We break down the planning and details of the perfect baptism
Step 1: Choose the event location and date
Baptism parties are a wonderful way to celebrate your baby's special day with family and friends. The best part is, the size and style of your celebration is completely up to you! You can opt for a grand gathering with hundreds of guests or a more intimate picnic with just the godparents/sponsors and grandparents. There is no right or wrong way to celebrate, so consider your budget, time of day, weather, and number of guests when planning.
Once you've decided on the size of your party, it's time to choose a location. You have three general choices: keep it at the church, have it at someone's home, or have it at a restaurant or event facility.
If your church has a hall, that may be a perfect option, and it could even be free. Some churches may ask for a donation or charge a rental fee, so be sure to check beforehand. Having the ceremony and reception in the same location is convenient for both you and your guests. Just make sure to check what items you can use in the hall before buying decorations and supplies.
If a church isn't an option, having the party at your home or a family member's is the next easiest option. You'll have control over the venue and won't have to worry about rushing to finish the ceremony or keeping things on schedule. If the weather is right, you could even have a casual picnic or a more elaborate catered tent event. Just keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so have a backup plan in case of rain or other inclement conditions.
Finally, some families choose to have their baptism party at local restaurants or event facilities. This option is great because you don't have to worry about cleaning up after the party or having guests stay too long. Just make sure to book early to secure your preferred date and time.
Step 2: Choose Godparents
In the past, godparents were traditionally chosen as the people who would take care of a child if something happened to their parents. While this role has evolved over time, it's still important to select individuals who will serve as positive role models for your child and help guide them in their faith. Here are some steps to follow when choosing godparents for your baby:
Step 2a: Check Your Church's Requirements. Each church may have different requirements for choosing godparents, so it's important to check with your church before making any decisions. Check your church's website for a list of godparent/sponsor requirements, or call the church office for assistance. This will help ensure that the person you select meets your church's standards.
Step 2b: Discuss with Your Spouse or Partner before selecting godparents, it's important to discuss with your spouse or partner to ensure that you both agree on the choices. Compromise is key here, and you may consider choosing one godparent from each side of the family or selecting someone who has been a mentor or close friend in your life.
Step 2c: Ask Them in a Fun or Creative Way. When it comes to asking someone to be a godparent, there are many fun and creative ways to do it. You can simply ask in person or send a gift to let them know how much they mean to you. Consider something sentimental, like a poem and handprint from the baby, or something lighthearted, like a "Godfather" beer glass.
Step 2d: Confirm Schedules. After the godparents-to-be have happily accepted, you will need to confirm everyone's schedule to ensure they are available to attend the baptism ceremony. If they live out-of-town and need to make travel arrangements, be sure to ask them well in advance so they can make necessary plans.
Step 2e: Plan to Thank Them. After the ceremony, don't forget to thank your godparents for their support and guidance. You can write a small card or plan a special gift to show your appreciation. While this is not required, it's a nice touch that can make your godparents feel appreciated and valued.
Step 3: Choose and Mail Invitations
It's important to send out invitations at least a month before the baptism event. If the ceremony is planned during summer, it's advisable to ask guests to save the date ahead of time in order to avoid conflicts with their vacation plans. You can achieve this by either informing them in person or sending out small cards with the basic details, followed by the full invitation later.
Make sure to request RSVPs to have an idea of how many people will attend. Although using "Regrets Only" can reduce the number of calls, it may not be enough to account for all guests who won't be able to make it. Thus, it's recommended to be prepared for any unexpected guests who might show up.
To make the invitation process easier, there are a lot of options online. If you have already picked a theme or color scheme, it can help you narrow down your options. You can either buy the entire card and envelope combo or go for a digital print that you can print yourself to save some money.
Adding a photo of your baby to the invitation is a great way to give it a personal touch. You can use any nice picture of your baby or even do a special photoshoot in their baptism outfit. This will not only make your invite special, but you can also use the photos to prepare thank you gifts for your guests.
Step 4: Faith Preparation with Your Priest or Pastor
Before baptizing their child, parents may want to talk to a priest about various topics related to the baptism ceremony and the spiritual life of their child. Here are some things that parents may want to discuss with a priest:
The meaning and significance of baptism: Parents may want to know more about the importance of baptism and what it means for their child's spiritual life. They may also want to learn about the symbols and rituals associated with the ceremony.
The requirements for baptism: Parents may want to know what is required for their child to be baptized, such as attending baptismal classes or fulfilling certain criteria.
The role of godparents: Parents may want to learn more about the role of godparents in the baptism ceremony and how to choose suitable candidates for this important role.
The preparation for baptism: Parents may want to discuss the logistics of the baptism ceremony, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony, as well as any special requests or accommodations.
The follow-up after baptism: Parents may want to learn more about what comes after the baptism ceremony, such as how to raise their child in the faith and how to help them grow spiritually.
Overall, the conversation between parents and the priest can help clarify any questions or concerns and ensure that the baptism ceremony is a meaningful and memorable event for the family.
Step 5: Ordering a Baptismal Garment
When purchasing a baptismal garment for their child, parents should consider several factors:
Tradition: Some families may want to follow a particular religious or family tradition when it comes to choosing a baptismal garment. They may prefer a particular style or color that is significant to their faith or cultural heritage.
Comfort: Since the baptismal ceremony involves water, parents should choose a garment that is comfortable for their child to wear and won't become too heavy or uncomfortable when wet.
Size: Parents should consider the size of the garment carefully, making sure that it fits their child comfortably without being too tight or too loose. It's also a good idea to think about the length of the garment, especially if the baptism is taking place during a colder season.
Fabric: The fabric of the garment is an important consideration, as it will affect how the garment looks, feels, and behaves during the ceremony. Some parents may prefer natural fibers like cotton or linen, while others may prefer a more formal fabric like silk or satin.
Style: There are many styles of baptismal garments available, from simple gowns to more elaborate dresses or suits. Parents should choose a style that fits their child's personality and reflects their own preferences and values.
Cost: The cost of the garment is also an important factor to consider. Some parents may prefer to purchase a more expensive garment that they can keep as a keepsake, while others may opt for a less expensive option that is more practical for their needs.
Step 6: Reception and Meal Planning
Here are our most popular tips for planning a baptismal reception:
Determine the guest list and budget: Decide who you want to invite to the reception and how much you are willing to spend on food, decorations, and other party expenses.
Choose a venue: Consider the size of your guest list, the season, and your budget when selecting a venue. Some popular options include a church hall, a restaurant, a park, or your home.
Set the date and time: Coordinate with the church and other key people involved in the baptism to choose a convenient date and time for the reception.
Plan the menu: Depending on the time of day and the size of your guest list, you can choose to serve a full meal, appetizers, or desserts. Consider your guests' dietary restrictions and preferences when selecting the menu.
Decorate the space: Create a festive and welcoming atmosphere by using decorations that reflect the baptismal theme, such as balloons, streamers, or religious symbols.
Consider entertainment: Depending on the age range of your guests, you may want to provide some entertainment, such as music, games, or activities for children.
Thank you gifts: Consider giving small gifts to your guests as a way to thank them for sharing in this special occasion. Some ideas include personalized candles, bookmarks, or miniature rosaries.
