The first celebration after a loss may need room for an empty place.

The first birthday or holiday after someone has died is not an ordinary occasion with a sad note in it. The absence is the loudest thing in the room, and behaving as though it is not there usually costs more than saying so. Making space for the empty place, in whatever form suits the people involved, tends to loosen the day rather than darken it. Nobody present has forgotten.

If you are hosting, ask the closest person what they would like, including the option of doing nothing at all. Say the name out loud early, and let the mood be uneven without hurrying anyone.