The christening of a baby is a sacred occasion for parents and a deeply spiritual time. The actual christening ceremony typically includes close family members and friends, with everyone being witness as a new life is officially welcomed into the world, baptized, and dedicated to God. Most parents, grandparents, or godparents buy the baby christening gifts. For instance, the baby would need a christening outfit, which is white and something saved as a keepsake.
For a little girl, you will find several gorgeous gowns, some long and silky while others are short but still with ruffles and lace. One of the most popular choices is the smocked yoke, which is long and usually hand-smocked from the shoulders down to the waist. This type of christening gown is often made with soft, puffy sleeves enhanced with ribbon. Then, around the neck, the bottom of the sleeves, and the hemline, you might see delicate eyelet lace. Underneath the gown, a batiste slip is worn. Other christening items to complete the outfit include a lace bonnet, white cotton socks, and silk slippers or Mary Jane booties.
For a baby boy, special outfits are also available. In this case, the baby might be dressed in a pleated front cotton sateen overall. Unlike pants and a shirt, the one-piece design is smart and handsomely tailored. This christening outfit has clean lines on the front, which are typically embellished with buttons. The sleeves for the boy would be cuffed, as well as the pant leg. For the final touch, a matching sateen hat, white socks, and soft booties would be worn.
In addition to the christening outfit being a gift from close family, another great gif option would be a soft, cuddly blanket. Christening blankets are typically made from 100% acrylic and machine washable. While there are various sizes, most people choose one measuring 38 x 44 inches, which is the perfect size for the christening ceremony. Some of the blankets sold are simply white while others have a nice, tiny pattern. Depending on the style, you may find blankets with appliqués, interwoven ribbon, or other special borders.
If you will not be buying the actual christening outfit but want to offer a baby, christening gift in support of the parents in their important decision, there are many great options. One of these gift ideas is a personalized name bracelet, which can be worn by both a baby girl and boy. Christening bracelets are made in many wonderful colors as well as block size with each designed to spell out the baby’s name.
Other embellishments include pearls, crystals, silver Bali beads, and natural gemstones. The bracelets are created using elastic for ultimate comfort and so the child can easily wear the bracelet for several years. The christening bracelet is considered an heirloom piece of jewelry that is worn for the christening as well as other special occasions such as first communion, first birthday, and so on. Once the child has outgrown the bracelet, it is then stored away for his or her own child. At that time, the block letters can be traded out and embellishments changed.