For those of you who have read my previous posts, you know that I got married 7 ½ years ago on beautiful Sanibel Island. Naturally, it’s a moment in time that my husband and I will cherish forever and always remember fondly. Every summer we return to the area to relive that special day we shared with our closest family and friends.
When our baby boy was born almost two years ago my husband and I knew that, when the time came, we’d be carting him off to Sanibel Island to dunk his beautiful head in the ocean along the same beach where we were married.
Luckily for my family, planning J’s baptism was much less stressful than planning my wedding. Since giving birth to a child, I’ve tried to adopt a much less uptight perspective on life. I’ve learned that it helps me have better relationships with those around me!
That being said, planning a baptism versus planning a wedding can, if you let it, be totally stress-free.
6 Tips for Planning a Baptism
Location
It doesn’t have to be a church! If there’s no one pushing you to have the ceremony in a church, use your imagination! You can have it at a park, the beach, or a family member’s house. Do what makes you and your family feel comfortable. Remember, it’s OK to think outside the box.
Guests
Deciding who to include in your special day can be tough. Most people want everyone and their mother to be involved and witness the blessed event. However, if you keep in mind that it’s OK if the baptism is a small, intimate ceremony then you will be much happier in the end.
Someone to Perform Baptism
Traditionally, church leaders perform baptisms, however, there are no rules in Scripture that specify the person who baptizes another must be that of a church leader. Although, they should be Christian. My husband’s Uncle, who is an Episcopalian priest, married us and baptized our son on Captiva Island.
Celebrate
Eat, drink, and be merry! The time to celebrate comes after the ceremony has taken place so plan something special and unique if possible. Brunch at your favorite restaurant, a backyard bar-b-que, or a home-cooked meal for dinner. Don’t forget the cake!
Pictures
A picture really is worth a thousand words! It’s true that you get busy wrapped up in the moment on any special occasion. So, dedicate the task of picture taking to someone you trust, someone who can see clearly, and who has a steady hand!
Give Thanks
It may seem corny this day and age, however, everyone likes a handwritten thank you letter. If you and your little one received baptismal gifts, it’s important to thank those who gave you gifts. A handwritten thank you card may seem a little outdated to some millennials, but it shows appreciation on a very personal level so take the time and make someone’s day!
Have fun when planning your baptism. Make it a special day that you won’t soon forget!
Where was your special day? In the comments below tell me some of your special baptism memories.
For more baby related posts- check out my Baby Boy Nursery Style- J’s Eclectic Nursery, Nursery Closet Organization, Nursery Dresser Organization, Diaper Changing Table Essentials, and Pumping Essentials, My Breastfeeding Journey, and Diaper Bag Essentials.
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Hi! I’m Meagan and I’m a 41 year old mom of a high energy almost 9 year old, happily navigating my way through the little boy years. I’ve been married for 14 years. I met my husband over 20 years ago in high school; we got married 10 years later after graduating from the University of South Florida. I currently help run a family business with my parents while blogging about my life and love of DIY projects!
When I’m not at a kids sports game, I enjoy spending time with my family on a beach anywhere. I also love decorating and organizing, fun DIY projects, bargain shopping, and eating out or in! I also love Barbecue anything and a good show or movie on Netflix.
Baptism is such a special time in life and should definitely be celebrated! These are great planning tips. 🙂
I had never thought to have a baptism outside the church, but you’re right, it could be anywhere you like
Gorgeous! What a lovely, special way to introduce a little one to the family of God. I wish I could have done something similar for my little girl!
Great list! I’ve already baptized my 3, but you did a good job putting a list together.
This is a great planning list you’ve put together!