So my husband and I went back and forth on this. Before having our daughter we thought, heck no will we throw a big birthday bash for a one year old! I mean, why? The child won’t remember the birthday and might even be too tired to enjoy the event anyways. I could see it all now, friends and family (some of which who haven’t seen the child since birth) will come and insist on holding your child which will more than likely scare the kid and result in fussing and crying.

On top of that, you’ll stress over the food, decorations, goodie bags, beverages etc! The party really ends up being all about the adults at the end of the day. So yes, pre-baby my husband and I said we would much rather spend that money on a trip–just us three. Perhaps give our child a smash cake on a beach somewhere and make a vacation out of it. Sounds fabulous, right?

Well, that’s not happening. Nope, we are doing exactly what we said we wouldn’t do. We are going through with having the party. I know, I know. So yes, you guessed it, with the party just days away, I am stressing over the turnout of the day all while keeping my fingers crossed Giuliana naps before the party starts so she can be her happy self. Believe it or not, we even have a theme! “Some Bunny is One.” All decorations are bunny themed and are as cute as can be. During her one year photos, we dressed her up with bunny ears, a lace top, and pink tutu. Just to tie the whole theme together. Who am I? Ha! I have actually never thrown a themed party for myself or anyone but have to admit, it was fun planning. Paying for everything—not so much fun.

I have been to parties where the parents have entertainers such as face painters, story tellers, petting zoo’s! No really, animals are brought to the party. How cool is that? Even as sweet as this all is, it’s pricey. So we have decided to scratch entertainment, keep the party to a 2 hour limit, celebrate Giuliana’s first year with simple food, drinks, and a cake. I am really looking forward to the day with our friends and family. The first year is so incredibly special for everyone and emotional as well. After Sunday, my baby is no longer considered a baby, but in fact will be a toddler. Amazing!

We’ll look back on pictures for years to come and after it’s all said and done, the money will have been all worth it.

Cheers to the next phase and chapter in all of our lives.