Known as “the big day for little people”, a christening is a wonderful time for all the family and friends to gather around and celebrate the birth of a new baby, but it can also be a time of stress. Personal Presents, the nation’s favourite online personalised gifts supplier, offer their advice on planning and perfecting this precious day.

When the service is booked, it’s important to make sure that all in attendance are seated before the ceremony starts. As some churches offer christening services as part of the Sunday service, it is only courteous to make sure the service runs as smoothly as possible, without the added disturbances caused by latecomers. Invite the guests to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the ceremony.

The child’s outfit is a key component of the ritual, and will normally be a long white or cream gown. Some families choose to keep their gowns as family heirlooms, so buying a new gown may not be necessary. Christening gifts and accessories will definitely be an area to pay attention to, as these will be gifts that the child will cherish throughout their lives.

Phil Hertel, from the firm who also offer personalised anniversary gifts said, “This is a monumental day in one’s childhood and Personal Presents realise the importance and sentiment it, which is why we provide a range of gifts that can be given with care and love.”

Available in a variety of styles, the firm’s range of christening bootees and bibs are suitable for both boys and girls and will complement any christening gown. For those who wish to impart faith to the young, a prayers and Bible set, perfect for young children as they grow and learn, is also available at Personal Presents.

 Another point to keep in mind is that churches may be cold, even in the summer. Make sure the baby is wrapped up well in order to avoid tears at the font with a special christening shawl from Personal Presents.

Mr Hertel added, “Our Ivory Silk Shawl is the ultimate christening present. Soft and luxurious, it will be sure to be part of a child’s early memories. Embroidered with the child’s name in one corner, and date of christening in another corner, the shawl can complete the christening ensemble, and will be cherished.”

If you have chosen godparents for the child, you can show your appreciation with the firm’s range of gifts for godparents. A stunning china cup, which can be personalised with the name of the recipient and your message of thanks, is available and will be deeply treasured and serve as a tasteful reminder of the special day.

Mr Hertel added, “The presents that we supply are all chosen and produced with great care. While some may take some time to be produced, they are most certainly worth the wait, and we’re sure that the little one at the centre of the big day will appreciate the effort in years to come.”