The 1st birthday for a child is a very special event for the parents. Having a personalized party favor is a lasting keepsake memory of this special event. 1st birthday parties tend to have lots of adults and kids of different ages. Parents and children both need to be entertained at the party. Every event needs a party theme even if it's a 1st birthday party.

A theme helps to create a festive flowing atmosphere at your party.  For any event including a 1st birthday party, decorating to a theme presents a warm feeling. Think of some party theme ideas including luau, western, black light, Hawaiian, Mardi Gras, cartoon or movie characters, Mexican fiesta, sports, 50's, roaring 20's, disco 80's, hippie 60's, crazy hats, and patriotic to match the party favors. Create your own theme by combining two themes. Like have Mardi Gras theme using red, white nd blue. The party theme should be followed throughout each aspect of the event including the invitations, food, decorations, and music. The invitations should not only show the them but they also set the tone of the party as to whether it will be casual or formal.

Party games and activities add excitement to any event.  Always have a couple planned even if you are not really going to use them. They make great backup activities for events that might get boring or need a new direction. Some party ideas for party games and activities include: physical games, crafts, and brain games. Always have an extra game or activity to fill a possible lull at the party.  Party Games Etc (party-games-etc.com) has TONS of FREE party game ideas for birthdays parties. Free printable games and activites are available online. Use personalized pens for games that require writing. Let the guests keep them as a party favor.

Party music, prizes like personalized gifts, and party favors are great party ideas to make a finishing touch to ensure an awesome time by all.  Set up the party music to your party theme a few days before the event.  Test the music player.  Don't wait till the day before!  Party centerpieces can be doubled as party prizes.  Everyone loves to win a prize. For events that have assigned seating, a picture frame can be used as place-card holders which can be also used as party favors. Gift baskets or flowers make lovely centerpieces and can also be used for party prizes.