The Big One Surfing Beach Cake Smash Session | Dublin, OH Cake Smash Photographer

The Big One!

It’s the “Big One,” people! I know, we’re in October and the weather’s turning chilly, but what better way to remember those glorious summer days than with some photos from this little dude’s surfing themed beach cake smash session?

I photographed this little surfer’s newborn and sitter sessions, so it was a treat to see him back in the studio. This family regularly travels over from Dublin, Ohio to get updated photos and capture special milestones. They are super sweet and laid back, and I love working with them!

Dad is a HUGE Cleveland Browns fan, so I was a little surprised he didn’t ask for that as a cake smash theme! Instead, Mom wanted something super fun, colorful, bright, and summer themed. The “Big One” surfing theme had a lot of possibilities for a cake smash, so we went with it. I had free rein in designing the set, as Mom didn’t have any specifics in mind. She told me she loves everything I do and fully trusted my creative process for his cake smash session.

Kickin’ Back on the Beach

As with all my cake smashes, I designed and created all the backdrops and props myself. The VW bus made a great add-on to our surfing themed beach cake smash. It’s a subtle nod to all the cool, retro vans and buses you see driving along the California coast. Oh, and fun fact: The sandy beach is actually eight pounds of crushed graham crackers!

Oh, and don’t overlook those awesome swim shorts! Mom saw them online and loved them, but couldn’t find them for purchase anywhere, so we decided on a different pair. But I couldn’t let it rest. I did some serious digging—and found them! Mom was shocked and so happy when they showed up for the “Big One” surfing beach cake smash session and I had the exact pair she’d wanted!

Ending with a Splash

The birthday boy had so much fun with his cake and got frosting everywhere! (Sorry, did I say frosting? I meant sea foam, obviously.) And, appropriately for a surfing smash, we ended our session with a splash! No cake smash is complete without tub time, and it gave little man the chance to ride some waves that were just right for him.

Have fun surfing through these first birthday cake smash photos!