If you're from a fam that's already full of kids, there's no way to avoid a bigger party. It will be joyous and noisy and messy. The best option for managing more guests is to outsource where possible. A fun theme that can be done in your backyard or the local park is a Teddy Bear's Picnic party. Friends can BYO a rug and picnic baskets of snacks if you want to keep the vibe casual and not blow out on budget, or you can get your Pinterest game on and cater with lots of nostalgic checked blankets and platters of yumminess. I highly recommend either an entertainer if there are a lot of children as it takes the pressure off the grown-ups, or hire self-managed entertainment like soft play pieces, a ball pit or push cars.

Don't forget sticky name tags for any bears the kids might bring along. The last thing you want to be handling is a treasured friend going missing. A name and a phone number will ensure they'll be safe throughout the length of the party.

A first birthday is the perfect time to start special traditions. The pay-off as they get older is priceless. Some ideas you might want to consider include:

Say cheese

Professional photography is one of the most precious gifts you can give yourself. The plethora of options available means you can find pro shooters at lots of different budgets, whether it's a speedy 15-minute session or a more indulgent home visit. Booking in beautiful family photos to capture each birthday creates memories that will be cherished for decades.

Bake your pick

For many families, selecting a birthday cake is a core childhood memory. In the younger years, it's often messy and wild (if you let them lend a hand). At 12 months, they're unlikely to have much in the way of preferences for baked confections but lay the foundation that you intend to continue for all future birthdays early, however that looks for your little one.

Pen a letter

An inexpensive idea you can start now is to buy a journal and write a letter to them each and every birthday celebration. Baby books are amazing too, of course! But if you're on the forgetful side and haven't had a chance to fill one in, a simple letter to your little love is something you can do on their birthday every year. If they've got siblings, have them get involved too. Then gift the book to them on their 21st birthday.

Plant a tree

Planting trees is a sentimental (and long-lasting) way to mark the milestone. Look up the meaning behind your favourite trees, and you might be surprised by how special they are. Apple trees signify happiness and the bounty of life. Birch trees represent new beginnings, and a Pink Magnolia tree means youth, innocence, and joy. If you're not the one celebrating the first birthday, trees with meaning also make a great gift for other new parents.

Listen, why am I even writing this if I don't mention my favourite thing… dress ups. If you are also a costume lover, then allow me to make a few excellent suggestions.

• If you don't want to go OTT but need something cute, I highly recommend a 'ONE' themed t-shirt for them to wear on the day and in photos. It's so easy to make or create the other numbers as they grow up.
• If you're in the mood to level up, an adorable one-themed crown and cape makes for great pictures, and will become a keepsake too.
• For the ultimate dress-up, Google 'baby cupcake' costumes and be inspired by all the fun. A creative costume will mean giggles for you (now) and them (later).