OK, so a ton of people put real ribbon at the base of the cake layers. So, how do they cut through the cake for the pictures? Just not cut all the way down? I've always used a fondant ribbon but I've got a few coming up that want a real one. I'm worried enough about the oils soaking through and how to attach it in the back (a pin?). What do I tell the bride about the cutting ceremony?

If your using a fondant cake it can be attached with royal icing, i wouldnt use a pin just incase it gets lost. usually on pictures you dont have to cut all the way down, even if they do, it will only pull the ribbon away from cake and it will need removing anyway when they cake comes to be served

I leave a 2 inch peice in the back without any ribbon just for the cutting. If the cake is not against a wall I pin in a 2 inch piece to be removed by the planner before the cutting.

The empty 2" idea is good. Thanks! I told them they might not cut all the way down...I'll see what they prefer!