A first birthday is really two celebrations in one. It is the baby's day, and it is a quiet milestone for the parents who made it through a whirlwind year. The card will mostly be read by the grown-ups, so write something the family will treasure when they look back.

Here are more than 40 first birthday wishes, grouped by who they are for and the tone you want. Add the little one's name and sign with love.

Short first birthday wishes

Happy 1st birthday, little one.
One whole year of you. Happy birthday.
Happy first birthday to the sweetest little one.
Cheers to one year of cuddles and chaos.
Wishing you a wonderful first birthday.
Happy birthday, one year old.

Sweet first birthday messages

Happy first birthday to the little one who has filled this year with so much love.
One year ago you made us a family. Happy birthday, sweet baby.
You have grown so much in just one year. We cannot wait to watch you keep going.
Happy 1st birthday. You are loved more than you will ever know.
Here is to the first of many magical birthdays. We adore you.

First birthday messages from parents

Our whole world changed the day you arrived. Happy first birthday, our love.
One year of you and we are still amazed every single day. Happy birthday.
You made us parents, and it has been the best year of our lives. Happy 1st birthday.
Watching you grow this year has been pure magic. We love you endlessly. Happy birthday.

First birthday messages from grandparents

Happy first birthday to our littlest love. Being your grandparents is a gift.
One year of spoiling you, and we are only getting started. Happy birthday, sweetheart.
You have brought so much joy to our family. Happy 1st birthday, little one.
Grandma and Grandpa love you to the moon. Happy first birthday.

Funny first birthday messages

Happy 1st birthday. You will not remember a thing, but the photos are forever.
One year old and already running the whole household. Happy birthday, boss.
Congratulations to the parents on surviving year one. Oh, and happy birthday, baby.
Happy first birthday. Enjoy the cake, you have earned it. So have your parents.

First birthday quotes to add

A baby fills a place in your heart you never knew was empty.
The littlest feet make the biggest footprints in our hearts.
A year of firsts, a year of love.
You are the greatest adventure we never planned for.

A quick tip for a gift that lasts

A one year old will not remember the day, which is exactly why a keepsake matters. A personalised 1st birthday book starring the child gives the family something to read together for years and look back on long after the balloons are gone. You can see our books here.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good first birthday message?

"Happy first birthday, little one. One whole year of you, and we love you more every day." Sweet, simple and family-friendly.

What do parents write on their baby's first birthday?

Make it personal and a little reflective: "You made us a family one year ago, and it has been the best year of our lives. Happy 1st birthday."