If your baby girl is turning one, it’s time to blink back the tears and find some girls’ first birthday party ideas. How do you plan, find a theme, and determine who will receive an invitation?
Before you get too carried away, be aware that your little one will love the attention but isn’t going to remember the party later on in life. First birthdays are more for family, friends, and the lucky parents. You can also take some great pictures to commemorate the day, so your child will always know how treasured they were.
Today, we’ve gathered 50 fun and unique ideas to celebrate your daughter’s first year on this planet.
50 Girl First Birthday Party Ideas
1. Unicorn Mayhem
Everyone loves unicorns, and there’s something fun for both young and old. You don’t need much more than themed cookies and lots of blue, pink, and purple colors for a unicorn bash. You can go all out by having the guests wear horns.
2. Dreamy Balloons
A dreamy balloon party is perfect if you have a good location. Get some decorative balloons in girly colors, then arrange them to create stunning effects.
Use a vintage-style cake cart, and place tables and chairs around for the guests. There are plenty of things to look at, and it all screams fun.
3. Simply Pink
If you want something simple that’s still incredibly beautiful, then try using pink and white. Use a white wall and place transparent balloons with pink confetti inside on a white table beside the cake. Decorate the wall with a sign and gold tassels — it will be like a pretty pink wonderland.
4. Butterfly Garden
Although I have a fear of butterflies, this one really stood out to me. Create a small butterfly garden using succulents, decorated rice crispy treats, and macaroons. Set up a table in the garden with lots of flowers, colored trays, and wooden baskets — your guests will love being outdoors.
5. Rose Gold Palooza
If you’re a fan of rose gold, then this will be a hit.
Get your hands on rose gold or golden columns to use as tables. Then, place a wall of balloons in colors ranging from gray to pink over a sign with your little one’s name on it. It’s simple yet looks extravagant.
6. Cowgirls
For fans of farm animals, this idea will take the cake. Create a small farm at your party by including cute cow-themed centerpieces — use popping colors for a child-friendly touch. You can even use fun farm-related games, like pin the tail on the donkey.
7. Moana Theme
My little one adores Moana, so this idea is at the top of my list. You can take this idea anywhere by either creating a beach setting or just using Moana-inspired decorations. You could even find a costume and maybe ask the guests to wear something beachy.
8. Princess Carousel
Take your little princess to new heights with this carousel theme. With lots of tulle, create a carriage-like background, and maybe place a vintage toy horse inside.
Use more tulle to set up a princess-worthy table with strategically placed balloons and lights for that finishing touch.
9. Sesame Street
Everyone loves Sesame Street, and you don’t need much to execute the idea. Use Sesame Street-inspired decorations like banners and serve cakes and cookies for the little Cookie Monsters in attendance. If you’re a good baker, you can easily bake them yourself.
10. Under the Sea
Take your little one and guests on a trip under the sea by creating a magical water-world setting. Use lots of balloons and flowers to recreate the bottom of the ocean. See if you can find sea-inspired decorations. And you’ll want a mermaid-inspired cake and cookies.
11. Buzzing with Joy
A bee-inspired birthday is great if you don’t want to drown in pink and purple. Instead, you get to use yellow, black, and white to style a small beehive for your little queen bee. All you need is a table to set up the cake and decorations for the room.
12. Coachella
This idea is adorable and adult-friendly too. Get out in the garden and set up a wall with bright colors and balloons. Use a long table and colorful plates and decorations. You could even set up a ball pit for the kids.
13. Basketball
If the birthday girl loves playing with basketballs, or perhaps her mom or dad are big fans, take a shot with this idea. Find basketball balloons and decorate a long table for the guests. Use associated colors like orange and black, along with pink and white.
14. Indoor Carnival
If you’re having the party indoors, why not get some food carts and a giant balloon wall? Set up a few tables facing the front of the room where the balloons and cakes are. Use fun colors like blue, pink, and white — it’s fantastic for snapping memorable and Instagram-worthy pictures.
15. Fairytale Party
With an enchanted forest-colored green background and giant pastel-colored balloons, you can quickly find yourself in a fairytale.
Arrange a few small tables in front of the background where you can take photos of your little one. Place all the desserts there for the guests to enjoy—this idea can be used both indoors and outdoors.
16. Girly Dinosaurs
Dinosaurs are often a theme for boys’ parties, but why can’t girls enjoy them too? With lots of green plants, set up a small Jurassic world of pink and yellow dinosaurs. Arrange a few balloons for the finishing touches and be ready for some a-roar-able photos.
17. Winter “One”derland Smash Cake Session
Arrange a winter wonderland for your toddler by setting up small decorative Christmas trees on a snow-like carpet. Then let your little one smash the cake — but remember to bring another one for the guests.
18. Winter Party at Home
If you only want a small party with close family, then all you need is a nicely decorated living room and a theme. We love this idea of incorporating Christmas and first birthdays if your little one was born in December. Arrange balloons and perhaps set up a small table with cake and drinks.
19. Let it Snow
Another winter idea is an icy, “Let it Snow” theme. Decorate a table with small Christmas trees and your cake. You can use large vases for snacks like popcorn and rice-crispy treats.
20. She’s a Wild One
This idea is simple, but it’s fantastic if the birthday girl is already toddling around. All you need is a good location, a table, some balloons, and a “Wild One” background.
21. Hot Air Balloon
If you’ve got the room and budget, this hot air balloon-inspired idea is magical. Create a hot air balloon where the basket is the table for the cake. Use white balloons in different sizes for the clouds — your guests will be sitting in awe, and it’s one to remember.
22. Care Bears
With lots of colors and cute bears, this Care Bears idea is great for a first birthday party. Most of the adults at the party will have watched the show while growing up, making it fun for everyone. You only need Care Bears decorations and a rainbow cake.
23. Llama Fun
Here’s something a little different — a llama-inspired party. It’s a good pick during summer when you can host it in the garden. Arrange a small tent, tables, and the cake — decorate with balloons and succulents. Then, don’t forget about the llama! Use large stuffed toys for the garden and a figurine for the cake.
24. All the Places You Will Go
After their first birthday, time will fly — all of a sudden, they’re out the door. Try a travel-themed party with a passport cake decorated with airplanes and suitcases.
25. Sprinkles
Another idea that’s excellent for a smash cake party is sprinkles. Set up a white background and arrange sprinkle-shaped balloons in different colors. Then, let your little one dig into a cake full of sprinkles.
26. Music to My Ears
Decorated sugar cookies are perfect for a first birthday party. These music-inspired ones can spark a whole theme with instrument-styled decorations and lots of music for guests to dance to.
27. Golden Girl
Arrange a golden background with balloons and a table full of fabulous cakes and desserts. This theme is princess-worthy with flowers and vases full of sweets.
28. Circles Are Best
Try something different by only using circle-shaped decorations. Set up a round background with your little one’s name on it. Then decorate with balloons, and add tables with cake and sweets.
29. Ballerina
For a little ballerina in the making, we suggest this idea. Use a cutout of a ballerina, then have a table set with tulle to resemble her tutu. Arrange lights and balloons for some stunning effects.
30. Minnie Mouse
Get inspired by Minnie Mouse, and set up a small party with big black ears and polka dot bows. Place stuffed Minnie Mouse toys around the room, and don’t forget about the pink cake.
31. Alice in “One”derland
Recreate Alice in Wonderland by arranging a One-derland for the birthday girl. You can use a green background and flower crowns to create an indoor garden for photos.
Channel your inner Mad Hatter and serve tea and cake for the guests. You could even have some tarts in case the Queen of Hearts turns up!
32. Do-Nut Get Older
Who doesn’t love a good donut, so why not create a donut-themed party? We love this idea of setting up a table before a wooden background that’s decorated with donut balloons and letters. Laden the table with your desserts, and don’t forget the donut jokes — “Donut worry, be happy.”
33. Carnival Spectacular
If you love carnivals and want to go all out, check out this idea. Place a table in front of a carnival-inspired background with curtains, big balloons, and loads of color. Use a shimmery cloth to cover the table, and symmetrically arrange your themed cake and desserts.
34. Get Your Ticket
Set up a small ticket stand for your little one where you and the guests can take photos. You can take this idea in almost any direction, such as a circus. Arrange everything in the garden and organize some games for the guests.
35. Patisserie
This idea inspires you to create a small patisserie for your little one. It’s fun and adorable, and your guests will love tasting the delicious French pastries.
36. Autumn Birthday
If the birthday fits the season, try a fall-inspired party. Decorate with leaves, flowers, and lights. Stick to orange, green, and purple colors, and set up everything before a white background.
37. Swan Lake
Try a classy but outdoorsy theme like swans if you can arrange the party by a lake. Create a little oasis with tents, balloons, candles, and stuffed toy swans. The background of the lake and the light colors are perfect for memorable photos.
38. In the Barn
For something rustic-chic, excuse the animals from the barn for the day and replace them with balloons and cake. Set up a cart and a high chair for the birthday girl.
39. One In a Melon
Get inspired by watermelons and sugar cookies. This idea is fantastic for summer. Decorate your location with green and pink balloons, and organize party games for the guests.
40. Flower Power
Create a memorable party by using lots of stunning flower decorations. Get a giant initial letter filled with flowers, then decorate the cake with petals. Use soft colors that complement nature.
41. Cake Party
Get your guests drooling by setting up a gorgeous table with all the cakes and desserts. Use flowers and green plants as decorations, and create a sign with your little one’s name.
42. Cupcake Dreams
Cupcakes are always winners at parties, so why not center your theme around them? You can arrange a table full of cupcakes, even some for your little one to smash. Use balloons and flowers for decorations.
43. Garden Party
Set up small tables and picnic blankets for this party idea in the garden. You can arrange a tent for the birthday girl, and don’t forget about the cake table.
44. Ball Pit Fun
Toddlers love ball pits, so if you have the room, set up several ball pits at the party. It’s super fun and ideal if other small children are attending. All you need are some kiddie pools and lots of balls.
45. Teepee Chic
Another outdoor idea is a teepee party. Arrange different teepees for the children and picnic blankets for adults. Set up a table with cake and use balloons for a last touch of fun.
46. Baby Elephant
For a baby-elephant-inspired birthday, stick to colors like white and gray. Decorate party hats and tables with balloons, ribbons, and cutouts of baby elephants.
47. Forest Animals
We’re calling all the animals of the forest, and inviting them to this birthday. Arrange a table with green plants and flowers. Use stuffed toys or cut-outs of animals like deer, foxes, and raccoons to decorate with.
48. On the Farm
Set up a small farm-inspired party in your backyard. You can use haystacks as tables and stuffed farm animals for decorations. For a fun game, get a piñata the guests can help smash.
49. Horse Lovers
For horse lovers, take a closer look at this idea. Set up a small place in the garden with horse-inspired foods and decorations. Arrange banners, tassels, and fun games for the guests.
50. Mermaid Party
Mermaid parties are adorable, especially when you can create a magical setting. Use balloons and banners to make your own underwater world. You could even go all out and fill the room with transparent balloons to resemble bubbles.
Tips for Throwing a First Birthday
1. Arrange a Time
Many parents plan long first birthday parties. However, with small children, it’s best to keep them brief, mainly because they probably won’t remember much of it.
Two hours is an excellent time to shoot for. This gives you ample time for some games, opening presents, and serving the cake. Before the party, create a flexible schedule that you can work with to get things ready.
Naptime
2. Guests
Be mindful of how many people you’re inviting. Too many could make your little one shy or uncomfortable, which can lead to tantrums and meltdowns.
If you invite kids of different ages, plan small activities they can engage in like drawing or painting.
3. Focus on Photos
You want lots of pretty photos of the birthday girl, so a good idea is to plan picture time before the guests arrive at the beginning of the party. Then that’s out of the way, and your little one can enjoy her party.
But make sure to take momentous photos throughout the party of them getting cake on their face or playing with siblings, cousins, or friends.
4. Know Your Theme
Deciding on a theme can also keep you organized. You know which decorations to buy and have a clear image of what you’re trying to create. Even if you’re doing something small, decide whether it’s pretty in pink or minimalistic white and greens.
You can check out YouTube videos to get more ideas for your theme.
5. Ask for Help
Unless you’re Superwoman, don’t try to do everything yourself. Enlist help from family and friends or hire the pros.
If you’re too stressed, it can affect your experience and how much fun your child has (2).
FAQs
What Themes are Trending For a Girl’s First Birthday?
Popular themes include floral, princess, fairy, and animal motifs. Choose a theme that reflects your child’s personality or something they enjoy.
How Important is a Baby’s First Birthday?
A baby’s first birthday is a significant milestone marking the end of the first year of growth and development. It’s more about celebrating the parents’ journey too.
What Food is Good For a 1-Year-Old’s Birthday Party?
Choose simple, easy-to-eat foods like fruit slices, cheese cubes, and small sandwiches for a one-year-old’s birthday party. Ensure the food is safe for little ones and consider any allergies.
Can Babies Eat Cake On Their First Birthday?
Yes, babies can eat cake on their first birthday, but in moderation. You can opt for a healthy cake alternative or a small portion of a regular cake for the baby to enjoy.
What is the Best Gift For a 1-Year-Old Baby Girl?
For a one-year-old girl, go for gifts that promote learning and development, such as educational toys, books, or musical instruments suitable for her age.
How Do I Prepare My 1-Year-Old For Their Birthday Party?
You can prepare your one-year-old for their birthday party by ensuring they’re well-rested and fed before the party. Familiarize them with the party space and keep the atmosphere calm and happy.
What Do You Wear to a Baby’s First Birthday Party?
Dress your baby comfortably in something cute but practical. When choosing an outfit, consider the party theme and location.
