casually mentioning it to your fiance first and guage her reaction. I’ve found more often than not that brides have a strong opinion about this matter and usually opt out of the idea if given the choice. On the other hand, if each of you think it might be fun, it can yield some exciting photographs brimming with true emotion and often laughter.

SONG SUGGESTIONS
Cut the Cake – Average White Band
How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – James Taylor
I Will Never Find Another More Sweeter Than You – K-Ci and Jojo
Love and Marriage – Frank Sinatra
Recipe for Making Love – Harry Connick, Jr.
Sugar, Sugar – The Archies
The Sweetest Thing – U2
Hit Me With Your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
Sweets For My Sweet – Ben E King
Oh Yeah – Yello
Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard
So Happy Together – The Turtles