How to Throw The Perfect 1st Birthday Party At Home

In celebration of founder Mary Micucci’s granddaughters recent first birthday, we’re sharing party planning tips and tricks for throwing a stress-free party at your home.

Read on for tips about party design, food, decor, DIY, and more!20170513A_0271One of the most critical aspects of a great party is FOOD! Getting the food right to appease picky children as well as satisfy more refined adult tastes is important for any party you’re planning.20170513A_0075It’s always a good idea to go with what’s simple, yet delicious  – kids and adults alike will go for a cheese and charcuterie board, grilled or raw veggies, and anything seasonal or that’s a family favorite is perfect for the occasion!

A great way to commemorate a special day and moment in your child’s life is by creating a photo album birthday book… Guests can snap a photo with the birthday girl or boy, and write a celebratory message.

Set up a photo album/memory book station with a book, markers and stickers, Polaroid or  disposable cameras, and allow guests to create their own unique memory!20170513A_0318 While we all love and live on social media, nothing replaces a real photo and a handwritten note.20170513A_0360Here’s an obvious – but often overlooked – tip: Even though this is technically a birthday party for “babies,” don’t neglect the parents! We know kids are a lot of work, and having a cocktail or glass of wine ready and waiting for when they have a free moment will make all the difference for your of-age guests… Make sure to be stocked with a mix of under and over-21 beverages to satisfy the little AND big kids.

20170513A_0271Take a page out of our book, and go for a refreshing twist on the classic lemonade by making it strawberry mint!

Don’t forget to consider the space you’re working with when you’re planning the party! Incorporate natural elements to merge the indoor/outdoor vibe, and maximize the area by spacing out the focal points of the party to create an inviting atmosphere and flow.20170513A_0295Offering more than one dessert option for guests to choose from is the easiest way to ensure everyone’s happy – and if you’re trying to plan your party on a budget, you can always bake these yourself. While cake is a birthday celebration signature, cookies are an easy treat for kids to grab and go.

Hopefully these tips make your planning run smoothly and help your party turn out lovely! If you have other ideas or advice to share, do share it in a comment.