Hands-down, money. Money in the form of cash, check, but most impressive is money in the form of a cd account or a savings bond for the child. Leave it to the immediate family to give the child the religious gifts, money is the only other useful and/or desirable gift for the recipient.
Since christening is a religious ceremony, some nice gift ideas are a rosary or a baby's first Bible. If you do not want to give a religious gift, a nice picture frame or linen pillow is a good choice.
Some good Christening gifts might include cross jewelry, or a carving of a religious icon, such as Jesus or Mary. You may also consider a prayer candle.
There are so many opinions out there on what the best christening gifts are. I prefer books or jewelry for my kids. However, clothing, education funds and other ideas could be acceptable too.
Usually a good gift is a savings bond. This is very thoughtful because when this small child gets older, they will have seen their bond grow along with them. It does not have to be a lot of money, but is still thoughtful.
In order to find the perfect christening gift, I would suggest visiting your local church, or others in order to get a better idea on gifts. After you get a few suggestions, you can visit some local specialty stores located near your area, or you can find them online.
Here are some good gifts for a baby's christening and here are two that are very different and unique: * 2 small silver boxes (lining inside) and one is for a piece of the baby's hair; the other one to keep baby's first tooth that has fallen out. * Most trophy shops will carry this .... it's a thin silver cylinder on delicate legs and inside is a blank certificate that the parents can fill out for births or christenings. * Silver brush and comb set. * Silver mug with the baby's name engraved on it. * Clothing is fine to give as a gift. * A nice Christening frame for the baby's picture.
Although you can find Christening suits, it's fine for a boy to wear a Christening gown, especially if it is (or is going to be) an heirloom. It's a good idea to have a change of clothing available, because Christening gowns are 1)always white and 2)often scratchy.
A good first communion gift would be in the context of idols or religious antiques such as a cross or an ornament.
One of the most well received Christening gifts I have ever given was a Mother/Daughter bracelet. I have also given engraved baby fames. Parent's can never have enough frames to showcase pictures of the new addition. The fact that it is engraved makes it an instant keepsake. One of the least inspiring gifts, but one that shows up at every single Christening, is the metal or porcelain cross with the figurine of a child kneeling with hands folded in prayer.
Amazon is a good resource for christening gifts. Bed Bath and Beyond was a surprising member of the list, and you will also be certain to find local options in your area.
Some common and popular christening favors are silver frames. Frames are good choices because they can be used to commemorate the occasion with a photo. But, Christian-themed candles, key chains, and bookmarks are also common and excellent choices for christening favors.
A good keepsake for a baby's Christening could be a fancy photo frame, engraved jewellery, a stuffed toy or a special rattle. You could buy the baby a special dinnerware set - like a Bunnykins set.