Four Seasons Koolina | Traditional doljabi for baby’s first birthday

A Korean Tradition

Doljabi, a traditional Korean custom, takes center stage during a baby’s first birthday celebration, known as dol or doljanchi. This symbolic ritual involves placing various objects in front of the baby and encouraging them to grab one or two. It’s an exciting event! Friends and family yell encouragement from the sidelines, trying to lure the baby’s attention to their favored item. The stakes are high, as the chosen item is believed to foretell the baby’s future career path or fortune.

Historically, the items would include a pen (signifying scholarly pursuits), money (representing wealth), thread (symbolizing a long life), and rice (for abundance and prosperity). However, modern celebrations can get creative, sometimes adding a microphone (for a singer/celebrity) or a play knife and cutting board (for a chef).

Regardless of the items, doljabi is a joyous occasion. Family and friends gather to celebrate the baby’s first birthday and make predictions about their future. It’s a beautiful blend of cultural tradition and familial hopes and dreams.

Celebrating a first birthday at the Four Seasons in Koolina

The Four Seasons Koolina provided the perfect setting for an easy, elegant doljabi celebration. The beachside restaurant overlooked the bright blue lagoons at Koolina, which sparkled in the sun as palms danced slowly. As an intimate celebration with close friends and family, each guest was met with love and excitement, which continued to build until the big event – one of my favorites! It’s such a delight to watch how each baby reacts to the items and encouragement. X was hesitant at first, but as the crowd urged him on, he became increasingly excited and started grabbing items with enthusiasm: a gavel, a paint brush, and money.

After the ritual, we took a few family photos around the grounds of the Four Seasons Koolina and then enjoyed tasty eats.

A First birthday at the Four Seasons Koolina Resort

Do you have a major milestone coming up in your family? Whether you celebrate at the Four Seasons Koolina or your home, Little Bird can be there to capture your important memories! Find out more about our family and birthday photo sessions.