A christening or naming ceremony is a baby's first big occasion. Whether you are a godparent, grandparent, or guest — the right gift becomes a memory for a lifetime.
Here are the best tips for finding the perfect gift, whatever your relationship and style.
Traditional Christening Gifts
These classic gifts stand the test of time and remain beloved across generations.
Silver Keepsakes
Silver gifts for babies have been a popular christening tradition for well over a century.
Popular choices:
- Silver spoon — The ultimate classic. Can be engraved with the baby's name and date
- Silver cutlery set — Spoon, fork, and pusher as a set
- Silver cup — Practical and decorative, with space for engraving
- Napkin ring — Elegant and timeless
Silver keepsakes carry meaning beyond the metal. Pieces engraved with a name, birth date, length, and weight become irreplaceable family heirlooms.
Where to find silver baby gifts:
- Tiffany & Co. — Classic engraved silver pieces
- Wedgwood — Silver and porcelain baby gifts
- Artisan silversmiths — Many offer personalized, handcrafted pieces
- Antique markets — Vintage silver pieces often have a unique history and charm
Jewelry
- Bracelet with name or initials
- Pendant with birthstone
- A small cross or other meaningful symbol (for religious ceremonies)
Modern Christening Gifts
Prefer something more contemporary? Here are popular modern alternatives.
Personalized Gifts
Personalized gifts show you put extra thought into the choice:
- Name plaque for the nursery wall
- Photo book or album from the ceremony day
- Embroidered wool blanket with the baby's name
- Milestone cards for the first year
Financial Gifts
A gift that grows with the child:
- Savings account — Set one up and deposit an amount
- Investment account — A long-term gift that could grow significantly by the time the child is an adult
- Piggy bank in silver — Combines tradition with practicality
Even a modest amount in a savings or investment account at christening can grow considerably over 18 years. It is a gift that truly grows.
Experience Gifts
Give an experience instead of a thing:
- Baby swimming lessons
- Baby massage class
- Family photography session
- Gift card for a baby store
Gifts by Relationship
Godparents
As a godparent, your gift is often a bit more personal and thoughtful:
- Silver keepsake with engraving — Silver spoon, cutlery, or cup
- Personalized blanket — Embroidered wool blanket with name and date
- Financial gift — Savings or investment account that grows with the child
- Gold jewelry — Pendant with initials or birthstone
Grandparents
Grandparents often give something that lasts:
- High chair (Stokke Tripp Trapp or similar) — A design classic that grows with the child
- Quality wool clothing — Premium merino wool for a newborn
- Silver cup with engraving — Timeless and valuable
- Heirloom items — Something with family history
Friends and Other Guests
A thoughtful gift does not need to cost a lot:
- Children's books — A curated set of classic picture books
- Stuffed animal with name — Personal and sweet
- Photo frame with engraving — For the first portrait
- Muslin cloths — Practical and always welcome
Religious Christening vs. Non-Religious Naming Ceremony
Many families today celebrate with a non-religious naming ceremony rather than a traditional church christening. The gifts are largely the same, with a few differences:
Religious Christening
- Religious symbols (cross, angel) are common
- Godparents traditionally give a bit more
- Traditional silver is most common
- Engraved jewelry is popular
Naming Ceremony
- More secular gifts
- Personalized and creative gifts are popular
- Modern design is often preferred
- Experiences are well received
Whether it is a christening or naming ceremony, the thought behind the gift matters most. A thoughtful gift is just as valuable regardless of size.
The Godparent's Role and Gift
As a godparent, you have a special role in the child's life. It is generally expected that your gift is a bit more personal and considered than other guests'.
Popular Godparent Gifts
- Silver keepsake with engraving — Classic and timeless
- Financial gift/savings account — Practical and forward-looking
- Handwritten letter + gift — Personal and moving
- Godparent promise — A written pledge to be present in the child's life
Expectations
There is no set rule for what a godparent gift should cost. What matters most is not the amount, but that the gift shows you take the role seriously and have given it genuine thought.
Gifts to Avoid
Not all gifts suit a christening. Here are some to steer clear of:
- Newborn-sized clothing — The baby has likely already outgrown this by the ceremony
- Toys with small parts — Not age-appropriate
- Heavily fragranced products — Can irritate baby skin
- Overly personal gifts without knowing the family well
Secondhand and Sustainable Options
Much baby equipment can be bought secondhand in excellent condition. Babies grow fast, and things are often barely used.
- eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or local buy-and-sell groups — Great for secondhand finds
- Vintage shops and thrift stores — Check for quality silver pieces with character
Tip: Quality secondhand items can carry extra meaning at a christening. Vintage silver, family heirlooms, and secondhand books in good condition are beautiful, sustainable alternatives. Many find stunning, timeless silver pieces on the secondhand market with a history of their own.
Wrapping and Card
A nice presentation makes the gift extra special:
- Use quality paper in soft, muted colors
- Write a personal card with wishes for the child
- Include a receipt discreetly (in case of exchange)
- For silver pieces: ask for a gift box from the store
Frequently Asked Questions
What is typically given as a christening gift?
The most common christening gifts are silver keepsakes (spoon, cutlery, cup), personalized gifts with engraving, and financial gifts. The budget varies depending on your relationship — what matters most is the thought behind the gift.
Can you give money as a christening gift?
Yes. Many families appreciate cash, especially for a savings account for the child. Put it in a beautiful card with a personal message. Alternatively, set up a savings or investment account in the child's name.
What do godparents typically give?
Godparents traditionally give a bit more than other guests. A silver keepsake with engraving is the classic godparent gift, but personalized gifts and financial gifts are also popular. The most important thing is that the gift reflects the significance of the role.
Summary
The best christening gift is one that shows care and thought. Whether you choose timeless silver, a personalized gift, or a savings account for the future — what matters most is that the gift comes from the heart.
Read More
- Godparent guide: Everything about the role, the gift, and the tradition
- Unique christening gift ideas
- Practical baby gifts the family will actually use
- New baby gift guide
Sources
- Historical tradition sources on christening gifts and silver keepsakes.
- Consumer research on popular baby shower and christening gifts.