"Oshichiya" is the night when a newborn baby is given its first name.
This day is an important milestone, when families rejoice at the baby's safe birth and pray for his or her future healthy growth.
However, as this is an event that takes place during the hectic period immediately after giving birth, many people may be confused and wonder, "What should I prepare?" and "Who should I invite?"
In this article, we will clearly explain the basic preparations you should know about celebrating the Shichi-ya, how to interact with family and relatives, and other etiquette to help you feel at ease on the day.
I hope this will help you celebrate wholeheartedly without overdoing it.
1. Basic schedule for Oshichi-ya
The Shichi-ya is traditionally held on the seventh night after the baby is born (the day of birth counts as the first day). However, the date is often changed depending on the health of the mother and child and the family's circumstances. It is important to hold the ceremony within reasonable limits.
2. Preparation of naming document
The main event of the Shichi-ya is the naming ceremony. The preparations include:
-
Prepare a naming certificate : It is common to write the baby's name, date of birth, and parents' names in calligraphy on a piece of paper, but recently designer naming certificates and photo frame-style ones have also become popular.
-
Decide where to display it : Display it somewhere visible to your family, such as on the Shinto altar, in the tokonoma alcove, or in a corner of the living room.
*The naming certificate will be kept as a memento for years to come, so it is important to prepare it carefully.
3. Preparing celebratory meals and meals
There is no special format, but families often gather together to celebrate the birth of a baby.
-
Meals : Festive dishes such as red rice and sea bream are popular, but recently some families have been using catering services, delivery services, and other catering services.
-
Consider the burden on mother and child : Since the mother's health is not yet recovered at this time, those around her should support her in making preparations.
4. Who do you invite? Family and relatives
Since it is an event that is traditionally celebrated among close friends, there is no need to invite a large number of people.
-
It is common for grandparents and close relatives to attend.
-
Since the COVID-19 outbreak, more families are reporting their babies through photos and online naming ceremonies.
-
It is a good idea to clearly communicate the date, time and schedule to participants in advance.
5. What should I wear on the day?
There are no rules, but since you will likely be photographed, we recommend that you dress neatly.
-
Baby : Something clean, such as a baby dress or a white romper.
-
Parents and siblings : It is preferable for them to dress modestly and not too formally.
6. Capture your memories with photos and videos
The Shichi-ya is the first turning point in a baby's life. Many families take photos with the baby's name book or take commemorative photos with the whole family. Recently, the idea of leaving handprints and footprints has also become popular.
■ Conclusion
With all my heart, within reason
The most important thing is to take into consideration the health of the mother and baby. Don't get too distracted by the preparations, and make sure to celebrate wholeheartedly within your limits.