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In traditional Chinese culture, a baby’s 100 day celebration is a hugely important milestone for both mother and baby. Read on as we delve into the history and the customs behind the baby’s “full moon”, and share our top tips for pulling off an unforgettable 100 day party right here in Hong Kong. What Is a 100 Day Celebration?The birth of a baby is a joyous occasion and is celebrated in a variety of ways by different cultures all over the world. In many cases traditions are observed, especially in those first few precious moments of life. Chinese culture and tradition dictates that a baby’s first month (also known as the “full moon”) or now more commonly the first 100 days, should be marked with a celebration as it is an auspicious occasion, not only for the family but the newborn baby as well. Why Do We Celebrate 100 Days?The origins of when and how the Chinese 100 day celebration tradition began do not date back to a specific time, however in ancient times, when medical care was scarce, the infant mortality rate was very high, and therefore for a baby to reach the one month mark was a cause for celebration. This period also marks the end of confinement for the mother. In more modern times, whilst the end of the first month is still considered to be an important milestone for both the mother and the baby, it is more common place to celebrate the 100 day mark, thus allowing the mother and baby significant time to rest and recover and also minimising the risk of exposing the baby to germs. The celebration itself is called many different things: a full moon party, the 100 day celebration, red egg and ginger party. Whatever the name, the sentiments are the same; to welcome a new child among family and friends, and for many it may be the first time they are meeting the baby. And whilst some things may have been left open to interruption and also personal preference, there are a few key elements that remain the same. You may also like: The History of Mid-Autumn Festival New parents Pam and Michael, born in Hong Kong and raised in the United Kingdom, recently celebrated the birth of their baby boy Matthew at Jardine House in Central with a 100 day banquet. “The celebration is much like a Chinese wedding with a big banquet that typically comprises of a feast of 12 dishes”, says Pam. Ginger vinegar and dyed red eggs were distributed to family and friends. A part-time professional MC, Pam also put together a video clip of her pregnancy and Matthew’s first few months for family and friends to enjoy. She began to plan this celebration before the baby’s arrival, and as the beautiful pictures show, the event was wonderful. What’s The Significance Of The Red Egg?Red eggs symbolise the birth of a baby, because they are a symbol of the changing process of life and the shape symbolises harmony and a new life. They are dyed red because the colour red is a sign of happiness in Chinese culture. These are sent to the family upon the arrival of a baby and gifted at the celebration itself alongside pickled ginger. The customs differ in different parts of China and also based on family traditions. For example, in central China, when a new baby is born, red eggs will be sent to the grandma on the mother’s side. If the eggs have a black dot at one end, it means the baby is a boy, the red eggs should be sent in an even number, six or eight eggs, wishing the baby boy will get a wife when he grows up. If the red eggs don’t have black dots, the eggs and are in odd number, five or seven, it means the new baby is a girl, and the odd number wishes the baby girl will get married in the future. In some cases the even and odd numbers can change depending on the sex of the baby and your own family tradition. As the first month and/or 100 days marks many ‘firsts’ in a baby’s life, it is not uncommon for parents to shave a baby’s head to commemorate the child’s independent existence, and also to stimulate new hair growth. Today, families may simply clip a lock of the baby’s hair to store as a keepsake. And now in more modern days, a baby’s hand and foot are often cast to mark the event and to have as a keepsake. Renita Schmidt chose to have little Remy’s hair cut a little when he was one month old. Whilst at the 100 day celebration they were able to enjoy time with family and close friends at an intimate party. The party theme was red and they gave red eggs to all the guests. They used pictures of Remy’s face to decorate and make the event personal. Whether you are celebrating the full moon or the 100 days, a party is typically held at local hotel venues, Chinese restaurants, function rooms and/or at home. Hotel and restaurant parties will most likely include a traditional Chinese banquet meal, while parties at home may be more casual affairs. Hong Kong-based model, insurance agent and eyelash stylist, Karena Kwan, celebrated baby Yunice’s 100 days at the Verandah restaurant in Repulse Bay. They chose to have a western lunch buffet party with a live band as they wanted their guests to feel relaxed. Beautifully detailed party decorations, with the baby’s name and initials, added a personal touch to the special occasion and the photos will be a long lasting memory for Yunice when she grows up! How To Throw A Chinese 100 Day Celebration PartyWhilst there are no specific themes that you must adhere to, here are some ideas when planning your special event.
Have fun with the décor and let your imagination run free. Use balloons and colour to add small touches of flare to the occasion. Personalisation is also fun and you can now also create a foam board with your baby’s face, creating venue decoration and also photography props. Party DecorMy Sweet Art HKVenue rental, party workshops, decor orations and cakes, My Sweet Art HK can do it all for you! Contact: Flat 1B, 1/F, Long Kee Mansion, 54-56 Cameron Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Whatsapp, 9779 2979, Swoon SoiréesOnline party boutique filled with creative inspiration and must-have accessories for hosting your next event. PartytimeWith an e-shop and five retail shops located in Central, Causeway Bay, Repulse Bay, Discovery Bay and Kowloon Tong, Partytime has one of the city’s largest selection of party supplies. Contact: Simply LoveOne of Hong Kong’s largest party supply stores, located conveniently in the Lan Kwai Fong. With brands imported from the USA, UK, Australia and Europe. Contact: 7A Ho Lee Commercial Building, 38 D’Aguilar Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2810 6223, Whatsapp: 5109 4818 Party HeroContact: 1/F, 80 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, WhatsApp: 6303 2303 or M’S Creation *Closed*Specialising in candy corner and dessert tables, M’s creations can add some fun and flair to your celebration. For pictures and contact information visit. Contact: Facebook and Whatsapp: 6758 8819 Partymakershk *Closed*Partymakers can source fun and quirky supplies and giftware to accommodate your theme. https://www.facebook.com/partymakershk/ Venues
You may also like: Our Ultimate Guide to Party Dress Rental in Hong Kong! CakesA celebration would not be complete without a fitting cake! Here are some places you can try to make your event even more special. Complete DeeliteComplete Deelite has built a stellar reputation for spectacular edible creations over the years and their reputation absolutely precedes them! Their show-stopping cakes in any design will wow your party guests and guarantee that there will only be crumbs left! www.completedeelite.com My Sweet Art HKMy Sweet Art HK has an impressive portfolio of unique cakes and sweet treats for all different occasions and themes. Visit the website to get some inspiration for your upcoming event! www.mysweetarthk.com SugarMeIf you want a beautiful cake made with complete precision and care, SugarMe has got you covered. They really know how to turn heads with these wondrous creations in many different flavours and designs. Ever thought about having a Hermes handbag as your birthday cake? SugarMe can make that possible! Orders yours today at www.sugarmehk.com Mandarin Oriental Cake ShopKnown for their beautiful creations, the Mandarin Oriental Cake Shop has been catering to Hong Kong’s sweet tooth for over 25 years. If you’re looking for something truly extravagant then this is absolutely the place for you. With cakes, chocolates and patisseries, there is something for every event in the calendar. www.mandarinoriental.com SiftSome would say that Sift produces some of the best cupcakes in Hong Kong. With moist and fluffy sponge and light, airy icing, you would have to really look hard to find a better alternative for your next party. Along with their signature cakes and cupcakes, they also offer bespoke services for an extra special event. www.siftdesserts.com Awfully ChocolateThis one is for all the chocoholics out there. Awfully Chocolate will cater to all of your chocolate needs with their delicious treats. Once you have a taste, you won’t be able to stop so don’t weigh yourself for a few days after! Top tip: their signature dark chocolate cake with fudge is to die for. www.awfullychocolate.com Bakes by TaniaTheir concept is simple: treats to make you smile from ear to ear and make your inner foodie squeal in delight. These cakes will brighten up the room at your next event with stunning colours and customisable designs, ensuring that every cake is its own piece of art. Order now from www.bakesbytania.com Different Cultures Also Do This
Helpful HintsThe Don’ts
The Do’s
Do You Bring A Gift To A 100 Day Celebration?Gifts are customary in a 100 day celebration or the first time seeing an infant as with most cultures. In addition to the gift itself, the amount you spend on it, how it is wrapped and presented is equally important according to Chinese culture.
You may also like: Baby’s First Christmas PhotographersThomas Kwok Photos – https://thomaskwokphotos.wordpress.com/ email for rates. Honey Child Photography – https://www.facebook.com/Honeychildphotographyhk/, rates start from $3500. By Janelle – http://www.byjanelle.net/ contact via the online form or on email Bettitude Photography – https://bettitudephotography.com/ or email Little Stories – http://little-stories.co/ Evans Baby Studio – https://photobyevan.com/ Kim Bacon Photography – http://www.kimbaconphotographyorders.com/ Packages start from $3800 for 2 hours & 75 high-resolution images. Email or contact via online form. Cheeky Monkey – http://www.cheekymonkey.com.hk/ – Packages from $4800 for 2 hours and up to 50 people, email DFN Studios – http://www.dfnstudios.com/#!/page/7911/home – email for pricing Sakshi Verma – https://www.sakshiverma.net/ – Prices start from $3500 for 2 hours with 80+ photos. Make Up Artists
How To Make Chinese Red EggsIngredients
Method1. Make sure the hard boiled eggs are cool before colouring 2. Combine vinegar, water and food colouring 3. Put eggs in colour bath till they are coated in your desired shade of red 4. Place on a cooling rack with a paper towel lined tray And there you have it! Everything you need to know to throw or attend your first 100 day celebration party. Main photo courtesy of Karena Kwan; photo 1 courtesy of Shutterstock, photo 2 courtesy of Pam & Michael; photo 3 courtesy of Renata Schmidt; photo 4 courtesy of Renata Schmidt; photo 5 courtesy of Karena Kwan; photo 6 courtesy of Shutterstock; photo 7 courtesy of Shutterstock; photo 8 courtesy of mysweetartIG; photo 9 courtesy of siftdessertsIG; photo 10 courtesy of Shutterstock; photo 11 courtesy of Shutterstock. Related articles:
Roopal Popat is a content writer, editor, and copywriter with a focus on all aspects of health, parenting, education, families, and lifestyle. She also edits in the global real estate and finance sectors. Roopal holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and American Studies. Her career spans across Project Management, Business Analysis, Finance recruitment and Training and Development, having worked in the UK, New York, and Hong Kong. Born in the UK, and bought up in Tanzania, Roopal enjoys traveling and spending time with her 2 children and husband. Why do people celebrate 100 days?Just like the full month celebration marks baby's first full month, the 100-day celebration marks a newborn's first full 100 days. This practice is common in other Asian countries like Korea and Japan, and it dates back to ancient times when life was harder, so it was a good omen if an infant survived past 100 days.
What happens at a 100On that 100th day, a family would traditionally pray and give food offerings to thank the Shaman spirit of childbirth for the child having survived this difficult period. If the child was sick at this time, the family would pass the day without celebration or party as this would be considered bad luck for the infant.
What cultures celebrate 100 days?Chinese culture and tradition dictates that a baby's first month (also known as the “full moon”) or now more commonly the first 100 days, should be marked with a celebration as it is an auspicious occasion, not only for the family but the newborn baby as well.
What should I do for 10015 Fabulous Ways To Celebrate 100th Day. Make 100th Day Crowns! Lay out supplies to make these fun crowns that are worth wearing to celebrate 100th Day. ... . Make Edible Necklaces. ... . Watch 100th Day Videos! ... . Make a 100th Day Poster. ... . Make a Gumball Machine. ... . Find Hidden Pictures. ... . Build Using 100 Pieces. ... . Create art out of 100.. |