First Bee-Day Bash | Long Island Cake Smash Photographer

Some sessions are just meant to bee.

When I first spoke to Mom on the phone, I started to explain how custom sets work at the studio. “If you have a little girl,” I said, “maybe you're thinking yellow and bees?” It’s not something I usually suggest. Most parents go for pink or purple, mermaids or princesses. But on the other end of the line, there was a pause.

The perfect summer cake smash theme - first "beeday"

Then Mom said, “Funny you say that. Her theme is Bee-Day.”

It was one of those magical moments where everything aligns. I knew this set had to be something really special.

The Custom Set: From Invitation to Reality

Mom sent over her birthday invitation and I immediately loved the palette. Boho neutrals with soft golden honey tones. From there, the vision came to life. I ordered a custom backdrop with champagne-colored honeycomb, then worked with my designer to add floral and bee motifs in soft, neutral shades. Every element was handcrafted just for her: custom patterns, layered cutouts, oversized honeycombs, and delicate sparkle details.

The result was a bee-themed birthday set that felt sweet, modern, and full of personality. Just like what mom envisioned.

That "I can't believe I can eat all this cake" smile

The Studio Experience

My favorite part of any cake smash is when the parents walk in and see the set for the first time.

Mom and Dad were amazed. That moment - the excitement, the pride, the joy - is why I love what I do.

And our first birthday princess? She was the perfect little model. Curious, expressive, and full of first birthday charm. We captured every side of her sweet personality. Wide-eyed wonder, tiny smirks, cake-covered giggles, and even a few skeptical looks for good measure.

From the snaps (pre-cake portraits) to the smash (cake, cake and more cake) to the splash (her adorable tub finale), this session had it all.

The perfect bee-day cake smash set

The Bee-Day Set Style

• Soft neutrals and golden honey tones

• Custom honeycomb backdrop with floral and bee accents

• Coordinated outfits in pale yellow and gingham

• Subtle sparkle touches to tie it all together

Like all of my cake smash sessions, Elle’s experience was fully styled from start to finish. That includes outfits, set design, and a vanilla smash cake that

matched the vibe perfectly.

And yes, her family took home every element of the décor to use at her party. From the giant beehives to the balloon garland, it was party-ready perfection.

Final Thoughts

Elle’s Bee-Day was one for the books. Thoughtfully styled, full of personality, and grounded in the sweetest kind of serendipity.

If you’re planning your baby’s first birthday and want a session that feels just as meaningful, I’d love to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s bees, baseball, Beauty and the Beast, or something that hasn’t even been imagined yet, I’ll create a portrait-worthy celebration just for you.

✨ What theme would you choose for your baby’s first birthday?

If you're ready to book, just click HERE