First Birthday Party Ideas for Girls & Boys

A first birthday is a celebration for the whole family. These first birthday party ideas help you choose a theme, plan simple decorations and send an invitation that sets the mood.

Pick a theme first

Starting with a theme makes every other choice easier: colors, cake, decorations and the invitation.

First birthday party ideas for girls

• Berry first / sweet one: strawberries, pink and gingham. See our strawberry first birthday invitations.
• Bows and florals: soft blush, ribbons and blooms with our bow first birthday invitations and floral designs.
• Unicorn or mermaid: pastel and magical, see unicorn invitations.

First birthday party ideas for boys

• Dinosaurs: pastel or colorful dinos with our dinosaur first birthday invitations.
• Rainbow: bright and gender-neutral, see rainbow invitations.

1st birthday party decoration ideas

Keep decorations simple and coordinated. A welcome sign at the door, cupcake toppers, favor tags and bottle labels in the same design make the room feel finished without much effort. Browse our kids party supplies and welcome signs.

Strawberry first birthday party ideas

Serve strawberries and pink treats, add gingham table linen and use "berry sweet" or "sweet one" wording on the invitation. Little details like matching labels tie it together.

Sending the invitation

Send first birthday invitations three to four weeks ahead. Our templates are edited in Canva: change the name, date and party details, then print at home, at a print shop or share digitally. Ready to start? Browse all 1st birthday invitations.