Organising the perfect christening-type ceremony can be seriously stressful stuff – but it is manageable…
Whether you’re religious or not, it’s lovely to have some kind of official occasion to celebrate the birth of your child – if for no other reason than to get together with family and friends, you haven’t seen for ages and introduce them to your new addition.
So, whether you’re planning a christening, blessing or naming ceremony, we’ve got some top tips to make the day run smoothly – and be enjoyable!
1. Put together a great invite list
A bit like with a wedding, in-laws and grandparents can have a tendency to take over the christening guest list. Be firm and invite who you and your partner want to attend – you may have been happy to take a back seat during your wedding planning, but now you’re a parent it’s time to take control.
It’s lovely to have some kind of official occasion to celebrate the birth of your child
2. Make the ceremony personal
The actual ceremony itself will last around half an hour, but some religious services can last longer.
They’ll start with an introduction, followed by a reading, a formal announcement of the baby’s name, a promise by the parents and godparents/supporting adults and end with a reading.
‘Nowadays, parents are becoming more extravagant often following trends of famous icons,’ says Liz Reed of Elizabeth Jane Events. ‘Traditional organ ceremony music has been replaced with string quartets, harpists and singers.’
3. Decide on a clear theme
While pastel decorations still reign strong, pale yellow and beige have also become increasingly popular this year.
‘In 2013, many families have opted for a butterfly theme and no doubt Prince William and Kate Middleton will bring in further new trends with Prince George’s christening,’ Liz says.
4. Dress up your baby
Seen photos of yourself in a long lace white dress? You don’t have to go down that route for your baby. These days’ girls tend to wear dresses still but boys are often dressed in shirt and trouser sets, often made from light linen.
Check out our christening outfits gallery for inspiration.
5. Choose delicious refreshments
Just like any formal occasion, canapés are fantastic for a christening or naming ceremony. But hot bowl food popularity has increased.
‘The dessert table remains laden with cake pops, iced shortbread, mini cupcakes, maracoon towers, jars of sweets and marshmallow sticks,’ says Liz. Um, who’s got a christening coming up that we can attend?!
‘Even ice cream vans have been requested by some parents!’ Liz says.
6. Have fun-for-all-the-family entertainment
Often the entertainment will be geared towards the younger guests.
‘Magic shows, balloon modelling, storytelling, face painting, bouncy castles and soft play ball pools are all popular,’ Liz explains.
7. Get a gift list ready
If family members ask you what you would like them to buy your baby and you aren’t sure, take a look at our christening gift guide gallery for some brilliant ideas.