The First Birthday - Need Help with Ways to Make It Memorable

Updated on March 11, 2010
G.K. asks from Grayslake, IL
4 answers

I have searched high and low and just can't seem to find the answers to my questions. I already know when and where the party will be (early April at a pizza place). I know who's going to be invited and I know what the theme is (about 50 adults and 20 kids and that's just family - fishies). But since he will never remember this day, I am trying to find ideas of how to make it special for him later. For example one cousin had us write letters to her daughter to be opened on her 21st birthday. Another had a list of topics and had us write advice on a topic for her daughter. These are cute, but I don't want to do something that's been done.

I found one suggestion of a table cloth (buy a plain one and fabric markers and have guests write on it) to be used at further birthdays. I'm considering this one.

I have also seen suggestions for a time capsule. I think this is more something we, as his parents, would do for him rather than being family participation. However, a twist I thought of on this one was to maybe make this what they bought gifts for (instead of toys and clothes he doesn't need). His golden birthday will be his 8th, but that's probably a hard age to buy for. Maybe his 21st?

I’ve seen suggestions of having people create a scrap book page, but I think that a little too much for a short party at a place other than home.

So, any suggestions of things I can have the guests do to provide him with memories?

One more question - Any suggestions on a gift that is memorable? I really don't want to buy him a toy that he will outgrow in a few months, break or not like.

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C.S.

answers from Chicago on

One thing that stuck out to me: don't put the burden on your guests. Having guests write letters to your future 21-year-old would be a task most wouldn't be up to.

Same thing for buying gifts for an older child. It's much more difficult for the guest to do that.

Why don't you do a photo slideshow with some great music for his first year of life? My sister made one for my daughter and I still love it. Burn it to a DVD and you've got a great memory!

The tablecloth idea is nice--and if you don't want all the extra "toys and clothes he doesn't need" tell your guests that no gifts are needed at his party. :) Some will still bring some, but some will welcome the chance to save some money. With fifty adults coming, you hardly need that much stuff. :)

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M.S.

answers from Chicago on

Make a DVD of his first year. Take pictures/ video footage put it to music. If you have the right software, it is very easy and fun.

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C.M.

answers from Chicago on

I think the table cloth to use at future parties is a great idea - wish I would've thought of that 10 years ago! LOVE it!

For my daughters first birthday we bought her a swingset for the back yard and a goldfish. Other memorable ideas may be a savings bond or start his college fund if you haven't already. I heard of someone starting a tool box for their child on their first birthday and giving him a new Craftsman tool every year for his birthday.

Good Luck & Have Fun!

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B.F.

answers from Chicago on

Do what I did: Forget to put film into your camera. You'll always remember that one.

PS: Once I realized my mistake we "recreated" the party a few days later and took some fun shots with friends and relatives. I don't think any harm was done, and as I said - I'll always remember it.

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