Baby isn't old enough to remember her very first birthday celebration, but it's still fun to throw a memorable, themed bash to honor this big milestone! Here are various themes that experts and moms love for wishing baby a very happy first birthday.
Consider a Play on Words
"Do a play on words like 'Wild One,' 'Donut Grow Up,' or sweet to be one — which would be fruit or candy-themed. Or have a pineapple theme using a pineapple for the 'o' in one!" — Elizabeth Leahy, founder of party decor company Elizabeth Doo-Dah
Try Something Unexpected
"I love taking something unexpected and turning it into a theme for the first birthday party. Some of my favorites have been: Vintage Camp Out (think s'mores, patches, and vintage camp T-shirts); Pigs and Pancakes (piglet decor with a pancake breakfast served); Lumberjacks and Flapjacks (another theme with breakfast served plus plaid and wood accents); Old-Fashioned Carnival (carousels, hot dogs, peanuts, and bowler hats); CandyLand (this theme is always a huge hit with kids); Rockin' First Year (rock and roll theme with leather jackets, classic rock, drum sets, etc.)." — Gina Wade, entertaining and lifestyle expert and special events planner for Gina Wade Creative, Los Angeles, CA
Have an All-Ages Pool Party
"My baby will be 1 at the end of May, and we are doing a 'luau' theme. We're going to set up a little pool and have a barbecue. I think the first birthday party is more for the family than the kids."
Consider a Classic Theme
"'You Are My Sunshine' and 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar' — based on the Eric Carle book — are my favorites!"
Make It Small & Sweet
"We are doing a backyard barbecue with just close family and friends. The theme is butterflies and bubbles. All the kids will be getting bubble wands, and of course there will be a smash cake."
Go With Something Personal
"My husband nicknamed our baby 'dragon,' so his first birthday party is dragon-themed. My sister found this awesome site that shows how to put cupcakes into a dragon formation. I also found a vendor on Etsy who makes dragon cake toppers, so I am getting one for my son for his smash cake."
Keep It Simple
"Colors! At 1, your baby isn't really interested in anything elaborate. Save the themes for when he really has interests!"
*Disclaimer: The advice on Cafemom is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
