Cake smash sessions are seriously one of my favorite ways to celebrate your baby turning one. It’s messy, funny, and always ends up being such a good time — even when your babe wants nothing to do with the cake (it happens!).
Whether you’ve already booked your session or you’re just starting to plan, here’s everything you actually need to know — simple, realistic, and from someone who’s cleaned up a lot of icing over the years.
When it comes to cakes — less is more. Unless you’ve got your heart set on a specific theme or love going all out with details, keep it simple. A small buttercream cake photographs beautifully, and your baby will be the star of the show (not the sprinkles).
If you don’t have a baker yet, Publix is my top pick. Their mini buttercream cakes are adorable, delicious, and usually under $20. Just stick with light or pastel colors — darker icing (especially black or red) can stain skin and look rough in photos.
Not into cake? Totally fine! I’ve had families do donuts, muffins, cookies, even fruit. It all works.
And if your little one has allergies, check out vegan or specialty bakeries — they’ll help you create something safe and cute.
The Outfit
Let’s just say this now — whatever your baby wears will not survive the session. And that’s kind of the point.
A simple diaper cover, bubble romper, or overalls (no shirt underneath!) always look sweet and timeless. If you want to add something extra like a birthday hat or bow, that’s perfect — just make sure your babe has worn it at home first so it doesn’t totally throw them off during photos.
Definitely bring an extra outfit for after the smash. You’ll thank me when you’re not strapping a frosting-covered baby into the car seat.
Props & Decor
If you want to bring along something sentimental or fun to personalize your session — please do!
Things like:
- A birthday hat or crown
- A simple cake topper
- Balloons or a small banner
- Or anything that makes this milestone extra special to your family
I’ll style everything in a way that feels cohesive with your setup — so it still looks natural and timeless in photos. A little touch goes a long way!
Clean Up
I’ll handle the studio clean-up — you worry about your little one. Be sure to bring:
A fresh outfit for babe
A towel or burp cloth
A full pack of wipes (you’ll use more than you think)
That’s really it. We’ll tag-team the aftermath and get your baby cleaned up in no time.
A Few Last Things
Has your little one had sweets or messy textures before? If not, give them a “test cupcake” at home. Some babies dive in face-first, others barely touch it — both are totally normal.
Let go of expectations. Your baby might not smash the cake at all… or they might crawl straight through it. Either way, those real reactions are the best part.
Keep your cake cool. Try to pick it up last before your session and keep it out of the heat. A melted cake in the car is nobody’s idea of fun.
Cake smash sessions are such a fun way to celebrate this big milestone — full of personality, laughter, and sugar highs. I can’t wait to capture your little one just as they are in this sweet, fleeting stage.
💛 Leigh Ann
@laremkephoto