Birthday Cake

I made this cake for my hubby's cousin.  It is a white cake with a lemon filling and vanilla frosting.  The wording and detail actually looked like a brighter yellow than what is showing up in these pictures.  The top is edged in chocolate curls.  I've tried making them before and I just cant seem to get the hang of them.  These turned out out okay and even look kinda pretty with the ruffled edges, like I meant to do it! :)  But, uh, I was going for the smooth look, oh well!  If anyone has experience in making them and could offer up a few tips, I would totally appreciate that! Definitely not the most well done cake, but hey, not bad for a beginner, huh?  Thanks for being my guinea pig Tami! :)