A Happy First Birthday at the Beach
Little Mermaid Cake Smash
Surfs up, dude!
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We planned this session in one week… ONE week! It was just one of those sessions where it all came together and was just about perfect. This sweet girl has only been on the island for a short time, but getting to eat a rainbow cake (her first cake) on the beach is just about as lucky as one can get, right?
Cake Smash Welcome Guide
Congratulations, you made it through the first year! It’s been a year of amazing growth for you, mom, and your little one. Now it’s time to let loose and celebrate! Cake Smash sessions are so much fun!
I absolutely love everything about motherhood and babies. Rest easy knowing that I’m going to treat your little one like my own. I put my heart and soul into these sessions and I cannot thank you enough for trusting your birthday kid to me.
See you soon!
Ashleigh
L O C A T I O N
There are several options for session location - the beach, a field, your home, or in my studio. There is no right or wrong answer here; however, I recommend picking a location best fit for your child. If you know your child do not like sand, a beach smash might not be the best option.
T H E C A K E
Where to get the cake made?
Honestly, I've had amazing luck at supermarkets for simple cakes. You are more than welcome to make the cake yourself too!
I’ve ordered vegan cakes for my son with an egg allergy from Pu'uwai Aloha Bakery.
What size?
A round cake (8-10 inches) with two layers. You could also do a smaller cake with 4 layers or even a huge cupcake. If you tell the baker it's a "smash cake" they will help you pick the perfect size.
What about the middle?
The most important thing about your cake is that you get a white cake and avoid dark icing! Dark/chocolate cake tends to look, well, you can imagine what chocolate cake smashed everywhere looks like.
What about the top?
While not necessary, topper does add a little something to the pictures. You can make a little banner, get a glitter #1 candle or even add some fresh flowers to the top.
Do I have to do cake?
No! I set up powdered donuts on a cake stand for my son's birthday session. We could do watermelon, pie, ice cream, shave ice, etc.
I have several cake stands. Please let me know if you'd like to use one.
What to wear
Girls
I love little girls in rompers, “nice” dresses or tulle dresses. Don’t forget a diaper cover or bloomers!
Boys
I love little boys in overalls, jeans, knit shorts, or a diaper cover.
Don’t forget you can do a portrait outfit and a smash outfit!
What to bring checklist
portrait outfit
smash outfit
cake
towel(s) & a washcloth
baby wipes
a trash bag for cake clothes
a small, dry snack your baby likes if we need to fake a smash (like Puffs or Cheerios)
a lovie if your child has one