The first birthday is the first big milestone, and most people celebrate by baking and eating cake. But a first birthday party isn’t just a special day — it’s a celebration of your baby’s big change into toddlerhood. And capturing these moments in photos is a good way to share your memories with friends and family, and remind yourself of all the fun you had with your little one during the first year of their life.
We’ve gathered some tips for capturing the messy, colorful celebration of your child’s first birthday party.
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1. Start early
Planning a first birthday party can be a stressful experience. If you’re planning for a large crowd, you’ll need to start early. It’s recommended to plan for a party between six months and two years after your baby’s birth. The earlier you plan, the easier it will be to get the decorations ready, make invitations, and get a feel for how much space you’ll need.
2. Have a theme
First birthday parties can be anything from a themed party like Princess and Pirate, to a more casual affair. Whatever you decide on, be sure to incorporate the colors, characters, and themes you love into the decor. This can help you create an atmosphere that your guests will feel comfortable and at home in.
3. Consider your space
If you have room in your home for a large gathering, you can consider renting out a restaurant or club. Or, you can create a smaller, but more intimate, space in your home. Whatever your plan is, make sure there are plenty of tables and chairs for your guests. It’s always a good idea to plan on extra plates and napkins, as well as more chairs and tables than you think you’ll actually need.
4. Decorate
Make your first birthday party unique by decorating your venue in a way that makes you feel at home. Think about what colors, patterns, and styles you enjoy. If you’re going for a specific theme, choose elements to match your theme. For example, if you’re going for a Disney-inspired party, put posters up on the walls or create a special tablecloth that looks like a castle.
5. Play music
Playing music throughout the party can help your guests have a great time. Whether you play upbeat songs like “Happy Birthday” or “Funkytown,” or slower, more somber tunes like “Crying Time” by The Beatles or “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M., find some music that matches the vibe of your party.
6. Let your guests dance
Everyone likes to dance, so make sure to provide a dance floor for your guests to enjoy. If you’d like, you can even bring in a DJ and offer some music and dancing.
7. Invite some props
Have your guests dress up in fun ways. It will be fun for your guests to be able to dress up as their favorite characters from your party’s theme. Or, if your theme includes food, have some fun props around. You can make ice cream cones, build a sandcastle, and even make a special birthday cake.
8. Let your guest know
Send out some save the dates and party invitations as soon as you start planning your first birthday party. Your guests will appreciate knowing what’s in store for them on the big day.
9. Plan for snacks and drinks
It’s important to make sure you have a plan for how to feed your guests throughout the party. You may want to provide snacks like chips and dip, fruit, or small plates of finger food. Or, if your party is more low-key, you may want to provide a few beverages such as sodas, juices, and water.
10. Serve alcohol
Although not required, it’s a good idea to serve alcohol to your guests. It’s the best way to relax your guests and make sure they stay hydrated. You can ask your guests to bring their own glassware, or buy some if they don’t have any.
11. Enjoy the party
You spent a lot of time and effort planning your first birthday party, so you’ll want to make the most of it. Remember to take pictures, eat some delicious food, and dance to the music you chose.