Godparents

• Prior to setting a date for the baptism, select a godmother and godfather and collectively decide what is the best day to have the ceremony. Godparents occupy a sacrosanct position as, in many cases, it is assumed that the godparents will assume guardianship should anything happen to the parents. At the after-party, godparents give gifts to their godchild. Typical gifts are porringers, (small soup bowls with handles), silver cups and silver spoons with the baby’s name or initials engraved on them, according to the Bartleby website.
  
  

Colors

• As in other religions, colors have symbolic meaning in Catholicism. These colors should be taken into consideration when decorating for a baptism party. White is the color of innocence and a pure soul, two characteristics of a newborn baby. Yellow is the color of revival, goodness and hope and green denotes fertility and generosity. Blue, a color associated with the Virgin Mary, also represents hope and a wish for a healthy future. When decorating a house for a party, use these colors to help you choose flowers, balloons, streamers, tablecloths and plastic plates and cups.
  
  

Food

• 101 Baby Shower Ideas reminds baptism planners that there is a sweetness in being inaugurated into the Catholic church. That sweetness can be reflected in the food that is served. One idea is iced cookies with the child’s name and date of birth on them. A white cake or white cupcakes also fit the theme of purity and innocence.
  
  

Symbolism

• Catholic symbolism can play a part in the decorations. Water is significant since it represents cleansing and new life. Candles represent the light that the Lord bestows on people. Combine both by setting out bowls of water with floating candles. Other symbolic touches are to hang dove ornaments and crosses. Party stores also have cross confetti that can be scattered across the table.