As cake dummies can be pricey and you may want to have a carved cake you could always try making an replica of your cake out of things like card / newspaper etc. You could even cover it in paper masha. Then you will be able to keep it to look at, use for measurements and check sizes.
Making your figurines on a cocktail skewer is a great way to secure them on the cake. Also regarding the traveling never underestimate the power of royal icing. When dry it is like cake makers cement. Hope it all goes well. x
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