Emilia’s First Birthday Cake Smash Session

Emilia

Elegant First Birthday Cake Smash

This session is adorable… even if I do say so myself! It’s elegant, girly, fun, and messy! The lacy outfit compliments Emilia’s creamy complexion, and the homemade, tired naked cake looks amazing! Emilia’s mother impressed my socks off when she told me she made it herself after watching a video on Pinterest!

Emilia has very discerning taste for someone so small. She loves frosting, whipped cream, and the blueberries she found tucked inside her cake. She had a very ladylike start, only breaking off a small handful of cake at a time to nibble on before coming back for more. I can tell her mom does a good job of keeping her clean because about halfway into the session Emilia wanted some wipes to clean her hands off! But even those with the best of intentions end up with cake on their face at some point. And hands. And legs. And feet. On mom, and on me. Amazingly, her outfit wasn’t covered in frosting even though since she almost crawled right over the top of her cake!

So, yes, it was a messy affair but well worth the effort. Plus, Emilia enjoyed her rinse in the kitchen sink almost as much as she enjoyed destroying her cake!

Emilia is one lucky little girl. Most of the props used during her first birthday cake smash session are decorations for her actual first birthday party which is just around the corner. From what I’ve heard it’s going to be an exciting day. Happy birthday, Emilia!

If you can see your family in moments like these—but the idea of making it happen feels a little overwhelming—I’ve got you. I’ll guide you every step of the way so it feels relaxed and natural, not forced.

Headshot of Theresa Pelser, an Erie-based family and newborn photographer.

I’m Theresa, a family photographer and mom of four based in Erie, Colorado.

I work with families who want photos that feel like real life—connected and true to who they are.

Whether you’re planning a cozy in-home session or heading outdoors, I bring a calm, encouraging presence and an eye for the moments that matter most.

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