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Following Seas Photography

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Aiea, HI 96701
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Following Seas Photography

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Cake Smash Welcome Guide

October 22, 2020 Ashleigh Lauber
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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 

O U T D O O R S M A S H

Hawaii provides the perfect backdrop for your cake smash. I keep outdoor smashes very simple. From experience, balloons don’t look great as it can get windy, especially at the beach. A blanket, cake stand and a cute topper are really all we need.


M Y  H O M E   S T U D I O


I started my business after my first son was born. Because it was important to me to do something that I love that also allowed
me to maximize time with my boys, I decided to keep my studio in my home. 

My home studio is located in Aiea. The address is included in the email this document came in. 

You are more than welcome to park out front (on the street) during our session.

 

T H E    S E T

I like to keep sets simple so that your birthday baby can be the main focus. 
 

Background paper 

While I tend to stick with my signature white, let me know if you're interested in another color. 

props, banners, balloons, oh my! 

Here are some ideas to get your juices flowing. I recommend at least 6 balloons and a banner of at least 4-5 feet. 

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T H E    C A K E

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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! If your child has an allergy, I can share a great vegan bakery.  

What size? 

A round cake (I think 12 inches is the biggest I've done) looks best 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. I’ve also seen adorable fruit cakes on Pinterest that would be perfect for a tropical smash. We could do watermelon, pie, ice cream, etc. 
 

I have several cake stands you can use. Please let me know if you'd like me to send you pictures of what I have.

 

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What to wear

Girls

I love little girls in tutus, ruffle rompers, dresses, or diaper covers. I have a few items in my client closet you are more than welcome to borrow. Please make sure you have a plan to cover their diaper. A Lei po’o is also an adorable touch.

boys

I love little boys in overalls, jeans, knit shorts, or a diaper cover. I have a few items in my client closet you are welcome to borrow. 

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What to bring checklist

portrait outfit
smash outfit
towel(s) & a washcloth
baby wipes
a trash bag for cake clothes
a small, dry snack your baby likes (like Puffs or Cheerios)
a lovie if your child has one   

In Tips & Tricks Tags cake smash, milestone, studio cake smash, Charleston, West Ashley photographer, west ashley newborn photography, west ashley photograper, west ashley, charleston photographer, north charleston, Johns Island, James Island, Daniel Island, mount pleasant, wando, ladson, Hanahan, summerville, goose creek, monks corner
← Family Session at Kualoa Regional Park Hollywood Movie Tour at Kualoa Ranch | Hawaii →
 

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Copyright 2024 | Following Seas Photography | ashleigh@followingseasphotography.com
Specializing in maternity, newborn, baby and family portraits in Amelia Island, Florida and Saint Marys, Georgia.
Kings Bay, Kingsland, Saint Marys, Jacksonville, Yulee, Fernandina Beach