You’ve got a couple of easy options:

• DIY at home: Browse character-themed cake decorations on our site—think toppers, banners, and cupcake picks. Pair them with a sheet cake or cupcakes for a quick, themed look without special ordering.
• Order from a local bakery: Many stores accept custom cake orders, but designs and lead times vary by location. It’s a good idea to check your store’s bakery page or call ahead to ask about available themes and pickup windows.

If you’re short on time, consider ready-to-ship decorations that may be eligible for pickup or delivery. Availability can vary by store and date, so planning a few days ahead often helps.

Many of our stores offer custom cakes, and some locations can create character-inspired designs. Because selection and timelines vary by bakery, the best next step is to contact your local store to discuss current options, ordering windows, and pickup dates.

• Check availability: Call your store’s bakery or view the bakery page for details.
• DIY alternative: You can also build a themed cake at home using character toppers, banners, and cupcake picks from our site.

Design choices, order cutoffs, and decorations can differ by location. Reaching out early gives you the most flexibility.

We’re seeing a mix of fun, budget-friendly looks this year that you can recreate with items on our site:

• Edible images: Personalized photos or graphics printed on wafer paper or frosting sheets for a custom finish.
• Minimalist buttercream + acrylic toppers: Clean frosting with a mirrored or metallic topper for a modern vibe.
• Mini heart cakes: Individual cakes baked in small pans with lids for favors or take-home treats.
• Fiesta details: Bright palettes and banner-style toppers for festive celebrations.
• Tropical sets: Shells and florals for beachy summer parties.
• Action themes: Motorsports and adventure toppers for high-energy birthdays.
• Rainbows and stars: Colorful arcs with celestial accents for a playful finish.

Mix and match to fit your style. Results vary by skill and materials.

You can create a space‑adventure cake at home with a few simple steps:

• Base cake: Start with a frosted round or sheet cake.
• Galaxy backdrop: Use dark buttercream or edible spray and add star sprinkles for a night‑sky effect.
• Color palette: Incorporate greens, purples, and white to echo a space‑ranger look.
• Top it off: Add character‑themed toppers or an edible image printed on wafer paper. A simple “Happy Birthday” topper adds height and shine.
• Little details: Cupcake picks, banner toppers, or sugar stars add dimension.

Remove non‑edible pieces before serving and follow packaging instructions for any decorations. These ideas can help you get the look, but techniques and outcomes vary by tools and experience.

A few quick checks can help you decorate confidently:

• Look for labels: Choose items marked “edible,” “food-contact safe,” or “for cake use.” Follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Use barriers for non‑edibles: If a topper isn’t labeled for direct contact, place it on a small fondant pad or parchment circle so it doesn’t touch the frosting.
• Clean before use: Wash reusable acrylic or plastic toppers with mild soap and dry thoroughly before placing on the cake.
• Edible images: Use a dedicated, food‑only printer with edible inks and store sheets sealed and dry per the package guidance.
• Serve safely: Remove small parts before slicing, especially for young kids. When in doubt, consult the product’s instructions.

Practices can vary by product, so rely on the manufacturer’s guidance for best results.