There are two types of three layer cakes. One has dividers where you can put decorations in between the layers and the other is one layer stacked on top of each other. First decide which style of cake you'll be making. If you want to use dividers you can purchase them at a craft or cake supply stor. You'll still need cake boards and parchment paper. Maybe one of your local bakeries will sell you these items as craft stores usually sell each size in a package of five or so. Choose a cake recipe. Bake and freeze the cakes ahead of time. Frozen cakes are much easier to crumb coat and frost. Plus you won't be up till three in the morning if you screw up. Go to baking 911.com for information on the different types of frosting fondant, buttercream etc. I like to use a semi- opaque ribbon with a pattern for the borders. No cake decorating skills required and some thinner version of the same color ribbon for accents and use fresh flowers to add more color. Just be sure to tie a ribbon or some gee-gaw on the pin that holds the ribbon on the cake so it doesn't end up on somebody's plate.