Smash Cake Session Guide
A helpful guide to prepare you and your little one for a fun, stress-free first birthday session! Some of the links are affiliate links where I earn a small commission for my tried and true recommendations.
What to Bring
Your session is designed to be as easy as possible — the smash cake is included (as long as there are no allergies). All you need to bring are a few essentials:
✔ 1–3 outfits
We’ll save the smash-cake outfit for last since it gets messy.
Feel free to send me photos of any outfits or inspiration you’re considering — I’ll help make sure the set design matches perfectly.
✔ Sippy cup with water
Cake time can make little ones thirsty.
✔ Small snacks
Puffs or Cheerios work great if we need to hide a few inside the cake to encourage tasting.
✔ Clean clothes for after the session
A quick change keeps everyone comfy for the ride home.
✔ Optional: A favorite toy
- This can help with comfort or attention during personality shots.
For non-allergy sessions, I provide a beautifully decorated, photo-ready smash cake sized perfectly for your little one.
If your child has any allergies:
- I cannot provide the cake for safety reasons, but I’m happy to recommend local bakers who can accommodate specific needs.
Personality Portraits (Clean White Background)
We always begin with clean “personality portraits” on a bright, simple white background — perfect for classic, timeless images before things get messy.
Here are some outfit ideas that look gorgeous on white:
For Girls:
– Birthday sweater
– Birthday girl dress
– Tulle dress
For Boys:
– Personalized sweater
– Neutral romper
Frequently Asked Questions
“What if my child doesn’t eat the cake?”
Totally normal!
Many one-year-olds:
- don’t care for icing
- don’t like getting messy
- only want to poke at it
- want nothing to do with it at first
Part of the fun is capturing their reaction — whatever it may be!
Whether they dive in or gently poke with one finger, we still get adorable photos.
“What if my child is hesitant?”
We ease them in! After we get a few photos of them with the cake presentation:
- we can cut open the back of the cake to expose the cake part (most kids prefer this over frosting),
- we can place a few favorite snacks inside the cake,
- or let them explore at their own pace.
Some babies love the sensory experience. Others prefer to stay clean. Both are completely normal!
“Do I need to bring toys?”
You’re welcome to bring a favorite toy to help keep them comfortable or grab their attention. I also have toys and tricks on hand.
“Can parents or siblings be in photos?”
Absolutely! If you’d like a quick family photo at the beginning, just let me know.
How to Prepare Your Child
1. Schedule around naps.
A well-rested one-year-old = a happier experience.
2. Bring them in comfortable clothing.
We can change into photo outfits once you’re here.
3. Bring comfort items.
A lovey or familiar toy can help shy babies warm up quickly.
4. Arrive a few minutes early.
This gives your child time to explore the space and get comfortable.
Final Notes
My goal is to make your smash cake session fun, relaxed, and memorable — capturing all the sweet little reactions, messy moments, and big personality your baby has at this age. Every child responds differently, and that’s part of what makes these sessions so special!