Hi!

I'm looking for suggestions on what I can do for my son's 1st birthday party...specifically location. Our home is just too small for all those people to be stuffed in it in January. I would have had it in a park or something, but of course, its in January so that won't work! Also, being that its right after Christmas (January 10th is his birthday), I am looking for inexpensive ideas as well. I'm not going to get too crazy this year (since he won't know the difference), but I do want to do something different and fun - hopefully!

Also, any ideas/suggestions on themes, games, favors, decorations, etc. would be great! I'm pretty creative, but I tend to build my ideas off of others and I love to hear of other people's creativity!

My DS just turned one and my advice is KISS - Keep it Simple, Silly.  Really, they are ONE year old and don't know the difference if you spend a ton of money or not.  I bought a couple of balloons and put up origami cranes that I made myself.  We had cupcakes and a few presents.  Only family came (and we have a small family).  If your little one is not used to being around a big crowd, they might honestly be happier with fewer people.  But of course it's hard to shoo away well wishers.  Just use your best judgement

- Don't quote me on that

http://www.babyplannerblog.com

Best thing we've done for any birthday (mine's 3 now) is open the presents early. Then there's no need to keep any of the kids entertained (meaning no games). They're busy playing with the new toys! It also helps keep some of the adults busy assembling things :-)

"That's what she said."

Ron Paul 2012

Try "Open House" style. Pick a set of times around naptime and that way you don't have to worry about occupying everyone. They really just want to come see the little one, steal a hug or two and eat cake. Cupcakes work great. As for favors or anything we alway print a few wallet size pictures taken shortly before the party and send them home as gifts. I promise no one will complain!

inethalynne

I also believe in keeping it simple.  Closest family, a few friends.  One year-olds are still babies.  Sometimes their sleep schedules are erratic, in which case they might miss the whole party.  Sometimes they don't have a set schedule, in which case you don't know which kid will show up, the adorable happy friendly one, or the cranky one who needs a nap!

My best advice is to keep it small, and to not expect too much out of your little one.  He/she won't "get it", might be overwhelmed, might be underwhelmed, might think it's the best thing ever, might think it's torture.  I also like to wait until most of the guests have left before opening presents.  Babies don't always "ooh" and "aah" at the things that great-aunts and grandmothers want them to...better to tell them in a thank-you how much your child loved the gift than to have them disappointed by the reaction.

check out the free cakes places like Acme and Shoprite (maybe more) have for 1st b-days. you just need a birth cert.