1st Birthday Invitations & Decorations

Your child's first birthday is a significant milestone. It marks baby's first year and is wonderful to see just how much they have changed since birth. The first birthday party is always special.

You can make invitations unique to your child by including a picture on the front. Place your child's picture on one side, then make up your wording, indicating you are celebrating baby's first birthday. On the back side, be sure you tell guests who the birthday boy or girl is, the party time and date, the location with address and the RSVP deadline and contact information.

A theme party is a fun way to celebrate year #1. If you will have a theme party instead of decorations, integrate that in your invitation. Ensure that guests know that your little one loves Baby Einstein by using invitations including the Disney characters.

Guests should be given a 2-week advanced notice of the impending party. It makes things easier for the guests and you. Attendees can RSVP in plenty of time and you can purchase the appropriate amount of goodies.

Decorations, party favors and food will take some planning. Begin 4 weeks in advance to ensure you can plan the party with little or no stress. The best locations for this special birthday would include places with which, your baby is familiar. Home, a relative's house or the playground if the weather is warm can all be great locations for the party. Experts say the party should be kept under 2 hours to keep your child's interest, as well as that of other young children attending the party.

Babies are stimulated by bright colors, so get decorations that are bright and shiny. Decorations can highlight the first birthday or include the baby's favorite characters. You may personalize decorations by cutting out large #1's and including your child's picture on them. You may also want to provide a poster including several pictures of your child through the year and let guests write well wishes to the baby.

The first birthday cake will be a central feature at the party, however you may also want to provide other treats at the party, as well. Animal crackers are very popular with children, as are fruit bowls. You can provide cupcakes for smaller guests, as well. For the adults, consider providing more mature foods, such as cheese and crackers, fresh fruit and a veggie tray.

Great gift ideas for a 1-year-old include items that will continue to encourage growth and development. Give the birthday child bright toys that simulate the brain. You can also give toys that symbolize baby's favorite character.