I am planning my daughter's first birthday, and I'm looking for ideas. The party will be the end of September, and be a mix of couples and kids- ages 10 months to 5 years old (mostly babies, though). I haven't been to many birthday parties for young kids, so beyond a cake and presents, I'm stuck. Any ideas for age appropriate favors? Or do I even need favors? What can I do for food that works well for adults and kids? I want to do something nice that isn't over the top or terribly expensive. I welcome your ideas! =)
Hi Caryn -
I have a 2 and 3 1/2 year old. We learned to keep things low key for birthday #1. We had roasted chicken (from Sam's - no cooking involved), some sides and a cake. We ordered a separate cake for the birthday child so no one had to eat what they had played with. Although I really don't think you need favors, bubbles seem to go over well with all ages. If they cannot blow them on their own, they can have a parents help. Both my kids always enjoy balloons so our main decoration was balloons. We ordered 2 dozen with long strings and they all loved crawling/walking through the balloon forest. If you get good ones, they can even last for a week or so after the party. Each child guest can also take one home if they like too. Just make sure you don't give away all of your child's favorite color. If at all possible, schedule things around your child's routine as much as possible. I learned after the first party to do that so you don't have a very unhappy birthday girl.
Hope this helps a little and try to enjoy the day, it only comes once!
Lisa B.
The only advice I have is on the food. You can't go wrong with pizza. Have fun at the party.
Alicia
Hi, Caryn! My little boy is turning 1 tomorrow so we have a birthday party planned this weekend. I'm so excited! We're just having family over (although that makes 25) and plan on having a big meal, cake and presents. Rather than doing Elmo or SpongeBob or something like that, we are making the cakes something he loves -- cell phones and remote controls! So far, the very idea has made everyone in the family laugh. Oh, and we're having pulled pork for dinner. Easy but tasty!
Good luck with your party! Don't make it too crazy on yourself ...