Use a lot of colors. It will make each cake unique and turn the lot into instant decorations for a party.
Don't think that sprinkles are cheesy. They can actually elevate the look.
Try artistic touches. Thin shreds of lemon or orange peel, candied lemon or orange peel, toasted coconut, candied ginger, and sugared rose petals are pretty flourishes. If using rose petals, lightly coat fresh, unsprayed ones with pasteurized egg whites, then sugar; let them dry before using.
Mix simple decorations with more elegant ones. Colorful sprinkles aren't lowbrow beside sifted cocoa.
Have fun with lighthearted toppings. Some of our favorites are chocolate jimmies, jelly beans, miniature M&Ms, miniature chocolate chips, peanuts, and chopped toffee, malted milk balls, or dark chocolate.