I was caught off-guard when my family started singing “Happy Birthday” to my daughter on her first birthday and I burst into tears. I didn’t realize how overwhelmed I was by the fact that the first year went so darn quick! You are going to love preserving your child’s first birthday with this special session, and I am truly honored to be able to share this experience with you. Planning a cake smash session is a lot of fun and we’ll work together to make your vision a reality.
Planning a Cake Smash Session, Step One: Choose a Theme (this is also it’s own blog post – may want to link to it)
This is probably the most fun step. The possibilities for cake smash themes are absolutely endless. I tend to lean towards more traditional, simple set-ups. After all, this session is all about your little one! We don’t want them to be lost in the backdrop and props. That being said, poke around on Pinterest and see what catches your eye. Think about your child’s interests thus far. Are they obsessed with dogs and yell “Da!” whenever one walks by? Are donuts their favorite thing? Or maybe you want to go more simple and choose a color scheme. Some of my favorite sessions are when parents request a simple color palette (pink and gold, for example). I can then create a simple set, bringing in these colors.
Feeling overwhelmed? Not to worry! I absolutely love planning a cake smash session and if you give me the go-ahead, I’ll ask a few questions and be excited to surprise you on the day.
Step Two: Client Questionnaire
I will send you a client questionnaire about a month and a half before your cake smash session. I like to check in to see what ideas you have and it always takes me at least two weeks to make sure I can order the cake and get the right props in time. The questionnaire will help me to visualize what you have in mind. I give the optician for you to send me inspiration pictures, which is always helpful. This will also be the point where we can chat about props that you want to include, and what you already may have at home that you can bring along.
Planning a Cake Smash Session, Step Three: Outfits
As a busy mom, I know how stressful it can be to choose outfits. My solution: a carefully curated selection of outfits that fit kiddos, sizes 6m-18m. I can pull an outfit or two that fit your color scheme and we’ll be good to go! If you prefer to bring your own outfit, you are more than welcome to do so. I am happy to help you look at that if you choose. Again, simple really is best for the cake smash session. Little boys in blue jeans and suspenders is just about the cutest thing I can think of!
Friends, that is it! I will work with a local bakery to create you a custom cake that’s perfect for your session. When you arrive at the studio on the day of your little one’s cake smash, I love to surprise you with the set I have created based on your vision. And then we get to smash some cake!
Interested in a cake smash session? Check out the portfolio here. If you have a kiddo that’s a little beyond a cake smash, I host birthday mini sessions four times a year. You can see more information about that here.