I'm a newbie to cake decorating and there is sooooo much to learn! I'll be making a cake with a fondant decoration that will need to be hard so it can stand as a topper. I'm also making cupcakes with fondant toppers, however I need them to keep their shape but still be soft to eat. How many days in advance can I make these?

Some people make their pieces and store them for years, like flowers. For your hard piece. You'll want to use gumpaste and it dries harder and sturdier. To make sure it's completely dry, make it a couple of weeks in advance. At least a week if you're short on time. Anything less, it might not be completely dry and break. A good hint is also to make a couple of pieces just in case your first one breaks.

You could always use modeling chocolate for your cupcakes.....it tastes great too!!!