1st Birthday Parties Are Especially Exciting

Your child’s 1st birthday party is an exciting celebration. Whether you are planning something small or hosting a big affair, I have some great ideas and tips so that your child’s 1st birthday party is less stress on you and a wonderful time for your guests.

Guest List

Your list will more than likely have many more adults than children. You want the other parents to have a good time so get a sitter and have a playroom with creative activities and toys and maybe a few short DVD’s so the children will be well entertained.

Scheduling

You will want to schedule the party around your child’s normal routine. For many parents, this means mid or late afternoon, when their child gets up from their nap. This way, everyone will have a lot more time to have fun with the guest of honor.

Party Food

I am sure your year has been extremely busy, so take a break, and enjoy your child’s 1st birthday party! You need to have a simple menu, so consider serving the food buffet style. You can order food from a caterer, deli, or restaurant.

If you have items like sandwiches, gourmet wraps, potato salad and other sides, it will make your menu planning a breeze. You can also have a potluck and ask everyone to bring something to share. This way you do not have to make anything and everyone takes his or her dishes home so there is no clean up.

1st Birthday Decorations

Use a theme with two or three different colors. You can do a popular child’s theme, or just do a theme by color. If you go to a party store, you can look around and find something you like. You can get all the plates, cups, bowls, and napkins to match and even the balloons.

Location

Most parents choose to have the party in their home and this is wise. For a young child, the home is where they are most comfortable. They may be overly fussy if you choose a loud and chaotic fun house type of place.

You want the party to go smoothly and for your child to be happy so having the 1st birthday party in the home is the best plan. You will want to make sure your camera has plenty of film so that you will have lasting memories of your child’s 1st birthday.