In an era where uniqueness and personal connection reign supreme, personalised gifting has exploded into a £1.5 billion industry in the UK alone. From engraved jewellery to custom-printed socks, consumers increasingly crave products that reflect individuality – and nowhere is this trend sweeter than in the world of bespoke birthday cakes. Leading the charge is Big Day Cakes, whose new licenced Tom Gates photo cake designs are captivating families and redefining how we celebrate milestones.
Why Personalisation Is the Ultimate Gift
Personalised gifts aren’t just a fad – they’re a cultural shift. A 2023 survey by Etsy revealed that 78% of consumers believe custom-made items feel more meaningful than generic ones.
For children, this is amplified: a cake adorned with their face alongside beloved characters like Tom Gates transforms a treat into a cherished keepsake.
Big Day Cakes taps into this demand brilliantly. By merging licenced designs with photo personalisation, they’ve turned birthday cakes into interactive experiences. “Kids light up when they see themselves ‘starring’ alongside Tom Gates,” says ASDA bakery manager Sarah Connolly. “Parents love it because it’s effortless magic.”
Tom Gates: A British Icon Meets Edible Art
The Tom Gates series, written by Liz Pichon, has sold over 16 million copies worldwide, resonating with 7–12-year-olds who adore its doodle-filled, diary-style storytelling. Big Day Cakes’ collaboration with the franchise is a masterstroke. Their licenced designs feature Tom’s quirky illustrations, with spaces to slot in a child’s photo – making them the “main character” in Tom’s world.
How it works:
- In-store: Use the kiosk in ASDA’s bakery aisle to upload a photo, design the topper, and collect your cake within hours.
- Online: Order a printed topper (from £7.50) for next-day delivery, ideal for home bakers.
The process is designed for convenience: 89% of users in a trial group completed their design in under 5 minutes.
The Tech Behind the Trend
Big Day Cakes isn’t just riding the personalisation wave – it’s driving it. Founded in 2004 by Irish brothers Colm and Hugh Nohilly, the company holds patents for edible ink printing technology that ensures photos stay vibrant and food-safe. Their kiosks use a robust, kid-friendly interface (tested by over 1,000 families) to simplify the design process.
“We’ve eliminated the stress of traditional custom cakes,” says co-founder Colm Nohilly. “Parents want joy, not hassle.”
More Than Just Tom Gates: A Universe of Choices
While Tom Gates is the star, Big Day Cakes offers hundreds of designs, including Bing, CoComelon, and Premier League football teams. New licenses – think superheroes and animated hits – are added monthly. Prices are competitive:
- In-store cakes: £15 (medium), £19 (large)
- Online toppers: From £7.50 (small) to £8.50 (cupcake set)
Compare this to boutique bakeries, where custom designs often start at £40, and it’s clear why Big Day Cakes dominates the mass market.
The Social Media Effect
Personalised cakes are Instagram gold. A 2024 study by Sprout Social found that 62% of parents share birthday cake photos online, with personalised designs earning 3x more engagement. Big Day Cakes’ vibrant, photo-filled creations are tailor-made for viral moments – a win for brands and families alike.
Why This Matters for Modern Parents
Today’s parents juggle busy schedules but still crave meaningful traditions. Big Day Cakes bridges the gap by offering:
- Speed: Same-day in-store pickup or next-day topper delivery.
- Affordability: Premium personalisation without the price tag.
- Child Involvement: Kids can help design their cake, fostering creativity.
“My son insisted on adding his hamster to the Tom Gates design,” laughs London mum Priya Shah. “It was hilarious – and unforgettable.”
The Future of Gifting
As personalisation evolves, expect tech like AI-generated designs and augmented reality cake previews. Big Day Cakes hints at upcoming features, including animated toppers and themed digital invitations. For now, their formula – nostalgic licenses + seamless tech – is a recipe for success.
Final Slice
In a world of fleeting trends, personalised gifting endures because it speaks to our deepest desire: to feel seen. Big Day Cakes’ Tom Gates range isn’t just about sugar and sprinkles – it’s about creating moments that stick, long after the last crumb is gone.
Design your Tom Gates cake today at bigdaycakes.com or visit your nearest ASDA store. Follow #BigDayMoments on social media to see how families are celebrating!
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