Christening and Baptism gifts began as small items of monetary or material value that could be kept as an initial investment for the child's future. The gift of a silver sixpence or the lucky sovereign could be the start of a nest-egg to help the child gain independence in later life. The Victorian's influence changed the emphasis of the baptism gift from one of a purely financial nature to a gift of intrinsic value, which was originally made of sterling silver.
In line with Victorian thinking Emily Post wrote in 1922 that the standard christening gift should be a silver mug, a porridger or a set that includes a knife, fork and spoon. The item could also be marked (engraved) with the baby's name and that of the gift giver. Many traditionalists and grandparents still adhere to the Victorian influence Emily Post's advice, while also including pewter, silver and china in their gift giving ideas.
Times have changed and gift giving ideas have expanded substantially since 1922. Today it is tradition (and expected) for the Godparents to give a gift (often the gown or outfit for the ceremony). It is not essential, however, for invited guests to bring a gift to the ceremony, although it is a thoughtful expression of the importance of the day. Whether the ceremony is religious or secular (non-religious) remember that a Christening, Baptism or Naming Ceremony is a day to bring family and friends together to celebrate the child's birth and his or her life to come. This is not a time for frivolous gifts, but a time for a thoughtful gift that reflects the parent's ideals and religious affiliations.
| This day, this moment is special and should be remembered. The following gift ideas reflect the seriousness of the day and are gifts the child will use during his/her life and will thereby remember the gift giver. |
- Christening or Baptism Gown or Outfit - As noted above, the Godparent will often purchase the baby's christening or baptism gown, which traditionally is passed down through generations. Etiquette doesn't dictate that a godparent has to buy the christening outfit. But a word of caution - before giving this as a gift check with the baby's parents to make sure they don't already have other plans.
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- Religious Gifts include but are not limited to rosary beads, religious medals, wall crosses, religious or inspirational art, picture frames and sculptures. These gifts are given to remind the child as they grow of God's love and the joining of the human spirit with that of Jesus Christ
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- Piggy Banks are either religious or secular gifts - they are directly related to the giving of the original "gifts of small items of monetary or material value that could be kept as an initial investment for the child's future".
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- Baby Jewelry is another excellent religious or secular gift. Rings, bracelets, crosses and lockets are gifts for girls and boys that become keepsakes as the child grows up.
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- Photo Albums either religious or secular provide an ideal gift for collecting and sharing the moments of the day.
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- Silver and Silver Plate Keepsakes are the gifts that Emily Post spoke of. They are wonderful reminders of the day and are typically handed down from generation to generation.
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