Allow cake to sit for 5 minutes when you remove it from the oven. Pour half of the syrup over the cake and allow it to soak in. Remove cake from the pan and pour remainder of syrup on other side of cake. This cake can be covered with rolled fondant and decorated. Here's some pointers for those who are preparing to compete in a cake show for the first time.
Ideas can come from many sources other than cake decorating books.
Novelty designs can be found on cards, coloring books, even 'junk mail' gift catalogs. Special occasion cakes or tier cake designs can be found on cards, wallpaper patterns, and even clip-art. You may choose the challenge of trying a brand new technique, but don't overextend yourself. Be willing to make a few practice pieces first to master the technique before tackling it on your competition piece. Don't try to put every technique you know on the same cake.