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First Birthday Party Theme: Surprise Bash!
by Emily Carter, Sep. 23, 2023
While I might logically understand that throwing a party for my daughter’s first birthday could be a questionable choice, I can’t simply let this significant milestone slip by unnoticed. Yes, there will be cake (a potential health risk, and let’s not even mention the fire risk). Expect a parade of well-meaning strangers eager to hold, hug, or otherwise annoy my little one. And of course, there will be an ample supply of alcohol—because let’s face it, I deserve a toast. I mean, she deserves a toast, right? That’s what I meant, isn’t it?
Through my extensive research, I’ve discovered that the most memorable first birthday celebrations are typically intimate gatherings, ideally set in a familiar space for the baby and scheduled at a time that won’t disrupt her routine. Sure, that sounds sensible, but this is not the moment for practicality. First birthdays are akin to New Year’s Eve—filled with hopeful fantasies and a pinch of denial. So, I plan to graciously overlook all the well-meaning suggestions in favor of planning a grand shindig that’s bound to be chaotic in every possible way.
For those of you who share my enthusiasm for extravagant celebrations, I’ve meticulously planned an event that might just inspire you. After all, isn’t pouring countless hours into organizing an event only to have it upended by a toddler’s whims the essence of parenting?
You’re Invited to Our Little One’s Surprise 1st Birthday!
- Occasion: Baby’s 1st birthday
- Theme: Surprise Bash!
- Time: Somewhere between naps. Perhaps 1 to 4 PM? Or 3 to 6 PM? Maybe even 3:30 to 6:30 PM, just to be safe? Any later, and we might clash with bedtime. Is it possible to just text you 15 minutes prior?
- Location: How do I say this tactfully? My home is a bit of a disaster zone since our little angel’s arrival. It’s the kind of place that a real estate agent would describe as “needing a great deal of imagination.” So, I’ll likely host the festivities at a nearby cafe or, even better, a bar.
Logistics:
I’ll handle the details of getting the birthday girl to the venue—I’ll probably tell her we’re on a fun little adventure! But please, no surprise shouts when we arrive; this will only lead to tears (and possibly a diaper emergency, but that’s a separate issue).
Guest List:
Everyone! Feel free to bring along partners, friends, and any other significant others. Kids are welcome on a case-by-case basis, but let’s aim for a 15-to-1 adult-to-child ratio. After much deliberation, I’ve decided to allow my husband’s ex-wife to join purely as an extra set of hands. I know, I can be quite generous at times!
Gift Suggestions:
Our daughter has developed a taste for wine (don’t judge; she just loves inspecting the bottles). Sauvignon blanc and dry riesling seem to be her favorites. Who knew?
Party Activities:
She’s thrilled with games like Hide-and-Seek with the TV remote and a Scavenger Hunt for Food on the Floor. We might even have a bonus round of “Bang on the Computer Keyboard”—first to delete an important file wins!
Reminder:
If you happen to speak with our daughter over the next two weeks, please keep the party a secret! We wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise. Also, if I bake a cake or purchase decorations, it might raise suspicions. It’s probably best if someone else manages that.
Final Thoughts:
Keep in mind that our little one won’t remember this celebration at all. In reality, it’s an opportunity for her father and me to pat ourselves on the back for surviving the first year of parenting. One year down, and our darling girl seems to be thriving (well, aside from the occasional bed-wetting and random tears). We’re doing great!
Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you there! For more parenting insights, be sure to check out this post on our blog. If you’re considering at-home insemination, visit Make a Mom for reliable insemination kits. Additionally, for anyone curious about fertility insurance, this resource is an excellent guide.
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