by Shauna Morris

Created on: July 18, 2009

Baby's 1st birthday- The do's and don'ts

Planning baby's big day is quite the task. The tips and ideas below will give you a good start and insiders knowledge on how to plan the perfect first birthday with minimal stress.

-Do plan ahead

Generally, 4-6 weeks is more than enough time to plan out a birthday party. Invitations should be mailed 2-3 weeks prior to the party.

Some foods can be prepared and frozen in advance as well. If your not buying the cake from a bakery, I would recommend making it about a week ahead of time and freezing.

The more you accomplish ahead of time the less pre-party minute stress you will have.

-Do get organized

Organization and preparation are the key ingredients to pulling off a great party.

Get out your pen and paper and start making those lists!

The following lists will help you keep everything on track:

-Guest List

-Menu

-Grocery List

-Decorations and party supplies list

-Overall to-do list (3-4 weeks, 1-2 weeks, night before and day of the party)

-If your having help with the party, make a list of duties assigned to each person.

-Do be creative and specific on the invites

Be sure to include the start and ending time for the party. This way, your guests won't plan on sticking around until the later evening hours if you do not wish them to do so.

You will also want to include directions to the party and any special instructions such as where to park.

Asking people to RSVP is a must if your planning on having a larger party.

-Do keep the guest list short

Keep your guest list to a minimum by sticking to babies closest friends, family, and perhaps some play-date friends. Sure, it's nice to receive lots of fun gifts, but you must also remember that children this age become overstimulated very easily. If there's too much going on around them, they may became fussy and not enjoy themselves.

-Do bargain shop

Local dollar stores are a great place to find deals on balloons, streamers and other basics needed.

Stores such as Sam's Club and GFS are great for buying bulk items such as paper plates and various food items that come in larger quantities at a discounted price.

Browse the internet as well for supplies and decorations, you may be surprised at what you find.

-Do keep the fun and games simple

Keep in mind that your child is turning one, and although her older cousin may have had tons of fun games at their birthday party, some of them may not be right for your child just yet.

Some ideas:

-bean bag toss

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