Preparing for your Cake Smash Session

1. When should I schedule? Cake smash sessions are generally booked no more than a month before your child’s actual birthday.

2. Outfits: While my studio is stocked with many props and accessories, you will need to bring outfits for the session. We will begin your baby’s session with a few regular more formal portraits. Feel free to bring a separate outfit for this portion of the session. For the actual cake smash, boys look great in blue jeans paired with suspenders or a tie. A pair of leggings, a onesie and a cute hat will also do the trick. For girls, ruffled bottoms, leggings, pearls and a tutu are perfect. I do have a few tutu’s int the studio, but If you are in need of a tutu, please let me know. I work with a local creative maker who makes custom tutus for £20.00

3. The Cake: A cake is included in your session fee. I use two wonderful local cake makers, Ezziecakes. She is fully register and health checked, Also Louise from Lulu’s Bakery. I’ve sampled both their wonderful baking (its totes amaze). Giant cupcakes or small-tiered cakes photograph best. Remember, the baby will be smashing the cake into a thousand pieces. I recommend a design that would use butter cream or whipped cream frosting. Fondant is pretty but not easy to eat with your fingers.

4. Themes & Colours: We will discuss in great deal the theme at your pre-photoshoot consultation. In the mean time I suggested heading to Pinterest and get pinning. Choosing colours for a cake smash can be tough. I suggest choosing colours (or a theme) that matches the nursery or their birthday party theme. I will provide decorations that coordinate with your requested theme.

5. Before the Session: It is very possible that your baby will not like the taste or texture of the cake. I suggest buying your baby a little cupcake the week before to see how he or she reacts to playing in the icing and eating it. It will help them get used to the new food.

6. The Day Of : Don’t be alarmed if your baby doesn’t tear away at the frosting immediately. Some babies eat neatly while others dive right in. Some babies need a little assistance from mum or dad to figure out what to do. It is a process that should be exciting for both of you. Please be aware that not all babies enjoy smashing their cake and it is possible that your child will be unconsolable if that do not like it.

7. After the smashing part of the cake we will have tub time. I always say our cake smash clients go home clean, just full of sugar. You are welcome to bring swimwear for them to wear. Also please pack a towel to dry them off afterwards.

8. The Mess: Giving a cake to a baby surely makes a mess. My studio has a sink that you are welcomed to use, as well as baby changing facilities. Either way, I recommend bringing wipes, a towel and a change of clothing for the whole family.

9. Questions? Please don’t hesitate to ask me!