Princess Elizabeth and her parents at her christening in May 1926
(Picture: PA)Before their wedding, graduation day, or even their first day at school, the first landmark occasion of a Christian child’s life begins with a christening.
It’s the moment that marks their journey into faith, a sombre occasion usually followed by tea, cake and lots of gifts for the little one and/or their parents.
If you’ve been invited to the event, you may be looking for a gift to take with you. Tradition ranks silver trinkets as most popular, typically in the form of a spoon, egg cups, rattles or jewellery. Why silver? It was thought by some to symbolise independence in later life.
Another custom involves crossing the baby’s palm with silver (quite literally, via a coin) to bring good luck, health and fortune, says The Royal Mint. The idea of giving infants precious metals goes all the way back to a Bethlehem manger when one of the wise men gave new parents Mary and Joseph gold to celebrate the birth of their son, Jesus.
Times have changed, and while now few can drop a gold bullion into the crib, there are plenty of sweet gifts and keepsakes to choose from.
We’ve rounded up the best ideas for you below.
Tiffany Elsa Peretto Heart Baby Brush
If it’s luxe you’re looking for, stop by Tiffany, where alongside the diamonds, you’ll find a sweet collection of gifts for newborns. We’ve fallen headfirst for this heart-shaped baby brush to smooth their wispy strands. The piece is made with sterling silver and bristles made from the softest boar or goat hair. Personalisation available.
Buy now £190.00, Tiffany & Co
Jellycat Dory Duck soft toy 15cm
Any of Jellycat’s soft cuddly toys will make a well-received christening gift but this little fluffy duck has stolen our heart in particular. Made from ridiculously soft polyester, the toy measures 15cm tall.
Buy now £32.00, Selfridges
The Royal Mint 2022 Sterling Silver Penny Rattle
This old school gift from the Royal Mint makes a superb christening gift, nailing the silver and coinage traditions in one design. The penny on either side of the rattle dates the year; this year it will feature the first full year of the new monarch’s reign. The gift comes presented in gender-neutral packaging.
Buy now £160.00, The Royal Mint
Cartier Baby bunny-engraved spoon set
This bunny-themed 925 sterling silver spoon set comes from the house of Cartier, giving you the chance to get their fine jewellery collection off to a winning start. The keepsake features the jewellers interlocking C logo and has been crafted in Italy.
Buy now £345.00, Selfridges
G.H.Hurt & Son, Cosy Cashmere Baby Shawl, White
Stick to tradition with the gift of a lace knitted shawl for your freshly christened bundle of joy. The delicate piece will keep your little one warm while looking perfect for photos. Made from 100 per cent cashmere, the design also comes in pink and blue.
Buy now £145.00, Fortnums
Personalised Children’s Book - Peter Rabbit’s Little Guide To Life
What better christening gift than a guide to life by one of England’s most cherished children’s authors? Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit is packed with thoughtful stories and gentle advice to help your little one navigate their way. The cover can be personalised with your little one’s name and you can also have a personal message added too.
Buy now £29.99, Getting Personal
Bambino Silver Plated Carousel Money Box
A financial gift is a popular option for christenings, especially from the nominated godparents. Whether you plan to buy stocks and shares or premium bonds in their name or open a savings account for when they’re older, why not present the gift with this merry-go-round themed money box? The silver plated design features crystal set ponies and a pastel enamel top. Designed to sit pride of place on the nursery shelf.
Buy now £29.99, F.Hinds
The Portland Co Personalised Christening Papercut
Celebrate the occasion with a bespoke piece of wall art from The Portland Co. This design has been made using laser papercut and can be personalised with their name, christening date and a whole palette of different colours to suit your interiors scheme.
Buy now £20.00, NOTHS
Aspinal of London Deluxe Baby Record Book
All parents agree: little ones grow up so fast. Aspinal’s chic baby book allows you to record their biggest moments, from christenings to first birthdays and more. The book is handbound with full-grain leather with lots of illustrations inside. It’s the perfect gift as the cover can be personalised with their name and special dates.
Buy now £135.00, Aspinal of London
Arthur Price of England Silver Plated Three Piece Christening Gift Set
A silverware option with a cherry on top, this gift set includes a classic spoon as well as a napkin ring and an egg cup. Have the spoon personalised with their name or the date for an extra special touch they will cherish when they get older.
Buy now £69.00, Farrar Tanner
Royal Doulton Nursery Set: Baby Plate and Feeding Spoon
Ticking the silver box with a spoon, this nursery feeding set comes with a plate depicting a Bunnykins scene and racing bunnies on the border. The cute dining set is perfect for babies and toddlers and has all the hallmarks of an heirloom to be handed down through the generations.
Buy now £38.00, Royal Doulton
Steiff Fynn Teddy Bear and Suitcase
As one of the best teddy bear makers around, Steiff is a sound choice for a christening gift. This classic biscuit-hued design is called Fynn and is ready to join in all sorts of childhood adventures. He comes with a little suitcase that can be used for play as well as display.
Buy now £43.99, Amazon
