A:  Not all cake artists/bakers are familiar with the tradition and that is why we are including simple instructions below: 

Insertion of charms into a baked cake
Insert the charm with the ribbons hanging outside between the layers of the baked cake or under the bottom layer of the baked cake.  Usually the baker places additional icing at the place of insertion.

Another easier method for an already purchased, decorated cake is to make vertical slits with a sharp knife along the outside layer/tier of the cake. Gently push the charm end of the ribbon into the cake, allowing the ribbons to drape. Touch up knife slit by rearranging the icing.

Q:  What if you want to have the tradition but you are not planning a cake for dessert?  Any suggestions?

A:  As a matter of fact, a cake is not needed to engage this custom.  Many of our customers have created other ways in which to display the charm ribbon pulls.  For example, a charm ribbon could be hidden under an individual dessert or within a cloth napkin at a place setting.    They can also be displayed in a crystal goblet, teacup, small vase, silver infant's cup, decorative centerpiece, Tussy-mussy holder, or any object of art.  On a more informal level, you can use a gardener's clay pot, wine glass, or coffee mug.   Let your imagination dictate.  Click on Presentation to see the display.

Q:  Do the charm pulls serve as a favor?  Or are they to be given to the guest of honor after the pulling event?

A:  Actually, the answer to both questions is a resounding YES!  Often our customers duplicate the purchase of charms so that the guest of honor is given a completed charm bracelet as a keepsake gift while the guests get to take home the charm they pulled which can later be attached to their own bracelet.  In the meantime, the single ribbon charm pull makes for a keepsake bookmark.  So you have gained a lovely keepsake gift, a "charming" experience and precious memories.

Q:  What happens if I want a charm I cannot find in your collection?

A:  Every effort will be made to fulfill a special request and create a message for the charm requested in character with Charming Traditions(TM) philosophy.

Q:  Is it safe to place these charms in a cake?

A:  Again, the charms are placed in a baked cake.  See directions on our website.  The danger is minimal given the charm is pulled before the cake is cut.  However, wrapping a small piece of clear plastic or foil over the charm before insertion into the cake would minimize any worry of a rogue charm.  Under no circumstances should a young child under age 3 handle these charms.

Q:  Is this tradition appropriate for a retirement party?

A:  Any moment worth celebrating with an intimate group of friends is perfect no matter what the celebratory reason.  Graduations, retirements, birthdays, christenings, baby showers, bridal showers, luncheons and weddings, bat mitzvahs, recoveries, confirmations, promotions, relocations, anniversaries, you name it - all great reasons to celebrate with Charming Traditions(TM) charm ribbon pulls.

Q:  Besides on a bracelet, do you have any other ideas to show off my charms?

A:  Attaching the charms to a silver linked necklace singly or in groupings or to a black cord necklace is very attractive.  The charms dangling from a silver pin and worn decoratively on a dress or suit are also a proud display of memories.