Guide to 1st Birthday Party Ideas on a Budget

Planning 1st birthday party ideas on a budget can be both fun and fulfilling. With a little creativity and some budget-friendly ideas, you can throw a memorable celebration that won't cost a fortune. From DIY decorations to affordable party favors, we've got you covered. So put on your party planning hat and get ready to celebrate your baby's first year in style, without blowing your budget.

Homemade 1st Birthday Cake Idea

Fun, Easy 1st Birthday Party Ideas On A Budget

Here are some tips to help you plan a memorable first birthday celebration without breaking the bank.  Remember that the most important thing is to celebrate your child's first birthday with loved ones.  Focus on creating happy memories rather than on extravagant details.  Let's party on a budget! 

Set a budget and stick to it.

Start by determining how much you can afford to spend on the birthday party. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending. Break down your budget into categories such as venue rental, decorations, food and drinks, entertainment, party favors, and any other expenses you may have. Prioritize your spending, deciding what elements of the party are most important to you and allocate more of your budget to those items.

Keep track of your expenses as you plan the party to ensure you are staying within your budget. If you find that you are exceeding your budget in one category, look for areas where you can cut back or adjust accordingly. Review after the party is over to see how well you stuck to your budget. Use this information to help plan future events and adjust your budgeting strategies as needed.

Plan ahead.

Avoid last-minute stress and rushing to organize the party by planning early.  Allow plenty of time to ensure that everything is taken care of in advance.  You then have time to compare prices, find deals, and receive any ordered goods.  Overall, planning early for a 1st birthday party can help ensure a successful and enjoyable celebration for the host and their guests.

Make Your Own 1st Birthday Cupcakes

Invitations.

If you are on a tight budget, consider making your own invitations. There are many templates available online to help you create personalized and inexpensive invites. We love using Canva, quick and easy.  Another option is Zazzle, budget friendly invitations. 

Keep your guest list small.

Inviting fewer guests means a more practical price tag. Limiting the number of guests will help you save on food, decorations, and party favors. Consider inviting close family members and friends only.

Party supplies.

Choose a budget-friendly theme. Opt for a simple and easy-to-execute theme that doesn't require expensive decorations or costumes. Select a color scheme, remembering that solid party supplies are less expensive. If you can't resist your favorite theme, mix and match---using solid plates with themed centered napkins.

Take Green To The Extreme

Shop for 1st Birthday Party Ideas on a Budget.

Shop and compare prices: Compare prices online and at different stores to find the best deals on party supplies, decorations, and food. For example, Amazon carries unique and trendy items that can add a special touch to your party without costing a fortune.  

Party at home.

At this age, it's easier and cheaper to party at home.  If you can't or don't want to have the party at home, consider local parks, playgrounds, zoos, community centers, or maybe Grandma's house.

Don't party at meal time.

When planning your party, it's important to consider the timing of the event.  One common mistake that people on a budget make is scheduling a party during meal-time.  Then you have the added expense of feeding your guests a meal.  It's financially best to schedule your party anywhere from 2pm - 4pm.  Then you can serve simple snacks and finger foods such as cheerios, goldfish, cookies, or ice cream in treat cups.  Treat guests to these party foods on a budget.

Serve Ice Cream In Decorative Cups

How to decorate for a birthday party on a budget.

Decorating for a 1st birthday party can be exciting, but it can also become expensive.  If you're looking to host a memorable celebration without breaking the bank, don't worry - it's possible!  From DIY decorations to repurposing items you already have, there are plenty of ways to make your space look festive without spending a fortune.  You can throw a fabulous event without the hefty price tag. 

Paper lanterns and tissue paper pompoms.
Paper lantern and pompom decorations are an easy and affordable way to elevate your décor. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a versatile option for your party.  Add a playful and festive touch by adding a pop of color with these budget-friendly decorations..

Budget Party Decorations In Minutes

DIY decorating 1st birthday party ideas on a budget:  Instead of buying expensive decorations, consider making your own. You can create banners, balloon arches, and centerpieces using supplies you already have at home.

DIY Balloon Arch

To make a balloon arch, you will need:

   Balloons in desired colors and sizes
   Balloon pump
   Balloon decorating strip
   Command hooks or tape
   Fishing line or ribbon

Steps to make a balloon arch:

• Start by inflating your balloons with a balloon pump. 
• Once all your balloons are inflated, cut a piece of balloon decorating strip to your desired length. This strip has small holes to hold the balloons in place.
• Slide the knotted end of each balloon through the holes in the strip, spacing them evenly along the length of the strip. You can layer balloons on top of each other for a fuller arch.
• Once all your balloons are attached to the strip, shape the arch by bending and arranging the balloons to your desired shape.
• Attach the balloon arch to a wall, door frame, or any other desired location using command hooks or tape. Make sure the arch is secure and won't fall down.
• If you want to add extra stability, you can use fishing line or ribbon to tie the arch to nearby supports.
• Step back and admire your beautiful balloon arch! You can add extra decorations like flowers, ribbons, or lights for a more festive look.

Balloon Arches Make A Big Statement

Balloons and crepe paper streamers are a simple, inexpensive way of dressing up your party space. Simply hang crepe paper streamers to create a backdrop for the cake table or a photo booth and add balloons. Keep balloons away from small children.

Budget Friendly Balloon Decoration

Birthday party photo display ideas.
One of the most heartwarming ways to decorate for a first birthday party is by framing photos of the birthday boy or girl from their first year.  Displaying these precious memories can be a beautiful addition to your party decor and allows your guests to share in the milestones of the past year.

Cake 1st Birthday Party Ideas On A Budget

1st birthdays are special occasions that call for celebration and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious cake. One option for a birthday cake is to purchase one from a bakery, where professional bakers create delectable cakes with intricate designs and flavors. This option can cost anywhere from $50 to $75. On the other hand, a cake from a grocery store or homemade cake are less expensive options.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, creating a delicious and visually appealing birthday cake can be a fun and rewarding experience.  Let Taste of Home help with simple tips on how to decorate a cake like a pro.

Get ready to impress with a birthday cake that is sure to be a hit at the party.  The convenience of a bakery cake or the warmth of a homemade creation, which option is best for your birthday celebration?

Make Your Own 1st Birthday Cake

1st Birthday Entertainment

Instead of hiring entertainment, plan fun activities and games that you can do yourself. You can set up a craft station, a bubble machine, or a simple game of pin the tail on the donkey. Consider having Storytime and reading the birthday child's favorite book. Explore more 1st birthday entertainment tailored to little party animals.  

Skip the professional photographer.

Photographing a child's first birthday is a one-time experience. One way to save money is by asking a friend or family member to take photos during the party instead of hiring a photographer. You can also set up a DIY photo booth with props for guests to take their own pictures. Take advantage of this special opportunity to capture precious moments that will be treasured for years to come.

Budget 1st birthday favors.

Instead of buying expensive pre-made party favors, create your own DIY party favors using inexpensive items like stickers, temporary tattoos, bubbles, lollipops, or homemade treats. By choosing inexpensive first birthday favors, you can still show appreciation to your guests without breaking the bank. Discover additional first birthday favor ideas that are sure to delight your guests.

Milk and cookies theme.

Throw a simple milk and cookies 1st birthday party!  Celebrate a special milestone in the life of your little one with a fun and delicious theme.  Guests will indulge in tasty treats and enjoy good company in honor of your baby's first year of life.  Let's raise a glass of milk and cheers to many more years of happiness, love, and joy.

Enjoy your milk and cookies 1st birthday party!