Our tips for organizing your baby's first birthday party!
Oh, joy — the apple of your eye is about to celebrate their very first birthday! This milestone also marks your entry into parenthood and therefore deserves a celebration worthy of the name. Charlie Crane shares all its secrets for blowing out that first candle serenely and joyfully.
(c) Fringe and Frange
Is it worth organising a first birthday party?
Of course! Even if your child is still very young and not fully aware of everything, they will still notice the festive atmosphere and the presence of their loved ones, gathered together for them. This celebration is just as meaningful for you as a parent, and will help create beautiful memories for your family photo album.
When should you organise your baby's birthday party?
We recommend planning this party on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon at teatime, after the nap. Your child should be well-rested enough to socialise, eat a slice of cake, open their presents… and play with the wrapping paper.
How many people should you invite?
You can choose to invite family, friends, or the parents from nursery.
Bear in mind: your child will feel more at ease in a calm atmosphere with familiar faces. Your home remains the best place to host this party, as your child will feel more reassured in a familiar environment. From a practical standpoint, home is also ideal, as you'll have your changing table and everything you need for nappy changes close to hand.
Our tip: the aim of this first birthday is not to throw a wild party, but to have a lovely celebration with your nearest and dearest — so no stress or tears!
Where to find decorations for the birthday party?
When it comes to a party, decoration is key. You can choose a theme (nautical, pirate, magic, animals, circus…) or simply a few guiding colours. We spotted some lovely ideas on Pinterest to inspire you. We've also listed three websites where you can find beautiful decorations. Don't forget balloons, which will always delight the little ones:
What menu should you plan for a birthday tea?
Of course, the cake is a must — just adapt it to your child's age. Say goodbye to hard elements like nougatine or caramel, and hello to soft biscuits, mousses, fruit compotes, sponge fingers… Don't forget the candle to blow out, which will fascinate your baby. Plan lightly sweetened drinks for the little ones and a few glasses of champagne for the grown-ups, soft drinks for expectant mothers… Add some fruit, compotes, and savoury snacks. Be mindful of sugar and sweets, which are not recommended for very young children. You're all set.
What activities should you plan for a one-year-old baby?
Treasure hunts can wait a little longer… In the meantime, your baby will mostly need your arms and your presence. You can plan nursery rhymes to sing and mime, small activities such as finger painting, modelling clay, salt dough, and building games. If you have the option, you could even call on an entertainer or a babysitter. Perfect for a little puppet show!
What gifts should you give a one-year-old baby?
Gifts suited to their 12–18 month age range: wooden toys, stacking towers, building games, a ride-on toy, books, a little play kitchen set… Don't hesitate to guide your guests so you don't end up with twelve thousand new cuddly toys. If you're sending an invitation, you can even add a link to a few gift ideas. Guests will inevitably arrive with their arms full, so you might as well make it easy for them while making sure you receive what you truly want and need.
Head over to Pinterest to discover all our birthday inspirations.
