Cake Smash FAQ
I frequently am asked these questions from parents as they look forward to their baby’s first birthday. A cake smash is one option for celebrating this special occasion, and I hope these answers help you decide if adding one for your baby is right for you.
What is a cake smash?
A cake smash session is held around a baby’s first birthday. Babies are given a cake and the freedom to eat/destroy it however they please.
Themed or simple - both work!
For some babies, this is their first taste of cake or a sugary dessert, so it’s a fun milestone to capture and celebrate their birthday. Certain families do heavy theming, with props and custom outfits to match a color scheme or idea, while others stay with a minimalist approach with the baby, cake, and perhaps balloons.
There is no right or wrong way to do a cake smash.
Pick what you like or ask me for ideas or help with any themes.
When is the best time to schedule a cake smash?
Some parents like to do these sessions very close to baby’s first birthday. If you want photos for a party, though, you will need to schedule the session in advance to allow time to receive your gallery.
Keep turnaround time in mind
It takes me about 2 weeks to edit, so keep that in mind when looking at your calendar. Many parents like to use the images for their birthday invitations, post party thank you cards, or to have a large canvas displayed at the party itself.
How much does a cake smash session cost?
I price my cake smash sessions like individual baby sessions unless parents have purchased a milestone package with photos at the 12 month age. Here's a link to all my baby session and milestone pricing.
How long does the session last?
1st birthday cake smash sessions are about 45 minutes long. If you opt to do both a cake and a bath then the sessions are closer to 60 minutes.
Where does the cake smash session take place?
At my studio
Cake smash sessions take place in my studio in SE Aurora, CO, located near Southlands Mall. This allows for me to control lighting with studio lights, have everything prepped in advance, and isn’t weather dependent.
We can also pick a time of day that works around your child’s nap, which typically doesn’t mesh with best times of day for outdoor sessions with ideal lighting.
Do you also take non-cake smash photos?
YES! I do nice photos first, before the messy cake smash portion. I have a few outfits or props, like hats for boys or rompers for girls, but most parents bring one nice outfit for their child.
Where do I get the cake?
Due to allergies, I do not provide the cake, but I have cake stands, props, and other theming items to coordinate.
Check local bakeries or even the grocery store
Many bakeries offer a discounted or free smash cake with the purchase of a larger sheet cake, as well as individual round cakes so just ask. You can also make a cake yourself, do a bunt cake, or even a cupcake.
Cake Do’s and Don’ts
Room temperature
Please make sure cake is room temperature the day of the session. Little ones don't like to play with cake if it's too cold, and it’s difficult for them to break it apart and eat pieces if the icing is hard on the outside.
Frosting colors
When picking frosting colors, please stay away from red, black, and brown. During the smash, those colors can look like blood and/or poop – no need to say more!
Do you use props?
Yes, I love props! Once you know your theme or color theme, please let me know. I do have:
ONE letters made of wood, LED lights, or a cursive sign
Cake stands (blue, white, pink, wood slab, and gold)
Ruffle rompers for girls
Pink beaded necklace for girls (it’s a teether so it’s safe for babies)
Blue diaper cover with optional suspenders and bow tie for boys
Crates, various banners (just ask per your theme)
Lanterns, flowers, jungle vines, tiny pine trees, snowflakes
Variety of chairs and baskets for sitting babies in prior to the cake
Any props that I don't have, I ask for you to supply, particularly if you have a very specific color scheme or theme in mind.
The biggest tip regarding props is that my priority is to focus on your child, their smiles, and the cake action, not balloons or props.
What about balloons?
You supply any added balloons
If you choose to have balloons in your set up, please make sure they are round balloons. If you choose balloons that have to face a certain direction (like a large number 1) they never end up facing that direction during the session.
Either helium or regular
Balloons can have helium or not, it’s your personal preference. It’s fun either way to have balloons floating nearby or on the floor in the background. I do have some weights for securing helium balloons to the ground but bring your own if you have a particular one in mind.
Parent Tips
Plan to potentially get cake on your clothes
You may get some icing or cake on your clothing, especially at the end when cleaning up your child. Please consider wearing clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
Favorite snacks always help
Also, please bring some of your child’s favorite finger snacks, like puffs or cheerios. It’s extremely helpful before the cake for their nice photos to help them sit still. Then later I can stick some inside their cake to entice them to reach for it, especially if they don’t have interest in their cake. (Hey it happens!)
Have more questions? Or thinking of booking a cake smash session for your baby? Feel free to contact me to learn more about these unique offerings or discuss scheduling options.
