Not my design, but can't remember where I copied this from (sorry). Five layers. One two layer on bottom with appropriate supports and three-layer on top. Buttercream with fondant accents. I used a styrofoam board and hammered in two dowels about 3" apart, all the way into the styrofoam for extra support. Same with candle, poked two toothpicks in bottom and stuck it into the foam board.