Planning a first birthday session is a special milestone for every family. And if you’re looking for a unique cake smash theme that stands out from the crowd, you’ve come to the right place. At our Carlsbad photography studio, located conveniently near San Diego, Encinitas, Oceanside, and Rancho Santa Fe, we specialize in creating one-of-a-kind cake smash sessions that are full of personality, style, and fun.
From whimsical to adventurous, our themed cake smashes go far beyond the typical balloons and banners. We design each set in-studio with hand-selected props, custom backdrops, and plenty of thoughtful details to match your baby’s personality and your family’s vision. Here are just a few of the creative themes we’ve brought to life that you probably haven’t seen before!
1. One Silly Goose Theme
This whimsical and playful theme is full of charm and personality! Featuring pastel geese and yellow flowers, the set is decked out in yellows, creams, and sage tones. We add in whimsical florals, balloon accents to complete the look. It’s perfect for babies with big laughs and curious expressions—and makes for absolutely adorable photos.
2. Jurassic Explorer
This set brings all the prehistoric fun in a baby-friendly way. With prehistoric dino relics, lush greenery, and a mini adventurer outfit for your little explorer, it’s a total hit with dinosaur fans. The set is fun, playful, and full of bright smiles—and we swear we even captured a few “RAWR!”s.
3. Winnie the Pooh’s Hundred Acre Woods
Our custom Pooh Bear-themed set features a backdrop of the Hundred Acre Woods, complete with honey pots, rustic fencing, and yellow and blue florals to match. Many parents choose this theme when their little one is sweet, cuddly, and full of classic charm. Add in a yellow dress or blue romper from our wardrobe collection, and the result is timeless.
4. Hot Air Balloon Dreams
Soft pastel balloons “floating” in the sky above your baby create an airy and dreamy set. We have a gorgeous hot air balloon backdrop and soft clouds to bring the theme to life. This setup is perfect for parents who want something light, joyful, and whimsical with a fresh look that photographs beautifully.
5. Strawberry – Berry Cute Theme
This delightfully sweet theme features soft pinks, bright reds, and white to create a charming strawberry patch vibe. Complete with strawberry baskets the set screams summer sweetness. It’s perfect for babies with sunny personalities, and you can dress your little one in gingham, soft rompers, or a berry-themed outfit to tie it all together. It’s a fresh take on fruit-themed birthdays that feels vibrant and timeless.
6. Korean Doljanchi Inspired
Celebrating heritage is always in style, and we love when families want to incorporate traditional Korean elements into the shoot. We do provide wardrobe for sessions, but often families will bring their own traditional Hanbok outfits from home. I love it when clients want pay homage to this beautiful first birthday tradition.
What Makes Our Studio Cake Smash Sessions Different?
- Custom Sets: We have 250 backdrop options and parents LOVE being able to choose sets that work for their baby.
- Wardrobe Options: Our studio includes a client closet with baby outfits that match our sets.
- Clean, Comfortable Studio: Our 1,200 sq. ft. studio in North County San Diego is fully sanitized and climate controlled for comfort and safety.
- Experienced with Littles: With 16 years of experience working with babies and toddlers, Stacey knows how to capture those perfect moments, even when baby is on the move!
- Family Pictures: I always encourage family photos during each one year session to commemorate this time!
FAQ: Unique Cake Smash Sessions
Q: Can I bring my own theme or props?
You don’t need to bring anything! I have 250 backdrops/themes to choose from. I have a beautiful studio full of all of the gorgeous props you see on my website. This is a full service photography studio and I love being able to spoil my clients by handing EVERY detail for you!
Q: What happens if my baby doesn’t like the cake?
We have backup tricks! From cheerios in the frosting to swapping in baby’s favorite snacks, we always keep sessions baby-friendly and flexible.
Q: Do you provide the cake?
YES! We work with a local bakery and your baby’s cake is included in every session.
Q: How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 4-6 weeks in advance to allow for custom set planning and outfit coordination.
Celebrate your baby’s big milestone in a one-of-a-kind way. If you’re in San Diego, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Encinitas, or Rancho Santa Fe, and you’re looking for a cake smash photographer who delivers creativity, comfort, and joy, we would love to create something magical for you.
Book your unique cake smash session today and let us bring your dream theme to life!
