Planning Baby Gifts For a Tot's Christening - A Guide

You’ve just received an invite to a bub’s christening and you're stoked to be part of such a special moment. But then the question hits – what on earth do you get a baby for a christening gift? Maybe you're the godparent, a family member, or a family friend, picking out the perfect present can be a bit of a head-scratcher. You want something meaningful, maybe even keepsake-worthy, but also practical (and let’s be honest, not totally boring).

This Baby Gifts Australia guide will walk you through planning the perfect baby gift for a christening, Aussie style. Grab a cuppa and let’s get started!

Understanding the Occasion First – Why is a Christening Important?

A christening – or baptism – is a religious ceremony that celebrates a new life and symbolises welcoming the baby into their faith community. It’s a sentimental and sacred occasion, marked with formalities, prayers, and of course, a lovely get-together with family and friends afterwards. While the event is religious, not all gifts need to be – but they should generally be meaningful and respectful.

You’re About to Step in to the Final Baby Christening Gift Guide

We’ve included absolutely everything you will need to consider. Yes, it can be a lot. But, if you’re in a hurry, or have trouble finding that perfect Christening Gift for Baby…there’s no need to worry. At Baby Gifts Australia, we pack the most ideal Baby Christening Gifts, friends, family, and even acquaintances could find.

All our Baby Christening Gifts –

·         Use Christening-appropriate colours

·         Pack non-toxic, baby-safe items from certified vendors

·         All fabrics are made of organic cotton, organic bamboo, or refined sheep’s wool.

What to Consider First – Who Are You to the Baby?

Before you hit the shops or start scrolling through online stores, consider your relationship to the little one. That’ll help shape your budget and gift ideas.

• Godparents – You’re playing a special role in the bub’s life, so your gift often carries more significance. Consider keepsakes, heirlooms, or something personal.
• Grandparents/Aunties/Uncles – You’re family, so meaningful gifts with a personal touch work well – but you’ve also got a bit of room to be fun too!
• Friends/Colleagues/Extended Family – You might lean more towards practical, classic, or sweet gesture gifts that show you care without going overboard.

Traditional vs Modern Gifts

Traditionally, christening gifts were religious in nature – silver crosses, bibles, or prayer books. These still hold value for many families today, but there’s been a big shift toward more modern, versatile gifts that suit any kind of family, regardless of how formal or laid-back the christening is.

So if you're buying for a devout Catholic family or a more casual spiritual household, you’ve got a stack of options.

Classic and Thoughtful Gift Ideas

Here are a few timeless ideas that are still very popular for christenings –

1. Personalised Gifts
   From engraved jewellery to custom baby books or name plaques, anything with the baby’s name and date of christening is always a winner. It shows effort, and it becomes a keepsake for years to come.
   
   
2. Silver Keepsakes
   Think silver rattles, spoons, money boxes or picture frames. They’re charming, elegant, and totally gift-worthy.
   
   
3. Children’s Bible or Storybook
   If you know the family is religious, a beautiful children’s bible or a book of gentle faith-based stories is a heartfelt gift.
   
   
4. Jewellery
   For baby girls, a delicate bracelet or necklace is a sweet gesture. Some are even adjustable to be worn as they grow.
   
   
5. Christening Blanket or Shawl
   These can be personalised and used on the day, then tucked away as a treasured memento.

Modern and Practical Gift Ideas

For something a bit more low-key or practical (especially if you’re unsure how traditional the family is), here are some crowd-pleasers –

1. Custom Artwork for the Nursery
   A personalised print with the baby’s name, birth date or christening date makes for a beautiful addition to the nursery wall.
   
   
2. Savings Bonds or Bank Account Contributions
   Not very glamorous, but super practical! Contributing to a savings account or gifting a small bond helps start their future nest egg.
   
   
3. Memory Boxes
   A gorgeous box where parents can store cards, hospital bracelets, or other keepsakes – a lovely way to honour milestones.
   
   
4. Books With Personal Notes
   Gifting a few beautifully illustrated baby books with handwritten messages inside makes for a touching and long-lasting gift.
   
   
5. Ethical or Sustainable Toys
   Wooden toys, knitted plush animals, or handmade pieces from local artisans are unique and meaningful.

DIY & Handmade Options

If you’re the crafty type or you want to go the extra mile, handmade gifts always stand out. No matter if it’s a crocheted blanket, a hand-painted toy box, or a custom-made mobile for the cot, your effort will never go unnoticed.

Tip – If you’re baking or creating something edible (like cookies or a cake), make sure to include a keepsake element – otherwise it’ll be enjoyed and gone before anyone remembers who brought it!

How Much Should You Spend?

There’s no hard rule, but here’s a general guide –

• Close family or godparents – $50 to $150+
• Friends or extended family – $30 to $70
• Colleagues or acquaintances – $20 to $50

Ultimately, it’s the thought behind the gift that counts. A $25 book with a handwritten note could mean far more than a $100 generic gift.

Presentation Matters

Even if you’ve nailed the perfect gift, don’t forget to present it nicely. Wrap it up with love – you can choose soft pastel wrapping, neutral tones, or a simple box with ribbon. Pop in a heartfelt card with a message the family can keep. Something like –

“Wishing you and little [baby’s name] all the love and blessings on this special day. May their journey be filled with joy, love, and endless cuddles.”

Christenings are beautiful, heartwarming celebrations – and your gift doesn’t need to be over-the-top to be appreciated. Whether you go classic, modern, practical, or handmade, the key is to choose something with meaning, love, and a touch of thoughtfulness.

So take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and give from the heart. That little bub (and their family) will remember the gesture long after the day is done.