I ordered my cake for the California Grill for our anniversary. I am absolutely scared now. I have loved all of the designs I have seen Brian do, but everyone talks about how detailed their emails with him get and he basically said they couldn't do one thing (which I completely understand because the characters don't go together, it was a shot in the dark anyway) and then said they could do a mad hatter style in blah blah size for blah blah and to call the cake hotline. So now I am worried he doesn't really want to do it and it won't be exciting for DH. I saw another cake with an alice in wonderland (DH loves the cheshire cat) theme and wasn't impressed (I don't think Brian did it) I am sure I am just being neurotic here, but I want my DH to LOVE this cake. I was hoping that by leaving it mostly up to Brian that it would be more creative but now I am scared I didn't have a solid enough idea. Anyway I am rambling
I sympathize with where you're at ... my first plan wasn't doable either ... and it took a few emails between Brian and I to work out a second option. (To be honest, I was getting a bit frazzled, but it did all work out.
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I approached it as "I would like this idea, but do with it what you think is best" and then took his suggestions under consideration. Some things I liked, others I didn't, and so it was another round of emails. In the end, my theme is pretty generic "tools and mickey heads, clean/geometric style, no flowers" and I've left the creativity part to Brian. (That way, I get a bit of a surprise too.)
If you've seen the Mad Hatter style cakes (see Post 2 on this thread if you haven't) and like them, then you'll probably like what Brian puts together for you. That said, if there's something you definitely don't want (a particular color for example) make sure to send him another email to let him know. Also, if there is a particular Mad Hatter cake (or aspect of one) that you like alot, download a photo and attach it to an email explaining what it is that you particularly like.
Hope this helps ... I can't wait to see my dad's cake next week!
Ok, I just figured someone else would be responding to the emails in the mean time. We leave for our trip on August 12th, so I'm sure that will be plenty of time to communicate what I want. Once we hit the road, we will no longer have internet access.Thanks for your help!
I'm not sure if someone else would be or not ... I'm new to this whole cake business myself!
And, when I placed the order officially with Private Dining, they did take my cell number to pass on if Brian had further questions. (I also won't have internet access once we leave home.)
You have to call the main phone number and ask to be transferred. (407) 824-1000
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But, just to clarify ... with HMT it's a character integrity thing not a licensing thing. They can't do edible 3D Handy Manny Tools ... the 2D screen printed ones are apparently fine. That said, it gets pricey if you want the Tools separate (that is, not in a single group picture).
I've seen the adorable chocolate slippers with the mousse inside, and that might be an option, too, although he might not appreciate a slipper for his manly 50th bday! 
