Cake Smash Prep Guide

Cake Smash Photo Sessions have to be one of my favorites!  They are the most fun session to be part of.  Babies love to explore, and this is the perfect way to celebrate their first birthday in style. Please review the tips below to ensure we get the most from our time together!

BABY REST:
Please be sure to have your child rested before our session.  Rested babies are happy babies. If your baby’s nap schedule has changed since booking the session, please reach out so we can change the time for photos. 

OUTFITS:
We will start with formal photos, saving cake smash for last, so please plan outfits accordingly.  If you have chosen to use an outfit from my client closet, please make sure you have given me your child’s clothing size prior to your session.

LOCATION:
If you have decided to do a studio cake smash, the address is 1320 Vermillion Street. Hastings MN. If you have chosen an outdoor session, I can make some recommendations of beautiful parks in the area.

THE CAKE:
Your session includes a cake in which I will order and provide from a reputable bakery. Normally a plain white cake is used since colored frosting can make quite a mess on the baby’s face and stain little fingers and outfits. If there are any special requests for the cake, please communicate those at least 2 weeks prior to your session. 

PLEASE do NOT let this be the first time your little one has sugar. Introduce your child to sugar at least a few days beforehand so they aren’t completely shocked by the sweetness when they get to the session. If it’s their first time, it tends to shock them a little and freak them out. You don’t have to overload your kiddo with sugar but at least introduce it to them a little in advance so they know what to expect when that frosting hits their tongue.

THE MESS:
Giving a cake to a baby does create a mess (which for this session equals success!) If doing a studio session, we will have a fresh bath ready here for when your little one is finished smashing. If doing an outdoor session, please make sure to bring LOTS of wipes or a damp towel for easier cleanup.

THINGS TO BRING ALONG  

  • Your baby’s outfit(s) Or communicate with me on client closet option.
  • A small toy to get baby’s attention.
  • A sippy cup or bottle of water (that frosting can be pretty sticky and babies like to have drink breaks)
  • WIPES – LOTS of wipes! 
  • Your baby’s favorite snack (such as puffs or cheerios) in case we need to stuff them into the cake to get your baby’s interest.
  • A change of clothes for the car ride home (for parents too) – not kidding 🙂

WHEN WILL I SEE MY PHOTOS?
Look for a sneak preview on my social media pages within 24 hours!  Within a week or 2 of your session, I will have your private online proofing gallery ready for selecting for your favorite images. You can also choose to purchase additional images through your gallery if you wish. Once your selections are made, you will be added to my editing queue and I will artistically hand edit those images. When the editing is complete, you will be able to download your final images and print them as you wish!

I’m looking forward to our time together! Don’t hesitate to reach out with any last minute questions or concerns.

612.440.3031

Warm regards,
Kristen