A baby's first birthday is a monumental occasion, and celebrations range from intimate gatherings to themed blowouts that rival celebrity weddings. But the beautiful thing is, every family can choose their own adventure when it comes to kids birthday parties. Plenty of people share their party ideas on social media, which can be great for those who need a little inspiration. But those creators are also opening themselves up to criticism from keyboard warriors, and it isn't always pretty.
Rachel Gibbs posts on TikTok as @rachonlife, and recently shared plans for her daughter's first birthday party. We will admit that some of it may sound a bit unconventional, but Gibbs has been through this before with another child and realized precisely what she wanted for her daughter Hazel's celebration. Her unusual first birthday party plan was met with a lot of criticism, but this mom really doesn't care what others have to say.
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First things first, this party is going to take place on her baby's schedule.
If you've been to a baby's first birthday party, you know that it can make for a pretty crabby guest of honor if things aren't planned around meals and naps. Gibbs knows this and will have the party early, read 9:30 a.m.
"I don't want you at my house all day. I'm giving you your day. I do not expect you to sacrifice your entire Saturday for a child's birthday party who's not even gonna remember it," she explained.
Gibbs added that this will be a short affair.
"And the time? Please leave my house. My child needs to nap, and anybody who's coming to a 1-year-old's birthday party is already up at 9 30 a.m., or they can suck it up for one day because it's over at 11. You have your entire day," she says.
Party guests shouldn't expect much.
Gibbs won't be serving a meal, playing games, or doing much of anything for Hazel's birthday bash. She's been there and done that with a margarita and taco-themed fiesta for her toddler son, and it's not happening this go around. It will be Harry Potter-themed, and she will have some snacks and a ball pit, but that's about it.
Gibbs doesn't want gifts, either.
She said that she's picky about what kinds of toys and other gifts her children receive, so she doesn't want anyone to bring anything. "If you feel inclined to bring something, consider $5 because we're trying to remodel our backyard," she requested.
The video was met with a lot of criticism.
People weren't feeling Gibbs' vibe, and it sounded like a pretty lame party to a lot of people.
One person wrote: "Just don't even have a party. Everyone meet at a restaurant."
Others thought she was joking.
"Girl is this satire?" someone wondered. "Bring the baby no gifts but bring 5$ for your project ? Then the theme is Harry Potter bc YOU love Harry Potter bffr. Just take baby girl to the park n get a cupcake. Call it one."
This person just didn't get it: "i'm sorry i would not come like what is even the point?"
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Is the party about Hazel or her mom?
One person wrote, "Theme is about mom – no food, cake, drink, games or gifts – donate to landscaping budget – ummm, not about the child – all about the mommy."
Another added: "Harry Potter for a one year old??? Lame . 'I'm a huge Harry Potter nerd' ok but it's not about you ."
Gibbs clapped back, "It's 'The Chosen One' and her name is Hazel Paige (we call her HP) this is such a weird response."
She added in the comments the reason for the party was clear, "To celebrate our baby. With all the people who love her. With no stress or fuss of a big thing. Seems pretty simple?"
