Harlee’s Unicorn Theme Party

Atam Hatik Party

You must be thinking, what is an “atam hatik” and how do I get one!? The atam hatik is a centuries old Armenian tradition that celebrates the appearance of the baby’s first tooth.  The “atam” means “tooth” and “hatik” refers to the traditionally cooked wheat dish eaten on this occasion.

In October, Harlee got her first tooth and right after that the second one popped up.  We were so excited to gather our friends and celebrate this fun and sweet milestone with our girl!

Food

The atam hatik is traditionally celebrated with only sweet foods (desserts!).  For Harlee’s party, we served lunch catered by Lemonade but made sure plenty of sweets were readily available.  We had about 10 varieties of dessert: from cupcakes and brownies to millefeuille and candy.

Decor

I chose a unicorn theme because what’s sweeter than a first tooth, plenty of desserts, and kids galore?! Moments with Harlee are pure magic and we really wanted to share this experience with our closest family and friends.

The atam hatik is a child focused party, so I wanted all of the kids to feel part of the event and have a fun little take-a-way from the party.  I worked with Hunting for Roses who prepared all of the unicorn headbands and party decor.

The Tradition

At the party, the Mama props the baby on the floor and places five objects in front of the child; the first object the baby selects predicts her future occupation.  Before the child makes the selection, her head is covered with tulle, onto which some hatik is sprinkled to signify a wish for fruitfulness.  Along with the hatik, some candy, coins, and other goodies are sprinkled which the other children are encouraged to collect as they spill on the floor!

Harlee’s Pick

For Harlee’s atam hatik, we placed a book, t-square (Alan’s from junior high), paint brush, scissors, and mouse; we wanted to mix in new items with traditional items (book and scissors).  For fun, we also wrote down 5 universities for Harlee to choose. This way, we can rally behind a college until she makes her pick in about 17 years!

When the time came, all of the kids crowded around Harlee and I poured the hatik on the tulle.  Within seconds it was on the floor and the kids were excited to take their prizes.  In the middle of the chaos, Harlee picked up a paintbrush and then reached for Columbia University! We’re going to be paying A LOT of money for art school!

Friends

One of the amazing things about motherhood is the ever growing circle of friends – for me and for Harlee. I was so excited that my dear friends Leah and Dee – talented and amazing mamas – and their babes could join in on the fun! Along with our other friends and closest family, this was a party that I know we won’t forget and one I’m sure tell Harlee about over and over again.

The party made quite an impression on the non-Armenian kids. One of my friends said her daughter threw her dolls an atam hatik the next morning.

All photos by Joanne Pio.

Sources:

Party Decor (tassels, fringe, Unicorn headbands) via Hunting for Roses | Vintage Pink Glassware | Mini Gold Cake Stand | Espresso Cup | Vintage Rattan Table (similar) | Rattan Poufs (similar) | Vintage Indigo Blanket | Vintage Brass & Glass Bookcase (similar)

Harlee is wearing Mini Rodini | I’m wearing a vintage dress | Alan is in J.Crew