Decorations are an important part of the first birthday party.
First birthday parties bring family and friends together to celebrate one of the big milestones in a child's life. Rushing around at the last minute gathering all of the first birthday supplies is stressful. Create a checklist for yourself at least a month before the party to make sure you have everything on hand. The checklist helps you stay organized so you can enjoy the party you worked so hard to plan. Does this Spark an idea?
Invitations
You'll find a variety of first birthday party invitations at party supply stores. If you're going with a theme, choose the invitations that match the themed decorations. Another option is to make your own party invitations. Cut a number one from a piece of card stock in a color that matches the party decorations for a simple homemade invitation. Add glitter, sequins, ribbon or other embellishments to dress up the invitations. Send out the first birthday party invitations out several weeks before the party to give everyone plenty of time to put it on their schedules.
Tableware
A tablecloth that matches the party color scheme protects the table. It also helps the food table and guest tables look coordinated with the rest of the party decorations. Many first birthday party decoration sets include themed tablecloths. You'll also need plates, plastic silverware and napkins for the party if you're serving food. Include smaller plates for the cake.
Decorations
The decorations make the first birthday party an inviting location for all of the guests. Refer to the party theme when selecting the decorations. Because the birthday child is only one, don't worry about going too crazy with decorations. Helium-filled balloons are always a hit with one year old kids. They enjoy batting around the balloons. Order balloon bouquets for centerpieces on the tables. Wall decorations also add a pleasing look to the birthday party area. Look for coordinating wall decorations with the other birthday party supplies.
Camera
The camera is key to a first birthday party. Make sure the batteries are charged and ready to go for the camera. Keep a backup set of batteries just in case something happens with original batteries. If you have a digital camera, make sure there is plenty of room on the video card. A video camera is also useful for the party if you have one available. Assign someone else the task of recording the party so you can focus on keeping everything running smoothly.
Favors
Put together some simple favors for the party guests. Keep in mind the ages of the guests. If most of the children are also in the one year old range, choose toys that won't cause choking hazards such as large balls or finger puppets. A picture book or a bottle of bubbles also works well for kids of all ages.
Tags: birthday party, first birthday, first birthday party, party invitations, before party