TO ASSEMBLE THE CAKES: Once each layer is cut in half, place the first layer on a cake plate with pieces of parchment paper under that first layer. This keeps the cake plate clean when you are frosting. Generously top the first layer with the frosting and then keep repeating until all layers are used. Because I used three 8" pans I ended up with a 5-layer cake and one left for another occasion. Once the cake is assembled finish frosting the sides and top making swirly decorations if you like. I topped the cake with some pretty purple pansies. I know this may sound like a tremendous amount of work, but if you just go step by step it really is not. And it is certainly well worth it. This is not an ordinary cake!