Miss Rachel Inspired Just for Your Little One
Every parent wants their child’s first birthday to be unforgettable. At Cake Smash Chicago, we specialize in turning these milestones into magical, joy-filled photo memories — and what better way to celebrate than with a Miss Rachel-inspired cake smash session?
Miss Rachel has become a household name among parents of babies and toddlers. Her engaging educational videos, colorful sets, and friendly demeanor have captured the hearts of little ones everywhere. So, it’s no surprise that parents are now requesting cake smash photo sessions inspired by her cheerful world — and we’re here for it!
As a Glenview-based baby photographer who’s worked with hundreds of families across the Chicagoland suburbs, I’m excited to share how we bring this special theme to life with a custom-designed set, baby-friendly props, and a stress-free experience for parents.
Whether you’re a long-time Miss Rachel fan or just looking for a bright, engaging theme for your baby’s first birthday photos, this post will walk you through everything you need to know about our Miss Rachel-inspired cake smash session — from why it works, what it includes, how to book, and even tips on what to wear.
Why a Miss Rachel-Inspired Cake Smash?
At this age, babies are drawn to vibrant colors, simple props, and familiarity. Miss Rachel is known for exactly that — bold visuals, clear communication, and songs that stick.
This theme works beautifully for a first birthday photo session because it keeps babies engaged while capturing their natural expressions, joy, and curiosity. Plus, it speaks to what most babies genuinely love and recognize from their daily routine.
Top Reasons Parents Love This Theme:
Recognizability: Babies light up when they see a set inspired by their favorite learning videos.
Timeless joy: The photos from this session are filled with genuine smiles — the kind that melt your heart.
What’s Included in the Miss Rachel Cake Smash Session
As with all of our custom cake smash packages, your experience includes so much more than just photos. We offer all-inclusive service — from set design to wardrobe, cake, cleanup, and final delivery of edited images. Here's what makes this session truly one-of-a-kind:
1. Custom Set Design
Inspired by Miss Rachel’s cheerful color palette and learning themes, the set is filled with bright pastels, educational accents (like letters and numbers), and whimsical textures. We can include visual nods to familiar props like a toy microphone, simple ABCs and 123s, or a bubblegum-colored backdrop reminiscent of her "Icky Sticky Bubblegum" song.
Miss Rachel inspired background is handcrafted and exclusive to Cake Smash Chicago — you won’t find generic backdrop here. Every detail is designed to photograph beautifully and match the birthday theme perfectly.
2. Coordinated Wardrobe
Don’t have the perfect outfit? No problem. Some of our packages includes an outfit for the cake smash portion of the session — usually in coordinating colors like light pink, blue, yellow, or rainbow hues. You’re welcome to bring extra outfits for portraits before the cake smash.
Need help deciding? I’ll send you a prep guide with wardrobe inspiration and best tips for outfits that pop on camera.
3. Delicious Custom Cake
Every smash session includes a cake made by a local baker who understands the importance of texture, color, and ingredients safe for babies. The cake is made soft and fluffy to encourage smashing and squishing — because messy is cute at this age!
We can match the cake to the Miss Rachel theme using her signature pastels, polka dots, or a playful design that echoes her music and learning style.
4. The Stress-Free Experience
At Cake Smash Chicago, we handle all the prep — so you don’t have to. You’ll walk into a warm, welcoming studio in Glenview, IL, where everything is ready to go. From wardrobe styling to cake to cleanup, you’ll get to enjoy your baby’s milestone without lifting a finger.
What to Expect During Your Session
Parents often ask: “How long does a cake smash session take?” or “What happens if my baby cries?” Here’s what the Miss Rachel-inspired session typically looks like — and how we make it smooth and fun for everyone.
Phase 1: Portraits
We start with classic portraits of your baby in their outfit before the cake. These images capture their personality, eye contact, and sweet smile — and they're often the ones that end up in your frames or on thank-you cards.
Optional: Add family portraits at the beginning if you've booked our Birthday Bash package.
Phase 2: Cake Smash
We bring out the custom cake and let your baby go to town! Some babies dive in. Others are cautious — but with the familiar, playful environment inspired by Miss Rachel, even shy little ones often warm up quickly.
I guide the shoot with a gentle, baby-led approach. There’s no pressure for “perfect” shots — just real joy.
Phase 3: Clean-Up Shots (Optional)
If you’ve chosen a package with a mini bath setup, we’ll end with splashy tub photos — bubbles and all. Not only are these photos adorable, but they also help clean off your baby in the cutest way possible.
Miss Rachel Theme: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own props?
You can — but you don’t have to. We already have plenty of props inspired by Miss Rachel’s vibe. If you have something meaningful (like a toy microphone or book your baby loves), you’re welcome to bring it.
Is this session only for girls?
Nope! This theme works for boys and girls alike. We tailor the set to your baby’s style and personality. From soft blues to sunny yellows and gentle pinks, we build a look that fits your little one.
What if my baby doesn’t smile?
Totally normal! I’ve photographed hundreds of babies and know how to engage even the shyest child. I’ve built my studio experience to be welcoming, calm, and baby-led. Plus, many little ones perk up when they hear Miss Rachel-style songs playing in the background!
Why Choose Cake Smash Chicago?
1. Glenview Baby Photography Expertise
As a trusted Glenview baby photographer, I’ve worked with families all over the North Shore and Chicagoland area. Clients come to my studio because they know they’ll get a thoughtful experience and beautiful results.
2. Unique Sets You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
Our Miss Rachel theme is built from scratch — no stock backdrops here. We’re always dreaming up new ideas, sourcing the best props, and handcrafting each set to match your vision. You’ll get photos that stand out and tell a story.
3. All-Inclusive Convenience
From outfit to cake to cleanup, everything is included in one flat fee. You won’t be running around trying to order from five different places. We’ve got you covered.
4. Customizable Packages
Choose from:
Birthday Bash – Includes portraits, cake smash, family photos, splash tub, and multiple outfits
Surprise Party – Portraits, cake smash, props, outfit included
Gathering – Short and sweet session focused only on the cake smash
Each package includes edited, high-resolution digital images ready for printing or sharing with friends and family.
What Clients Are Saying:
"We chose the Miss Rachel-inspired theme because our daughter is OBSESSED with her, and the session was everything we hoped for! Kate made it so easy — the set was adorable, the cake was perfect, and the pictures? STUNNING. We’ll treasure them forever.”
– Michelle P., Naperville, IL
“This was our second cake smash with Cake Smash Chicago, and it just keeps getting better. The Miss Rachel theme was genius. Bright, colorful, and so our baby's vibe. Kate made our baby feel at ease and captured every joyful moment.”
– Jeremy L., Highland Park, IL
How to Book Your Miss Rachel-Inspired Cake Smash Session
We only take a limited number of sessions each month to ensure each client gets our full attention and creativity.
📍 Location: 1926 Waukegan Rd, Suite 350, Glenview, IL
📧 Email: info@cakesmashchicago.com
📞 Phone: 847-489-3133
🌐 Website: www.cakesmashchicago.com
Booking Tips:
Let us know early if you want to include family or siblings
If your baby has allergies, we can work with our baker to adjust cake ingredients
Final Thoughts
Miss Rachel has helped millions of little ones speak their first words — and now, she’s inspiring first birthday celebrations, too.
If your baby lights up at the sound of “Open Shut Them” or dances to “Icky Sticky Bubble Gum,” this cake smash session is the perfect tribute to their favorite teacher and the incredible milestone of turning one.
Let’s create something magical together.
