The Romanian Mission would soon be alive with the sounds of women from around the world coming together. 

While waiting for the United Nations guests to arrive and select their hat, Mr. Bernard Grossman, formerly of Betmar hats, stands between Archie and his assistant, Ramona,

He is greeted warmly by The Hat Ladies who know his hats very well...

...and therefore, feel as if they have known him forever, too.

Ambassador Miculescu and Archie are ready to welcome their United Nations guests.

Ambassadors from the United Nations stepped off the elevator, took off their titles, and put on a hat donated by The Bollman Hat Company. 

They were transformed into little girls, thrilled at playing dress up, seeing their pretty face in the mirrors there.

With chapeaux on head and a glass of wine in hand...

 ...the officials entered the Reception Room where a receiving line of The Hat Ladies of Charleston awaited them. 

All were welcomed by their hostess, Ambassador Miculescu

Then by Top Hat, Archie

With special acknowledgement to Tammy McCottrey Brown

Eventually each would step up to the platform, introduce themselves, and share their thoughts. 

They ranged from the self-esteem they felt by putting on a hat, to the role of hats in their culture and religion, to their memories of family members wearing hats.  Their positive hatitude, validated the fact that the magic pulled out of a hat is truly universal.

Photos are taken...first of the entire group, then in sections

.