First Birthday Party: Part 1 – Invitations and Themes

By Jeanne Benedict

A new baby brings such joy each and every day with little milestones like smiling, clapping and crawling, all deserving of a celebration.

But when your baby turns one, it’s time to party!

Your baby’s First Birthday Party is a special occasion - so make the most of it with keepsake invitations, a charming theme, and a little friendly mom advice.

Follow our tips in First Birthday Party: Part 2 - Supplies and Decorations and Part 3 - Cakes for fun ideas based on the 5 popular themes listed below.

A Little Advice from Mom

As a new mom or dad, there’s no shortage of advice from well-intended veteran parents.

By the time a baby turns one, most new parents know how to handle words of wisdom, welcome or not, and inevitably, do what feels right for their family.

However, here are some things to think about when planning your baby’s First Birthday Party:

Consider the personality of your child when making up your guest list. Some babies are the life of the party, while others have “stranger anxiety” or simply prefer mom or dad. A lot of parents celebrate with an intimate group of friends at their child’s First Birthday Party to help ensure a happy experience for all – especially the guest of honor!

Save the rent-a-characters for older birthdays. Your child may love Elmo on TV, but an adult-size red furry character in real life may be scary.

Schedule the party when your child is at his or her best, not during their afternoon nap.

Stick with the familiar. Now is not the time to try something new, such as “baby’s first lollipop.”

Think about your personal “food rules” when deciding on your baby’s first birthday cake. Some parents don’t feed their children chocolate, known to be an “allergic” food, until the child is two years old. Many party hosts opt for carrot or applesauce cake.

Invitation Keepsakes

First Birthday Invitations from Tiny Prints

Even if you didn’t keep up with the baby book, you can turn your First Birthday invitation into the perfect memento of this special occasion with these ideas:

Attach a baby-themed charm, such as a booty or bottle, to the front of the invitation with ribbon. Request that guests bring a little jewelry charm to put on an heirloom first year charm bracelet.

Enclose a nice piece of paper in your invitation and request that guests write a passage for the child to appreciate in later years. Collect each guest’s paper at the party and put them in a scrapbook for all to see.

5 First Birthday Themes

Here’s a little glimpse of popular themes for your baby’s First Birthday Party. You’ll find the more details in Part 2 - Supplies and Decorations and sweet ideas in Part 3 - Cakes.

First Birthday High Chair Floor Mat and Tray Banner

1. You’re #1

Most babies are the center of their parents’ universe!

Celebrate with a “You’re #1” theme where everything from the balloons to the cake shouts "Baby’s First Birthday!" The best part about this theme is that there are many #1 decorations available at party stores.

2. Baby Chic

Today’s baby has a world of stylish options from nursery décor to couture clothing. Celebrate with a birthday party that incorporates contemporary designs as well as vintage styles!

3. Cuddly Friends

Host a comfy, cozy celebration with stuffed animals and activity blankets. Center the party around your baby’s favorite fuzzy characters like "Winnie the Pooh" and his friends or barnyard animals.

"1st Birthday Princess" Sippy Cup

4. Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales

Nursery rhymes and fairy tales have delighted many a baby at bedtime. A theme party based on a classic rhyme or tale is a lovely and familiar way to celebrate this occasion.

5. Animtated and Educational Favorites

Host a colorful celebration based on the "Baby Einstein" products or "Sesame Street" for a lively party full of animated favorites.

For more ideas, visit our Birthday Party page or post a question in my Forum.