Birthday Cake vs. Birthday Cupcakes (or both?)

Since I've taken responsibility of the party, I'm trying to figure out if it makes more sense to get a cake or to go the cupcake route.  Luckily, I was able to contact an old high-school friend who has way more knowledge regarding the dessert options than I do.  My friend owns Desserts Divine and she was able to give me direction.  After discussing the intangibles with her, we've decided on going with a small cake for our son to be able to blow out some candles with and for the adults to be able to eat.  Additionally, we are going to have cupcakes for the little kids.  Eliana (of Desserts Divine) was actually able to provide some basic "pirate-themed" examples of how the desserts might look and I've posted the photos below.  Unfortunately, she said that there are no J&TNLP-themed cake toppers or decorations, so she will have to be creative with the cake and cupcakes.  I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what magic she can pull off!