Jump to a specific section to answer your question:
- Do You Give a Gift for a Baptism?
- What if You Can’t Attend the Baptism?
- How Much Should a Baptism Gift Cost?
- Baptism Gift Ideas for Both Genders
- Is Cash Appropriate for a Baptism?
- Baptism Gifts from Godparents
- Do You Give Godparents a Gift at a Baptism?
- Do You Give a Donation to the Priest or Church for a Baptism?
Do You Give a Gift for a Baptism?
Yes, it’s customary to give a gift for a baptism, even if you already gave a baby shower gift. A baptism is a separate, religious milestone, and gifting something to mark the occasion is a thoughtful gesture. Your baptism gift doesn’t have to be large or expensive—religious keepsakes, personalized items, or books that commemorate the day are meaningful and appropriate options. If you’re close to the family or a godparent, consider something more personal to reflect the significance of the event.
What if You Can’t Attend the Baptism?
If you can’t attend the baptism, it’s still appropriate to send a gift. A card with a heartfelt message or a small, meaningful gift like a personalized frame or religious token can be sent to the family. It’s a kind way to show that you’re thinking of them, even from afar.
How Much Should a Baptism Gift Cost?
Baptism gifts don’t need to be extravagant. The typical range is between $20 and $100, depending on your relationship to the child and family. Close relatives or godparents might opt for a more personalized or higher-value gift, while friends or extended family can give something modest but meaningful.
Baptism Gift Ideas for Both Genders
Selecting a baptism gift that’s suitable for any child, regardless of gender, can be simple and meaningful. Consider timeless gifts like personalized storybooks, custom photo frames, or religious keepsakes that celebrate the child’s spiritual milestone. A classic option is a personalized blanket or a decorative plaque with a meaningful quote or Bible verse. For a touch of tradition, silver gifts such as engraved spoons or cups are also well-regarded. These gender-neutral options ensure that your gift is both thoughtful and appropriate for the occasion.
Personalized Baptism Gift Ideas
From personalized books to keepsake jewelry, find the ideal personalized baptism gift to honor the occasion and make it memorable.
1. “God Loves You” Personalized Story Book
This personalized children’s book is the perfect baptism gift for your loved one. “God Loves You” personalized story book puts them right into the story and is a timeless gift for this special occasion.
2. Personalized Christmas Ornament
Celebrate the baptism year after year with a personalized Christmas ornament. You can add the child’s name, baptism date, or a special message to create a keepsake that will hang on the tree for years to come. This thoughtful gift serves as a yearly reminder of the special day and will become a cherished family tradition.
3. Personalized Photo Frame
Capture the joy of the baptism day with a personalized photo frame. Shutterfly offers a variety of frames that can be customized with the child’s name, baptism date, and a special message. Insert a cherished photo from the baptism ceremony to create a beautiful keepsake that can be displayed in the home.
4. Baptism Photo Book
Preserve the memories of the baptism day in a custom photo book. Shutterfly’s photo books allow you to curate a collection of photos from the ceremony, add captions, and choose from various layouts and themes. This thoughtful gift will allow the child and their family to revisit the special moments of their baptism for years to come.
5. Wall Art
Create a unique piece of custom wall art to commemorate the baptism day. We offer a vast selection of canvas prints, framed prints, and more that can be personalized with the child’s name, a meaningful quote, or a Bible verse. This gift will add a touch of beauty and spirituality to any room.
6. Keepsake Box
A keepsake box provides a safe place to store mementos and keepsakes from the baptism day.
7. Baby Blanket
Wrap the child in love and warmth with a personalized blanket or baby blanket. This cozy and comforting gift will remind the child of their baptism day and the love surrounding them.
8. Jewelry
A piece of personalized jewelry can be a cherished gift for the child. Our collection of personalized necklaces and bracelets can be engraved with the child’s name, baptism date, or a meaningful symbol.
Is Cash Appropriate for a Baptism?
Yes, cash is a perfectly acceptable baptism gift, especially if you’re unsure what the family might need. You can present it in a card with a kind message. Cash gifts are practical and appreciated, allowing parents to decide how best to use it for their child. Follow our guide on What to Write in a Baptism Card for inspiration on what to say with your cash gift.
Baptism Gifts from Godparents
Godparents hold a special role in the child’s life, and their gift often reflects that significance. Popular options include personalized keepsakes like engraved crosses, jewelry, or Bibles that the child can cherish as they grow. A long-standing tradition for godparents is to give silver gifts, such as silver spoons, cups, or keepsake boxes, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity for the child. Whether you choose a modern or traditional gift, the key is to select something that honors your special relationship and the importance of the occasion.
Do You Give Godparents a Gift at a Baptism?
While other guests at the baptism do not receive gifts from the parents, most of the time godparents do. Gifts should not be expected by a godparent, however, it is custom for the parents to give them a gift. Usually there will be a time for parents to present a gift to the godparents. The godparents will then exchange their gifts to the family at this time. If you are giving the godparents a gift, almost anything, within reason, goes. Silver jewelry all the way to engraved frames with a picture in them are appropriate to give to godparents. You are most likely close to the godparents of your child, so think of something that they would enjoy and go with that.
Do You Give a Donation to the Priest or Church for a Baptism?
It’s customary in many churches to offer a donation or stipend to the priest who performs the baptism. The amount can vary but is typically between $25 and $100. You can check with the church office for specific guidelines or suggestions regarding donations.
Related Resources on Baptism Gift Etiquette
Baptisms are a special time for a child and their family. Whether you choose to give the child a physical gift or a monetary one, it is all about being thoughtful. Whatever you decide to give for the baptism, make sure to include a meaningful message. If you are the parent of the child consider donating money to the church or priest. You may also think to give the godparents of your child a gift to show a token of your appreciation!
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