PARKER FAMILY PHOTOGRAHER

CREATIVE WAYS TO CELEBRATE YOUR BABY'S FIRST BIRTHDAY

1st birthday outdoor cake smash parker colorado

As a family photographer and a mom whose own baby is about to turn one, I'm no stranger to the bittersweet emotions that accompany this milestone.


Witnessing your baby turn one is a milestone filled with so many emotions. It marks a year of growth, joy, and countless cherished moments. Yet it also signals the passage of time, a poignant reminder of how quickly they're growing up.


There's also an acknowledgment of the challenges and hard times that shaped the past year. From sleepless nights to comforting cuddles, it's been a rollercoaster of emotions and growth in many ways.


So, I understand the desire to make this milestone truly special. Here are some creative and meaningful ways to celebrate your little one's first year:


A Smash Cake Photoshoot:

Arrange a fun and messy smash cake photoshoot. Let your baby dive into a small cake, capturing the joy and curiosity as they explore the textures and flavors. This results in adorable and candid moments that perfectly represent the spirit of turning one.


close up of a baby girls face, she is eating cake.  Aurora cake smash
baby boy lay down next to a cake, he is smiling, aurora cake smash photoshoot

Time Capsule Keepsake:

Create a time capsule filled with mementos from your baby's first year – a special onesie, a favorite toy, a lock of hair, and handwritten letters. Keep it to open on a significant future date, perhaps their 18th birthday.


Family Photoshoot:

Schedule a family photoshoot to commemorate this special occasion. A professional family photographer can capture the love, laughter, and unique personalities of your family. It's a timeless investment in memories that you'll cherish for years to come. I did this with my first son. 7 years later I still adore and cherish those images.

family of 3 photoshoot, dad holding baby girl & kissing moms head - parker colorado
Aurora family photoshoot, family of 3 embracing at sunset

First-Year Video Montage:

Compile a heartwarming video montage of your baby's first-year highlights. Include clips of their first giggles, crawling adventures, and those precious early steps. Share the video with friends and family, making it a cherished keepsake.


Outdoor Picnic Party:

Host an outdoor picnic in a local park or your backyard. Keep it simple with baby-friendly finger foods and a cozy blanket. Invite close friends and family to celebrate in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.


Small Family Gathering:

Consider a small family gathering or intimate dinner to mark the occasion. Surround your baby with the love of close family members for a warm and memorable celebration.


Adventurous Day Out:

Plan an adventurous day out tailored to your baby's interests. Whether it's a visit to the zoo, a nature walk, or a day at the beach, create lasting memories with experiences that align with your little one's budding personality.


Night in a hotel:

Planning a family getaway to a lively hotel can be an exciting way to celebrate your baby's first birthday! Let your little one enjoy splashing in the hotel pool, creating unforgettable memories. Complete the day with a special meal, perhaps even with a birthday cake, to make the occasion truly memorable. Consider hotels like Great Wolf Lodge or Gaylord Rockies for a fun-filled experience that the whole family will enjoy.


Local Recreation Center:

Consider celebrating your baby's first birthday at a local recreation center. Many centers offer rooms to rent, providing the perfect space for a larger party or a more intimate gathering.


Celebrating your baby's first birthday is not only about the milestone itself but also about creating lasting memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. However you choose to celebrate, remember you did a great job raising your sweet birthday this year!

Follow me on Instagram

@sapphireskiesbyleanne