As a godparent, you’re tasked with keeping a tiny tot on the religious path their parents chose for them. You’re also the witness to the child’s baptism into their faith. This role isn’t something to take lightly, and it starts the moment your loved one’s child is baptized or christened. Understanding this role and commemorating it with modern or traditional godparent gifts is vital. Here’s a closer look at what it means to be a godparent and what the best practices for godparent gift etiquette are.
What Is the Obligation of Godparents?
Being chosen as a godparent is a tremendous honor, but it also comes with some responsibilities. These start at the little one’s christening or baptism ceremony. The godparent’s job is to stand with the parents and serve as a witness to this ceremony, and the Baptism Certificate will carry your name.
Most parents who choose godparents for their children are religious, so the godparent is tasked with helping the baby grow in their faith. They may become a faith mentor, and if the parents can’t guide the child in their religion, then the godparent stands in.
That’s it. Your obligation is to observe the ceremony and help guide the child in their faith, but it’s also traditional to buy gifts for a godchild at the baptism. Because of the faith-based nature of being a godparent, many choose to use a religious time, like a commemorative Bible or piece of jewelry, for this gift, but you can also give a personalized blanket or even a baptism outfit, depending on what you want.
Is It Customary to Give a Gift to Godparents?
Much has been said about giving a gift as a godparent to the little cherub, but if you’re a parent who is appointing a godparent for your child, why not include them in the gift-giving? A plaque or sign, rosary, prayer journal, or even a small figurine to commemorate the occasion can all be quite meaningful godparent thank-you gifts. The godparent is giving their time and a gift to your child, and you can reciprocate with a gift to the godparent to solidify the relationship.
Is It Customary to Buy a Gift for a Christening?
Buying a gift for a christening or baptism is pretty customary, especially for godparents. Often, godparent to godchild gifts are monetary donations, such as assets that the little one may use later for college or adult expenses, but you may also want to look at some traditional godparent gifts. After all, what’s cuter than a tiny bundle of joy wrapped in a soft white blanket embroidered with their name? These become treasured keepsakes that are passed down to the next generation, so your relationship as a godparent will be remembered for a long time.
Do Godparents Have to Give a Gift?
Godparent gift etiquette indicates it’s an expected token, but there is no rule saying you have to give a gift. You’ve been chosen because of your relationship with the parents and the child, and if a gift isn’t possible, the family will still love to have you stand with them. That said, there are many godparent gift ideas that fit a smaller budget, so don’t rule out the option of giving something smaller and affordable. As always, it's the thought that counts!
What Do Godparents Give as Gifts?
Because of the faith-based nature of being a godparent, many choose to use a religious time, like a commemorative Bible or piece of jewelry, for this gift, but you can also give a personalized blanket or even a baptism outfit, depending on what you want.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your gift-giving. Is there something that’s memorable to you and the babe’s parents? Incorporate that, if it’s appropriate for a little one, into the gift. Do the parents love photography? A customized picture frame or photo album to commemorate the occasion could be a perfect gift. Do you need a small token to go along with financial gifts for a godchild? Then why not opt for a pair of socks with a delicate cross embroidered on them or a delicate bracelet to wear to the baptism? There are so many options—you can really get creative with this gift.
Bless the Darling in Your Life with Custom Godparent Gifts
Becoming a godparent comes with some responsibilities, but it’s a tremendous honor. It’s an honor worth celebrating, and godparent gifts are a great way to do so. If you’re stepping into this role, Baby Beau & Belle has a large selection of godparent gifts. Shop now to find the one that matches your tastes, and give a gift that will be a treasured keepsake for generations.