First birthday invitations are usually sent three to four weeks before the party, or six to eight weeks ahead if guests need to travel. They should include the baby's name and age, the date and time, the address and RSVP details with a reply-by date. Many parents text a mobile version to most guests and print a few cards for grandparents and keepsakes.
Planning a first birthday while caring for a one-year-old means time is short. The invitation is the first thing to get out the door, because it sets the date for everyone else. Here's when to send it, what to include and how to choose between printing and texting.
When to send first birthday invitations
Three to four weeks before the party is the sweet spot for most first birthdays. That gives family time to plan around weekends without the invitation getting forgotten.
Adjust for your situation:
- Six to eight weeks if relatives need to travel or book flights
- Four to six weeks around busy times like the holidays, summer vacations or school breaks
- Two weeks is the minimum for a small, local gathering
If people need to travel, send a quick "save the date" text first, then the full invitation a few weeks later.
What to include on a first birthday invitation
Keep it to the details guests need:
- The baby's name and age (for example, "Isla is ONE")
- The day, date and time, ideally with an end time
- The address, plus parking notes if needed
- RSVP name, phone number and a reply-by date
- One optional extra, such as a dress code, "swimsuits welcome," or a no-gifts note
A reply-by date about a week before the party gives you time to finalize food, favors and seating.
Print or text?
Both work, and many parents do both:
- Text or message for friends and younger family. It's instant, free, and replies come quickly.
- Print for grandparents and older relatives, who often like to keep a card on the fridge, or as a keepsake for the baby book.
If you plan to text, use a phone-sized version (1080x1920) so the details are readable without zooming.
A simple timeline for busy parents
- 6 weeks out: pick the date, venue and theme
- 4 weeks out: send invitations
- 2 weeks out: order the cake and decorations, then follow up on missing RSVPs
- 1 week out: confirm numbers and shop for food
- The day before: set up decorations and charge the camera
An invitation you can send today
If your theme is under the sea, our Oneder the Sea birthday invitation, a mermaid first birthday invite for girls is built for exactly this timeline. You edit it in Canva on your phone or computer with a free account, then download a 5x7 printable for grandparents and a 1080x1920 mobile version to text everyone else. It also includes a free 18-page party planner to follow the rest of the timeline.
The bottom line
Send invitations three to four weeks out, include a reply-by date, and text or print depending on who's coming. Get the invitation done first and the rest of the planning falls into place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I send first birthday invitations?
Three to four weeks before the party, or six to eight weeks if guests are traveling.
Is it okay to text first birthday invitations?
Yes. Texting is common and quick. A phone-sized design makes it easy to read.
What's a good RSVP date for a first birthday?
About a week before the party, so you can confirm food and seating.
Can I edit an invitation on my phone?
Yes. Our Oneder the Sea template is a Canva template that works in the free Canva app on iPhone and Android.