Hoping for some tips to help make this whole cake making process easier.

I am making a cake for DS' second birthday. A number 2 cake (original I know!) 2 of them actually - one for day care, one for home.

The plan is a number 2 cake, covered in fondant, with some fondant stars on top.
I have been told to get some rolled fondant, and a butter-cream icing to go between the cake and the fondant - is this correct? I hope so, as this is what I have done! I have also bought a fondant smoother, and star shape cutter...

I have some already the coloured fondant, and the butter-cream icing - and I am ok with the actually cake making part, but have no idea where to begin.

Can I bake the cake the day before I plan on doing the fondant? If I do, should I do the layer of butter-cream then or when I do the fondant.
If I do it when I bake the cake, how should I store it until I put the fondant on?

Any tips for getting the fondant on, or for making this whole process a little clearer or simpler?

Once its totally iced - I have been told not to put it in the fridge - is this correct?

HELP!