The Ultimate First Birthday Party Checklist (Stress-free Planning Guide)
Planning your baby's first birthday is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between choosing a theme, booking photo's and figuring out what your child should wear, it's easy to miss details.
This first birthday party checklist walks you through everything you need, step by step, so you can celebrate confidently and enjoy the moment.
- Choose a First Birthday Theme (8-10 weeks before
Start with a simple theme that photographs well and feels timeless. Popular first birthday theme includes:
- ONE-derful
- Sweet ONE
- Wild ONE
2. Order the Birthday Outfit Early (6-8 weeks before)
Your baby's outfit is one of the most important details of the day-especially for cake smash photos and keepsake memories.
When choosing a first birthday outfit, look for:
-Personalized name and age option
-Comfortable, breathable fabrics
-Styles that match your theme and colors
*Pro Tip: Custom outfits should always be ordered early to allow time for personalization and delivery
3. Plan the Cake Smash (4-6 weeks before)
Smash cake photos are often the highlight of a first birthday. Decide whether you'll:
-Hire a photographer
-Do a DIY photo setup at home
-Include the cake smash during the party
Checklist:
-Smash Cake
-Smash Cake t-shirt (match theme)
-High chair or blanket setup
-Wipes & towel
4. Send Invitations (3-4 weeks before)
You can choose:
-Digital Invitations (quick and easy)
-Printed Invitations (great keepsakes)
5. Decor & Party Details (2-3 weeks before)
Focus on a few statement pieces instead of overdoing it:
-Balloon garland or backdrop
-Coordination tableware
-Cake topper
Keep decor colors aligned with outfit for beautiful photos,
6. Capture the Memories
Don't forget:
-Close ups of embroidery and outfit details
-Family photos
-Cake smash reactions
-Candid moments
Final Thoughts
Your baby's first birthday is about celebrating a milestone, not perfection. Planning ahead and choosing meaningful details, like a custom birthday outfit, allows you to enjoy the day without stress.
Explore our custom first birthday outfits and themes:
www.shopecdembroidery.com/collections/classics
