Verified answer

She won't remember the party, regardless of how extravagant it is. There's no reason that you have to rent a place out to make it special. Make it small. Invite some friends and family to your house and get a cute cake that will look good all over her face and hands (because that's where it will end up) :) What she WILL enjoy is seeing her family and little friends, having everybody's attention on her, and playing in all of the carboard boxes that her toys came in. I guarantee she won't hold it against you when she's old enough to guilt trip you. Chuck E. Cheese is a germ infested madhouse and not the type of environment you want your daughter to spend her first birthday. So enjoy the peaceful years when you can have a simple get-together before she gets to school and you have to start competing with the other parents for the "best birthday party" award.

I just rented a place and had a family party. No huge entertainment was needed. At a year, my daughter was super thrilled with seeing everyone and being the center of attention. I kept the party just family and close friends and it worked out very well.

For a First Birthday party?............... really??!

Save your money and just get a cute cake... maybe cupcakes for guests so she can have her own cake.

You have MANY more years for birthday parties..... pace yourself. Once you do Chuck E. Cheeses' then you have to top it with a skating party or an amusement park. (Trust me on this one!)

A one-year-olds party is mostly for you and your family so keep it simple at your house. Just plan something simple like finger painting or whatever crafty things she likes. Maybe she could paint her handprint on t-shirts or picture frames for family. Both of my kids fell asleep at their parties, so just plan it around her nap schedule at the time.

Hope this helps!