The first year is an emotional roller-coaster for new parents, and it all culminates in Baby’s 1st birthday. Wondering how to celebrate?

If you believe Instagram or Pinterest, the only way to do it is with a perfectly planned, colour-coordinated extravaganza.

Believe us when we say it’s not worth the stress.

If you try too hard to make Baby’s 1st birthday perfect, neither you nor your little one will end up having a good time. And that’s what it’s all about, right?

Taking a moment to enjoy your amazing achievement. So instead, here are 6 simple ways to make Baby’s 1st birthday meaningful and unique. 

1) GET THE PHOTOS DONE RIGHT

Don’t rely on your phone camera for this one! Book a studio session with a professional photographer who’s known for working with wee ones. Get a proper family portrait done and while you’re at it, why not have a cake smash session? Giving Baby a fun activity for their shoot helps them to relax and makes for truly adorable candid snaps.

2) GIVE BABY A NEW FIRST EXPERIENCE

When Baby is just a year old, there are still so many things you haven’t had a chance to do together. Maybe Baby has never seen the sea, or perhaps you guys have never been to the zoo. Pick a place that you loved when you were young and take Baby to experience it for the first time. You’ll relive your precious memories through a fresh new set of eyes.  

3) WRITE A LETTER TO BABY

You have so much you want to say to Baby, but they’re too young yet to understand the fullness of your love. Put it all into a letter which they can open when they’re older, perhaps when they’re 10 or 18 years old. To make it extra special, pop a photo into the envelope that Baby will never have seen before. In fact, why not start a new tradition and write a letter every year?

4) PLANT A TREE

Make a living memory with Baby. Head to the garden centre and pick out a tree together (whichever one Baby seems to smile at the most!). Bring Baby’s new tree friend home and find them a permanent spot in the garden. The tree will grow tall and strong alongside Baby, sheltering your little one while they play. Take a photo of them together each year to compare how much they’ve grown. 

5) GO OUT FOR DINNER (WITHOUT BABY!)

Let’s face it, Baby’s not even going to remember their 1st Birthday. This milestone is not just for your child but also for you, you amazing person. You’ve done something wonderful and incredibly tough – you deserve a reward! And now that Baby is older, you can start doing things without them every once in a while. So go on, book that fancy dinner and get all dressed up. You’ve earned it and then some.

6) KEEP THE PARTY SIMPLE

Parties aren’t essential for 1-year-old Babies. And like we said at the start, they can be stressful! But sometimes you can’t resist throwing one anyway. Don’t get in over your head, though. Keep the celebrations simple and don’t go overboard with fancy food or fussy decorations. How about a potluck or a back garden barbecue? The less you stress, the happier Baby will be and the more time you’ll have to party together!

Are you looking for Baby’s 1st birthday present? Explore our range of beautifully-made, personalised baby gifts, from customised clothes and shoes to toys and accessories.