I am wondering what companies have granted permission in the past and about how long of a time frame for a response? Any other advice on obtaining or purchasing permission to use a copyrighted image would be great. Thank You!

In my experience, Disney and Nickelodeon are big no-ways. Angry Birds can go either way. You'll probably have to check on a case-by-case basis. Just email the legal departments from each company. You can usually find the email address by searching on the contact sections on websites.

I assumed anything popular was out especially Disney. I lost three potential orders this month because I wouldn't do Sesamee St or Minnie Mouse and some one else would.
Oh well it won't be my but on the line. I have had a few request for Rainbow Bright, Tweety and Scooby Doo so I will attemt to contact the companies and see where I get with those.

I've had better luck starting with the PR department. Adidas, Ariat boots, Pearl drums, Pro Mark drumsticks, Evans drum heads, Rudy's BBQ, etc. all got back to me within a week. The main thing was to make sure I was clear about the specific use - they want to make sure it's not mass production. Single use, custom cakes haven't been a problem with most companies. Disney I wouldn't even try.

Thank you Nancy and Costumeczar. I'm pretty sure I saw a post once upon a time about a single use permission and photos could not be posted on the businesses website. Its always helpfull to know what others have encounterd along the way