Celebrating your baby’s first birthday is a huge milestone—and what better way to commemorate it than with a cake smash session? This playful and memorable experience captures your little one’s curiosity and personality as they dive into their very own cake. Here’s what you need to know and how to prepare for this fun-filled session.
What is a Cake Smash Session?
A cake smash session is a photo shoot designed to celebrate your baby turning one. The star of the session (your baby!) is given a small cake to explore, taste, and smash—resulting in delightful photos that show their joy, surprise, and messy fun. These sessions are full of laughter, and the candid moments make for priceless memories.
I’ll work with you to create a custom setup that fits your theme or preferences, from colorful balloons and bunting to floral or minimalist designs. Whether you’re going for sweet and simple or bright and bold, this session is all about celebrating your baby’s big day!
How to Prepare for Your Cake Smash Session
- Choose Your Theme and Outfit
Start by deciding on a theme that reflects your baby’s personality or interests. Whether it’s a favorite character, a seasonal idea, or a classic color scheme, I’ll help incorporate your vision into the backdrop, props, and styling.
For your baby, choose an outfit that’s both cute and practical. Consider something easy to clean and remove, like a romper or tutu. Keep in mind that your little one might end up covered in cake! I have clothing options in my studio as well. - Pick the Right Cake
The cake is the centerpiece of the session, so it’s important to pick one that works well for smashing and eating. A small, soft, and lightly frosted cake is ideal. Avoid hard decorations like candy or fondant that could be difficult for your baby to handle. If your baby has allergies or dietary restrictions, let me know so we can plan accordingly. There is always the option for me to pick up the cake. - Prepare Your Baby
To help your baby feel comfortable, introduce them to the idea of playing with food beforehand. Let them touch or taste a small piece of cake or frosting at home. This helps them get used to the texture and makes the session more enjoyable.
Make sure your baby is well-rested and fed before the session—just not too full! A happy, rested baby will make for smoother photos. - Bring Essentials
Be sure to pack a few key items for the session, including:- A change of clothes for your baby (and maybe for you, too!)
- Wipes and towels for quick clean-ups
- Snacks or toys to keep your baby entertained between shots
- A sippy cup or water bottle to keep your little one hydrated
- Relax and Have Fun!
The best part of a cake smash session is letting your baby enjoy the moment. Don’t worry if they’re hesitant at first—it’s all part of the process. I’ll be there to capture every smile, curious glance, and messy handprint.
After the Session
After the session, you’ll receive your images within 10-14 days. Many families love using these photos for first birthday invitations, thank-you cards, or keepsakes.
Ready to book your cake smash session? Let’s create memories you’ll cherish for years to come!
Check out my butterfly cake smash session.
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