Steal our tips and tricks to make baby’s first birthday party stress free. A little extra planning before the party will make this a sweet occasion filled with cute birthday decorations and activities. We have everything you need to host a fun-filled first birthday bash, from invitations to banners to cupcake toppers and more.

What to Know Before Hosting Your Baby’s First Birthday Party

Your baby is 1, and it’s time to party! “Our darling Gracie’s first birthday was in January, and it felt like a celebration for us for making it through our first year,” says Tori Horne of Tallahassee, Florida. We asked Penny Warner, child development instructor and author of more than 12 party and activity books, including Baby Birthday Parties: 20 Fun Theme Parties for Babies 1 to 3, for ideas on hosting that first milestone party. “There’s a lot to juggle—the unpredictable mood and schedule of a toddler, appropriate themes and snacks, even the number of guests.” Her seven stress-free tips will have you and your kiddo tossing your party hats into the air.

1. Watch the clock. Plan the party to last an hour to an hour-and-a-half. Babies have short attention spans and run out of energy and interest quickly. Plan the party for late morning or late afternoon—pre- or post-nap—when baby isn’t tired.

2. VIPs only. Scale back the guest list to avoid overwhelming your babe and keep costs down.

3. Ask for help. Consider hiring a babysitter or asking a family member to help you balance your hosting duties with enjoying your baby’s big day.

4. Babies love balloons. Opt for foil, or Mylar, balloons instead of latex to avoid choking hazards for kids under 8. Try saving some money by buying Mylar balloons and a helium kit. ($50, amazon.com)

5. Create a play place. Many of the babies in this age range are still on all fours, so baby-proof a play zone filled with age-appropriate toys for your little guests. Set chairs around the zone for parents to relax and watch.

6. Check your treats. Ask your guests if there are food allergies to consider. Keep snacks simple, like chopped fruit and graham crackers for the kids, and more grown-up versions for the adults to munch.

7. Don’t stress. You’re still a few years shy of hiring a D.J. and hosting pony rides. It won’t matter to baby whether you throw the party of the season or just celebrate at home with your immediate family. As long as they’re with you and feel love all around, that’s all that matters.

If you’re still looking for great ideas, try these trendy party theme and party supply suggestions.