Baptism
Tips for planning a baptism or christening party
The arrival of a new baby is truly a cause for celebration! A baptism or baby christening is a perfect occasion to share your excitement with friends and family.
Party food is always a centerpiece for such events, so before you begin planning the christening party, think about what kind of food you will serve. Will it be a buffet? A potluck lunch? Simply veggie trays and finger foods? An afternoon tea? For a less formal gathering with close family, a simple backyard barbecue may work out well.
Some tips for planning an infant christening include:
- Arrange the date and particulars of the event early with your chosen religious leader, if he or she is to be part of the ceremony.
- Decide if you will follow a theme for christening favors, decorations and invitations. Popular choices for infant baptisms include teddy bears, crosses, flowers or hearts.
- Send out the invitations. Since the event is usually a formal one, you may want to indicate suggested dress on the invitation. Send invitations well in advance so guests can make travel arrangements.
- Choose godparents for the child. These should be individuals who are close friends or relatives who live in a way you’d want your child to follow.
- Book a location for the gathering. Remember that a baptism party should be a low-key event, so a restaurant, church hall or your home will be appropriate, as long as they aren’t boisterous locations.
- Decide on a budget for the party, and then decide what you will do in terms of decorations and paper products or glassware.
- Choose a christening gown. Is there one that has been passed down in the family that a grandmother would like you to use? If you’re buying, it would be a kind gesture to invite the godparent to help you choose the christening gown.
- Select music and party entertainment if these are part of your vision.
- Plan for food. If you are the parent of the child, your attention should be focused on your baby christening, and not on sausage balls, so plan early and confirm details well in advance.
- Plan activities for the younger crowd. Since families are generally invited to baptisms and children may outnumber adults, you’ll need diversions such as a movie or simple games for kids.
- Do as much as possible in advance of the day so you can enjoy the visit with your family and contemplate the significance of the event.
