A Christening Gift That Lasts a Lifetime

A silver napkin ring is still one of the most popular and lasting gifts given to babies at their Christening. This may seem an odd choice since, sadly, fewer and fewer families eat together on a daily basis around the dinner table and the majority of those that do will use a paper serviette in preference to a linen napkin. But the tradition of napkin rings as Christening gifts endures.

Before the 19th Century, napkins were tied with a strip of colored ribbon or named tape. This was a purely practical response to domestic life at the time. Since washday took place only once a week, linen napkins were only washed once a week, so each individual napkin had its own unique tie to identify its owner. The idea of using the same napkin for a whole week may not appeal to us now in more hygienic times, but, as we can see, the simple napkin ring was born of necessity, not for decoration.

The first recorded examples of napkin rings made from silver date from the early 1800's, but it was during the later Victorian period that the silver napkin ring came into its own. For middle and upper class Victorians, the display of wealth at the dinner table was an essential declaration of status. The more ostentatiously decorated your table, the higher up the social pecking order you could place yourself. A sort of Victorian "Banqueting Bling". Of course the Victorians would never admit to being so overtly brash, so their blatant bragging had to be passed off as etiquette - a social nicety.

So there, amongst the candelabra, elaborate table centres and ornate cutlery, you will find the humble napkin ring doing its bit for Victorian propriety. The silver napkin ring became yet another "must have" gift for Christenings and weddings in Victorian and Edwardian society.

The arrival of disposable paper napkins and serviettes should have sounded the death knell of the napkin ring at dinner tables everywhere, but this traditional piece of tableware is becoming ever more popular. In a world where everything is disposable and transient, the napkin ring is a personal possession that is treasured for life. The napkin ring presented at a baby’s Christening is highly likely to appear at the dinner table on their 80th birthday.

Napkin rings come in all shapes and sizes, from round and oval to octagonal and square. Plain or ornately decorated, they are often engraved with the owner’s initials and, sometimes, their date of birth. As such, napkin rings are very personal possessions. Every member of the family can identify their own napkin ring. Silver napkin rings have become popular as Christening gifts for this very reason. There are few presents that are so personal to the individual and that can be used and treasured for a whole lifetime.

The napkin ring has little religious significance (you are highly unlikely to have found one at the Last Supper) and it can make no major aesthetic claims for beauty and design, but, if you are looking for a Christening gift that will stand the test of time – look no further.

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  Bible Quotes for Christening/Baptism

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Romans 6:3

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4

Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. Colossians 2:12

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. Mark 16:16

And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the  Lord.Acts 22:16

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38

Acts 8:12 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Acts 8:13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41

And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized. John 3:23

Mark 1:4 John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. Mark 1:5 And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

Matthew 3:1 In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, Matthew 3:2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:3 For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Matthew 3:4 And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. Matthew 3:5 Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, Matthew 3:6 And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

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Choices for Memorable Baptism and Christening Invitations

One could start to think outside the box by surprising everyone with an original and memorable baptism or christening invitation. Some of the ways in which one could do this is by taking toys or material objects that represent your baby or christenings, and create an invitation out of it.

 Using Items to their Full Potential

 Create a teddy bear invitation, with a mini-stuffed teddy bear. You could attach a ribbon or bow that is wrapped around its neck or stomach, and a rolled-up invitation attached. This is a simple yet excitingly different invitation for a most memorable occasion, and the bear itself can be kept for years to come as a useful bedtime friend.

Instead of using angel ornaments as decoration on your Christmas tree, you could modify them into a unique baptism or christening invitation. One could either make or buy angel ornaments and by using the same concept as the teddy bear invitation mentioned above, either attach the rolled up invite by a ribbon, or otherwise attach the angel onto it. However, a word of warning when creating these angels from scratch is that although it can be fun and interesting, you may be inviting 150 people to the event, and making 150 angels may turn from fun to fearsomely boring!

There is nothing wrong with sticking to the tried and tested and merely adapting the idea to suit your occasion better. For example, a cross as an object to accompany the invitation has been done before, often blue for the boys and pink for the girls. You can take this one step further, and have the main beam of the cross-engraved with the name or initials of the child to be baptized or christened. The similar concept of simplicity is found in the attaching of a pacifier to an invite, in the respective colors.

 Clothes are not only for wearing

 People have often used small doll-like clothing to accompany invitations in the same manner in which the above ornaments or bears have been used. However one is blessed with amazing technology everywhere, and today we are able to embroider the most incredible things onto small articles of clothing. So why not make the clothing itself the invite? Choose a dress for a little girl and shirt and pants (stitched together) for a little boy, for a sweet and small invitation. On these small items of clothing you can embroider all the relevant information that would commonly be found on the generic baptism or christening invite.

 One of the more popular ideas is to choose a photo of your baby and print the invitation on the reverse side, or have the text of the invitation superimposed over the image. This concept could be easily modified or expanded on by creating a 'frame' around the baby's photo, this can be a store-bought frame, or even one made at home using items such as doctor’s tongue depressors painted silver, gold, or any color you prefer. For a special touch, an engraved or stamped frame is one, which can be kept forever by the recipients.

If you have a talent for poetry, or simply a favorite poem, adding this to your invitations is a lovely way of injecting a personal touch. Superimpose the text over a black-and-white toned baby photo for a classic look. Finish it off with a ribbon or a tiny baby toy, and you have a simple, elegant invitation that is not at all time-consuming to put together. This is definitely an advantage if you are hosting a large event.

The Real Unique Invites

 Candles come in various shapes and sizes and these days you can even personalize candles. For example, you can have your invite molded inside a candle just below the surface. The great novelty about this is that you can personalize the invite first, with a picture or poem. The candle is then placed in the mold, and after it has been made, can be finished with a flower or ribbon.

And finally for the more extravagant, one could take the rattle concept a little further. It is customary in some cultures to give the child silver gifts, like a bracelet, cross and necklace or even a silver rattle. A mini silver finished rattle with the initials engraved would be a most striking and memorable invite for any baptism or christening.

These ideas could ensure you that your christening is going to be unique, creative and fun, thus making it memorable for not only you but also all who attend. There are many creative ways to create invitations for a Baptism or Christening but the most memorable are those that are hand crafted. These personalized invitations allow you have unique stationery that your guests may have not seen before.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/copyright-articles/choices-for-memorable-baptism-and-christening-invitations-673203.html

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Why Are Babies Baptized? Aren't They Too Young To Accept Jesus?

Obviously, infants cannot understand the change of allegiance, the putting off of the old and putting on of the new, the dying and rising, the new life, or the sharing in the life of Christ. However, the parents of those infants can understand and live those values and pass them on to their children. They can also experience the support of the community in living those ideals, and that is extremely important.

Infant Baptism only makes sense if parents are true Christian disciples. If they are not, then it makes little sense to initiate their children into a Church which calls for a commitment to living the mission of Christ.

The Rite of Baptism for Children emphasizes the importance of faithfulness on the part of parents when it says to parents: In asking to have your children baptized, "you are accepting the responsibility of training them in the practice of the faith." That word practice is crucial; it calls for Christian modeling on the part of parents.

Children learn to be Christian by osmosis, by experiencing Christianity at home. The "domestic church" prepares children for the local and world Church. It is in the home, in the domestic church, that children first learn basic trust which is the foundation of faith. Without the experience of faith, hope and commitment in the home, children will not be able to know and understand the larger Church.

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Christening and Naming Ceremony Invitation Wordings

Christening and naming ceremony invitations can have a wide range of wordings - these days there is no real right or wrong and the wording for christenings/baptism, thanksgiving and naming ceremonies are generally interchangeable. People tend to choose wording that is most appropriate for the atmosphere they are trying to create for the event.

The invitation will usually come from the parents of the child, although very occasionally the godparents get a mention, for example if they are helping out with the cost.

Generally, surnames are used only in the most formal of invitations:  

Lisa and Adam Smith
request the pleasure of your company
at the christening of their son

Using nicknames eg Lizzie rather than Elizabeth would be appropriate for a more informal atmosphere or where all the guests would normally use the nickname.

Lisa and Adam
would like to invite you
to join them at the christening of

For a very relaxed feel, leave out the parent's names altogether (although you might want to add them to the RSVP information to avoid any confusion). 

Please join us for the Baptism of our son

You’re invited to the naming of

Some parents want to emphasize a very family focused event by including older siblings on the invitation:

Lisa, Adam, Jolie and Jordan
would like you to join them
to celebrate the naming of

The usual format is to have child's name on a separate line to give it impact.  

Lisa and Adam would like you to join them
to celebrate the Christening of

Brandon Michael

Generally the first name and middle name is used, although the surname can be included if it hasn't already been used for the parents.  This can also be useful to clarify the name the child will use if the parents have different surnames

Lisa and Adam would like you to join them
to celebrate the Christening of

Brandon Michael Smith

The standard format would be to give the time, date and the place for the ceremony:

At St Andrew's Church, Bangor
on 5th August at 12.30pm

Sunday 5th August 2008 at 12.30pm
at St Andrew’s Church

To be held at home on August 5th at 12.30pm

 For a reception in a venue the wording is usually

Reception to follow at
Saratoga Hotel, Randleswood Road, Bangor

or

Afterwards at Saratoga Hotel, Randleswood Road, Bangor

Where the reception is at home the wording can simply be:

Afterwards at home

or

And afterwards at their house

This can be followed by the home address or the address can be included in the RSVP information.

To give guests a bit more of an idea of what to expect wordings can be customized, for example:

Followed by a BBQ at our home

Followed by afternoon tea at our home

And to celebrate afterwards at their home

and afterwards at
at 89 Plaza Drive, Bangor
for drinks and lunch to celebrate

For a naming ceremony where the reception is in the same place as the ceremony, the wording can be adapted as follows:

and afterwards
for drinks and a buffet

And to lunch afterwards

And we hope that you’ll stay for some lunch afterwards

Traditionally guests would respond in writing to the home address.

RSVP to 89 Plaza Drive, Bangor, ME 01223

For a more contemporary look or where time is short, an email address or telephone number can be included:

RSVP to 89 Plaza Drive, Bangor, ME 01223
Email: lisa_smith@gmailmail.com

Including a date by which to respond is becoming more common and can help with planning particularly where guest numbers need to be confirmed in advance.

RSVP by 14th July 2008 to
89 Plaza Drive, Bangor, ME 01223

Where the home address has already been used, the following wording is suitable:

RSVP to the above address

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Christening Poetry Verse #1

God grant your little one
All the blessing of His gentle love

 ************************

Baptism Poetry Verse #2

Today is your Baptism
Best wishes, this card, sends
As you're christened... (State Name)
Before your family and friends

 ************************

Christening Poem #3

Today.......
At (Name of Baby)'s Christening
The Lord will be there
Watching and listening

***************************

Christening Poetry Verse #4

A child is a precious gift from God
And baptism is God's gift wrapping

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  History of the Christening Gown

Up until the seventeenth century, young babies were tightly wrapped in swaddling clothes and carried to the font in a "bearing cloth". This was a large square piece
of silk, edged with trimmings of gold lace and braid. 

The Christening robe, as we know it today, evolved in the mid-eighteenth century when babies were freed of swaddling at an earlier age. In white silk, the earliest surviving examples have a front opening which was either fastened with ribbon ties or left open to show a petticoat beneath. The decorative curving lines of braid are similar to those applied to women's gowns of the period.

 The first Christening robes were made in the style worn every day by eighteenth-century children: both boy and girl babies wore "slip" dresses, with a very long, flowing skirt falling from a short, tucked bodice and a low neck and short sleeves. Other items of clothing such as bonnets and bootees could be made to go with the robe. A number of exquisite Christening sets survived from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, including bibs, head bands, mittens and pincushion covers or handkerchiefs in embroidered linen.

 Victorian babies were dressed in gowns decorated with Ayrshire work, a delicate form of white-on-white embroidery that originated in the Scottish Lowlands.

 An old Scottish custom involved pinning a piece of shortbread to the Christening robe, to be worn throughout the ceremony. An unmarried girl who ate the shortbread afterwards was sure to dream of her future husband that night. It was also thought essential for the baby to sleep in its Christening robe for the first night after baptism, to bring luck and good health in the future.

 A Timeless Tradition

 The same fashion has remained popular for Christenings ever since. This is partly due to the tradition of handling Christening robes down from one generation to the next, so that dozens of babies may wear the same gown over many years. 

 If there’s no antique gown in your family, you can create an heirloom for future generations with a gown from our range which has been made in the traditional method in fine natural pure silk, embellished with delicate embroidery and tucking.

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Baby Baptism Party Ideas - How to Personalize Your Baby's Christening With Photos

Your baby's baptism is a special and spiritual event meant to be shared with family and friends.  Whether you're planning a small get together at your home after the church service or an elaborate reception to celebrate, you'll want to commemorate this important day.  Here are some easy ideas you can use to personalize your baby's christening with photos.

1. Photo baptism invitations are a wonderful way to set the stage for your baby's special day.  You can include one or more photos of your precious little angel, plus information on the church service and a request to share the celebration after the ceremony.  It's a great way to introduce your little one to those who may never have met him in person. These photo christening invitations will stand out and get your invitation noticed.

2. Photo baptism bookmarks can be given either to each person who attends your baby's christening service at the church, or just to family and friends who celebrate with you later.  But either way, they're unique keepsakes.   There's room for your baby's photo and a personalized message.  You can even add a favorite Bible verse.  They're especially appropriate for the occasion, because they can hold a place in the Bibles of your guests as a constant reminder of your baby's christening. 

3. Photo baptism favors are available in a variety of products.  Photo magnets are a popular choice, because it is inevitable that they will end up prominently displayed on your guest's refrigerators.   There are photo candles, coasters, keyrings and mirrors, just to name a few. 

Sweet treats are another good choice for photo christening favors.  You can make your own photo candy bar wrappers, download free templates from the internet or have them made for you.  These wrappers replace the brand name ones on standard chocolate bars.  Or for something even more unusual,  you can order photo chocolate lollipop favors, which contain your baby's photo and personalization.  The photo is actually printed right onto the chocolate itself using safe, tasteless food dyes. 

4. Photo baptism centerpieces are easy to make.  Place teddy bears on your table and have each of them hold a small framed photo of your baby.  To take it a step further, you can find angel bears on the internet or pick up a pair of teddy bear wings and accessories at your local Build-A-Bear.

Another idea is to use flower pots spray painted a pastel color. Fill with styrofoam.  Take heavy gauge craft wire, cut to different lengths, coil, and then flatten the coil.  Stick the uncoiled ends into the styrofoam, and slip photos of your baby into the flattened coils. 

5. A photo baptism memory book is one of the nicest gifts you can give to your baby as a tribute to the occasion.  Because he is too young to remember this day, you can document it for him.  Take lots of photos of your baby and your guests.  Don't forget to take snapshots of the outside of the church, as well as the party decorations at the reception.  Include the photo invitations and a photo favor.  Have each of the guests write a comment on a page that you slip into the memory book.

As you can see, it doesn't take much effort to personalize your baby's baptism with photos. You can be sure your guests will appreciate and admire the pictures of your baby as they join in this joyful celebration.  After all, it's all about your little one and his christening day.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/baby-baptism-party-ideas-how-to-personalize-your-babys-christening-with-photos-626993.html

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What's The Difference Between A Baptism And A Christening?

The short answer is that both designate the same sacrament; there is no essential difference.

The word Baptism is adapted from the Greek word for the sacramental bath that connects us to Christ, introduces us to church membership, and provides us with a new name by which we are known in the church. This word is familiar to all believers.

The word christening is widely used, perhaps more in Protestant circles than Catholic, but not as the official name for the sacrament. In fact its familiar reference to launching a ship or test-driving new equipment or naming just about anything may taint it in some believers' minds. So maybe we should consider putting Christ back into christening much as we speak of putting Christ back into Christmas

The terms christen and christening (with various spellings) have a long history in the English language stretching back almost a thousand years, Their earliest meanings were "baptize" and "Baptism," and both Shakespeare and Chaucer used them in that sense. We are reminded that our language of belief and prayer has always been enriched by unofficial expressions that complement the "right" words of approved theological formulations.

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Essential Tips for Choosing And Writing A Baptism Thank You Card
By: Geraldine Jozefiak

Choosing and writing a Baptism Thank You card has never been more difficult. The days of the plain baptism thank you card are numbered. They've been overtaken by an array of colorful, and personalized cards that help us show appreciation for the kindness shared on our baby's special day.

Now you can, if you choose have your own photograph of baby immortalized on individual Baptism Thank You cards. Various companies allow you to add Baptism details along with a choice of other embellishments.

Personalized cards though aren't everyone's choice. Some of us still resort to the old-fashioned' pen and paper letter writing route. Whilst this of course is still a great option, you may like to choose some special textured paper on which to share your gratitude for gifts received. It's a joy to write on special paper, especially as it is paper selected especially for this one occasion.

Don't forget to buy sufficient paper and matching envelopes for your needs. Some of us write 'large' so you may find yourself using two sheets. That's even more likely if you chose small sized paper.

If you've a creative streak you may prefer to make your own special handmade thank you cards. This would really give you a chance to be inventive. If you've got the time, this is a great idea. You could personalize some bought cards with your own touch of ribbon or bow etc.

Thank you cards for baby's Baptism or Naming Day may be one time when you want to 'push the boat out'. What kind of special card could you choose or create that would help you celebrate the day?

The event is certainly a notable one in yours, your baby's, and the larger family group's memory. Marking the occasion with some well-chosen cards will be something that you can all look back on in the years to come.

It's worth spending a bit of time looking around at what's available so as not to limit your options. Don't be tempted to rush for the bog standard' off-the-shelf pre-package, unless that of course suits your budget, and your emotions. Think about the part the thank you card plays in rounding off' the special event in your lives.

Whilst it is you the parent writing the cards, you do so on behalf of your little one. As such, you're building his/her relationship with those who have given gifts. Baptism Thank You Card wording is equally important.

As you're building his/her standing within your family community, your choice of the right Baptism - or Christening Thank You Card (as it's also known) is worth a longer look.

Once you've got your card, choosing the appropriate Baptism Thank You Card wording can often prove a challenge. This is especially so for first time parents keen to do things right'.

Religious etiquette suggests that baptism thank you cards should be sent no more than two weeks after the ceremony or service. As it's customary to give gifts on these important occasions you may have a number of thank you cards to write.

If you haven't already done so, it's a good idea to make a list of who has given you what. That way you can be specific and personal in thanking people for their kind thoughts and presents.

Mention the gift itself, how you and your baby are enjoying it and using it, or how they will use it in the future (if it is a gift for a later stage in life). You may mention how lovely it was to see them at the baptism itself if they were able to attend.

Those who haven't chosen personalized photo card often attach a photo to their card or letter.

If you have some idea how much you might write before hand then this could affect the size of card you choose. Your handwriting may be exuberant and large, requiring more space than someone who writes small. Thinking about this early on is always a good idea.

Finally, when you sign off, add all your names, you, your partner's and of course baby's. Everyone loves to see baby's name on the card, and as proud parents, it gives you another chance to write baby's name!

It's also wise to order your Baptism Thank You cards or Christening Thank you Cards along with the Birth Announcement and Baptism Cards to ensure a continuity of design style.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

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Baptism Gifts - How to Select One
By Joyce Kreger

There are many possibilities when it comes to choosing the perfect Baptism gift to celebrate this very special day.

Gifts of Faith
 
This would include any item that commemorates the religious significance of the baptism including: a personalized tile, a baptism bracelet with the baby's name, a custom keepsake box, a baby rosary, a blessing plaque to be placed on the baby's wall, a book of prayers, a personalized photo album or picture frame or any other item that serves as a reminder of this important day.
 
Gifts of the Heart and Hands
 
Anything handmade will be appreciated. Quilted or knitted baby blankets, scrapbook albums and gift baskets are always a welcomed gift.
 
Gifts of Time
 
This is the perfect gift for anyone on a budget. Parents, especially mothers, always appreciate a helping hand. This could mean offering anything from babysitting and laundry help, to shopping and preparing meals. Simply create a homemade coupon with the details of your gift and include it in a lovely card.
 
Gifts of the Future
 
A gift of a savings bond, check, or a contribution to the child's college fund is always appreciated. 
 
Gifts of Growth
 
A gift of a small tree or a beautiful perennial plant such as a rose bush is a unique and sentimental gift. And one that will be enjoyed season after season.
 
Gifts of the Soul
 
A thoughtful gift is a letter to the child and/or the parents stating what this day means to you in terms of your love and friendship for them and your hopes for their future. Your letter will be a meaningful keepsake from their special day.
 
Cool Party Favors - Copyright 2009

Joyce Kreger is a party planning consultant specializing in religious receptions and she recommends these Baptism Favors

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joyce_Kreger

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Irish Christening Gowns & the Irish Tradition

Aren't Irish christening gowns just beautiful, and what about the tradition that surrounds the Irish christening. 

Irish tradition, like any other, comes with its own variations. The good thing about tradition of any form, is that it can be adapted to suit your own needs. 

Irish symbols 

Symbolism on the christening gown is a personal choice. There are many Irish symbols that can be applied to a gown. From ancient Celtic spirals to the exquisite claddaugh. Research the symbols and you'll find that they have hidden depths and meanings, but for now, here's some basic Celtic symbol descriptions. 

Celtic Knots, believed to protect against evil. The more complex the knotting, the greater the protection. 

Celtic spirals, believed to be the balance between the inner and the outer consciousness. 

Celtic tree of life delivers wisdom, and is also believed to deliver messages from the gods. 

Celtic cross, believed to signify the four directions of the wind, and the four seasons. 

Shamrock, one of the favorite Irish symbols. The symbol of trinity. 

Claddaugh, the symbol of love and friendship. 

The tradition behind the Irish christening gown 

The Irish believe that for daughters, the christening gown should be one of the three white dresses that she will wear in her lifetime. Her christening/baptism gown, communion/confirmation gown, and of course her wedding gown. All should be white as this symbolizes, purity, joy and new life. 

An old Irish custom is to make the christening gown from the mother’s bridal gown. Using lace or fabric from the veil, or other parts of the wedding gown. This is normally made by the mother. 

A mother’s first-born child is said to wear part of the bridal gown for her christening, and then when the child marries, part of the christening gown will be re sewn back into the bridal gown! 

All of this represents the threads binding together the different generations. 

This tradition of course comes with its variations, one of which is that the mother makes her child's christening gown from her own bridal dress, and this then gets handed down through the generations as a family heirloom, rather than being recast into the wedding dress. 

Many Irish christening gowns are hand embroidered with symbols. They could have panels made from the old Cluney lace (lace that is so delicate and airy, it resembles crochet stitches) Or it could be made from fine Irish silk or old Irish linen. The beauty of the Irish gown is partly the tradition that lies behind it. 

What if you don't have your own gown to hand down through the generations? What if you don't fancy chopping up your wedding dress to make a christening gown! Don't worry, there are plenty of places out there that are perfecting the art of making Irish christening gowns, and then you could start handing that down through your own family, and make your own tradition. 

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/babies-articles/irish-christening-gowns-the-irish-tradition-371527.html

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Making Christening Gowns And Christening Suits A Family Heirloom

Christening gowns or Christening suits are possibly one of the most gorgeous baby items that you will buy for your baby. It is a very special purchase that will commemorate one of baby's most important days. A Christening is an incredibly special occasion to celebrate, what can be more important than presenting your baby to the Lord for his or her Christening?

This day will celebrate the gift that God has given to you in this new baby, and it is definitely a day to rejoice! When considering purchasing Christening gowns you will also need to consider if you want to make this article of baby clothing a family heirloom. If you plan on having more children, do you want a gown that is unisex or would you consider buying another Christening outfit if you have a baby of the opposite sex next time? And, is the style that you have chosen a classic style? Is it a "timeless" design that can easily be passed down to grandchildren and great-grandchildren?

If Christening gowns or suits are dry-cleaned and or preserved properly they can actually last for generations to enjoy! After all the excitement of Christening day is over it is important to consider the following when preserving your Christening outfit:

The vinyl bags that Christening gowns usually come in are not the best storage vessel for your heirloom gown. The chemicals in plastics leach into fabrics and can cause terrible damage over many years. Textiles need to breathe if you want them to last for many years and don't want them to fade or turn yellow. Tissue paper is not ideal unless you are absolutely positive that it is acid-free.

The best and safest way to store your Christening outfit is to store it in a 100% cotton storage bag; if you are too busy to shop for this specialty item then a cotton pillowcase slipped over the hanger will suffice for this purpose too! Make sure that the bag does not have metal snaps or zippers as they can possibly corrode, and why take a chance of having such stains appear on your precious piece? Remember to use a plastic or rubber coated hanger too, as metal hangers can also stain delicate fabric.

Make sure that Christening gowns are clean before you store them in your cotton storage bag. If they require hand washing do so with laundry soap such as Ivory snow, (do not use a detergent soap). Make sure you thoroughly rinse the gown and give it a final rinse with distilled water. Hang it to dry, press and place it in your cotton bag. Remember to store your Christening outfit in a cool, dry area. Never store it in an attic or a basement where a cool and damp atmosphere can encourage mould to grow.

If you take the time to include all of the above preparations in when storing Christening gowns you can be sure that many generations of your family will be able to enjoy it as an heirloom outfit!

About The Author:
Julia Mahler is a successful author and the talented publisher of many websites, a1-baby.com included! Providing a wonderfully researched resource for your babies needs including; baby products, strollers, baby bedding, safety, infant clothing and specialty baby items.

www.christeningessentials.com