First birthday party.

I don't want to make a big fuss over LO first birthday, she'll be spoilt with prezzies and we'll get a cake obviously. But MIL is telling me I HAVE to have a party for her, that it should be an "open house" between 1pm and 6pm so people can come and go as they please. Basically she wants an excuse for a party with lots of people, most of which will be her family/ friends. I think she's being controlling and should keep out of it but my OH is telling me that MIL (his mum) is not trying to tell me what to do. Um yes she is!

Ughhh...

Anyone not had parties so young? Or those that did was it more for family/ friends than for baby? What did you do for it?