The birth of a child is the single proudest day of a young parents life. Just think about all of the time, effort, doctor visits and shopping that’s been done on the behalf of the newest member of the family, and not only by the new parents. Immediate family member and close friends of both the parents and grandparents have sent special, heartfelt wishes. All of these people have a personal interest in the little one. Including each of these special people in celebrations of love, life and faith is just one way of reminding them how important they are.

No matter which of the Christian faiths you call your own, the rite of Baptism is one of high symbolism, for this is the first time that the child will be introduced to the church. Depending on the Christian denomination, this sacred event might be held to cleanse away original sin, be a step towards life-long obedience, or a rite of washing with water as a sign of religious purification and consecration. At any rate, water (and sometimes oil) is poured over the head of the child and into a basin during a ceremony held at the front of the church.

In order to keep the newest church member on the right path of faith, the parents choose a man and woman to uphold the honor of Godparents. Although the pair need not be married to each other, they usually need to be members of the same religious denomination.

Traditional attire for the guest of honor is usually white- the color associated with “new and clean". Baby boys have been seen recently in a white vest, shirt, pant and tie, with or without a jacket, depending on the season. For girls, flowing frocks of white satin and lace, with or without a coordinating bonnet and blanket (again-depending on the weather) is a choice ensemble.

Custom printed invitations by a quality, professional company can make the occasion that much more special, as the remaining details of the event can be the primary focus of attention. The invitations should be sent out about a month before the event to give friends and family ample time to make any necessary arrangement, so they should be ordered about 6 weeks before so they may be addressed and mailed. As far as the guest list, traditional Baptisms typically limited to close family and friends, but can have as many attendees as the parents wish to have. If in doubt about inviting someone for one reason or another, invite them- place the decision to attend in their lap, it’s better to have someone unable to attend than to hurt someone’s feelings by not sending them an invitation.