A Traditional Korean First Birthday | Aleyna’s Doljanchi

Photographing baby Aleyna’s Doljanchi, a traditional Korean First Birthday, was so much fun. The party was held at the Royal Oaks Country Club in Vancouver, Washington. The beautiful Sequoia Room was the perfect venue for this very special first birthday. I first met Aleyna last month when she came to the Tigard studio for her First Birthday Photo Session and Cake Smash. She is the cutest little girl. I was very honored when her parents asked me to photograph her Doljanchi.

I believe traditions are so important. I love that Aleyna’s parents are holding onto their Korean traditions and passing them down to their daughter. The center piece of the party was a beautiful table filled with many special items. Everything on the table had meaning. I loved learning about each item.

Aleyna was dressed in a beautiful traditional Korean dress. I loved the bright colors and the pretty details. Aleyna’s birthday party was attended by close friends, family and members of their church. Everyone was overwhelmed with joy and so happy to be there celebrating her first birthday.

This special moment during the Doljanchi was so cool. Aleyna’s grandmother placed a long intertwined rope around here neck. This symbolizes long life. Aleyna’s grandfather shot an arrow outside. This symbolizes all Aleyna’s bad luck being shot away. These Korean traditions are so special.This part of Aleyna’s traditonal Korean first birthday was so interesting. Her parents laid out several items on a blanket. Each one symbolized a different profession or life event. They sat Aleyna down and everyone cheered while they waited for her to choose one. She was a little scared by the cheers but eventually she choose the coins. This symbolizes good fortune. What a neat tradition!Seriously, how cute is she!I really enjoyed learning so many special Korean traditions. This was a very special birthday party to be part of. Happy 1st Birthday Aleyna!