A first birthday party is really a thank-you to everyone who helped you through year one: grandparents, friends, neighbors and the little friends from playgroup. The invitation often becomes a keepsake too, so choose a design you’ll be happy to look back on.

Set the time around naps, then share the link with family near and far. Relatives who can’t make it can still open the invitation and leave a note with their reply, so the birthday messages end up in one place.

What to include

Baby’s name, and that they’re turning one
Date and a short party window, timed around naps
Venue and address, plus parking notes for strollers
Whether other little ones are welcome
Gift guidance or a “no gifts” note
An RSVP date

When to send it

Send first birthday invitations three to four weeks ahead, or six weeks if grandparents and family are traveling. Plan the party itself around naps: late morning or mid-afternoon works for most one-year-olds.

See the timeline for every occasion

Wording ideas

Sweet

Our little one is turning one! Join us to celebrate Mia’s first birthday Saturday, Aug 7 · 10 am to noon Grandma’s garden

Playful

Wild one alert! Oliver has survived a whole year of us. Come celebrate with cake he’ll mostly wear. Sunday, Sept 12 · 3 pm

Thank-you

A year of firsts, and you were part of it. Please join us for Ella’s first birthday Saturday, Nov 7 at 11 am

Questions, answered.

What time should a first birthday party be?

Work around naps. A two-hour window in the late morning, or mid-afternoon after the first nap, keeps the guest of honor cheerful through the cake.

How do I word gifts for a first birthday?

Babies need very little, so many parents write “No gifts, please. Your presence is plenty,” or invite guests to bring a favorite book for baby’s first library.

Can I add a photo?

Yes. Our photo designs have a space for your own picture, and you can also upload a design of your own. Location data is removed from photos when you upload them.

Planning guides

Birthday Invitation Wording: 40 Ideas for Every Age4 min read
When to Send Invitations: A Timeline for Every Occasion4 min read

More occasions

Kids’ birthday Baby shower Sip and see Birthday Gender reveal All categories