How to Plan a Christening Celebration: Theme & Colour Ideas for an Unforgettable Day

A new baby is a wonderful reason to bring friends and family together. For many parents, a christening is the perfect way to formally welcome their child into the world and their faith. It’s a joyful milestone—a day to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate new beginnings.

Christenings are often held in a church or place of worship and followed by a relaxed party or gathering. Whether you’re planning a formal celebration or something more low-key, every detail—from the venue to your christening invitations—adds a special touch to the day.

A theme brings your celebration together and makes it feel even more personal. Whether it’s playful, elegant, or sentimental, your christening theme can reflect your family’s personality and style.

Adorable and fun, animal themes are perfect for a baby’s christening. Choose classic favourites like teddy bears, bunnies, or jungle animals to inspire your invitations, tableware, and party décor. Add touches like paw-print bunting, animal-shaped cookies, and plush toys for your little one to enjoy later.

You could even coordinate baby gifts with the theme by including a suggestion on your invitations, such as books or soft toys featuring your chosen animals.

What better way to celebrate your baby's journey than by surrounding yourselves with photos from their first months? Schedule a professional photo session ahead of the christening to create beautiful images for your invites and decorations.

Dotty about Paper offers photo christening invitations that can be personalised with your favourite snapshot—an extra-special way to invite guests and give them a lasting keepsake. Use enlarged prints, photo bunting, or a memory board to decorate your venue and add a personal, heartfelt touch.

Some parents like to embrace gender-specific themes when planning their baby's christening.

For girls, think soft pinks, fairy tales, and delicate florals—fairies, ballerinas, butterflies, and cupcakes all work beautifully.

For boys, timeless motifs like trains, boats, or rockets can set a playful tone. Use illustrations on your invitations and bring the theme to life with matching table decorations or party favours.

Of course, many parents opt for more neutral ideas, especially if they prefer a modern or unisex approach. Don’t be afraid to break the mould and go with what feels right for your family.

If a detailed theme feels overwhelming, choosing a colour palette is a simpler and equally beautiful way to set the tone of your christening day.

• Soft Pink – Timeless and sweet, pink is a go-to for many parents. Mix various shades like blush, rose, and pastel to add depth and keep it elegant.

• Lavender or Purple – A great alternative to pink, purple tones feel gentle and feminine while standing out from the crowd. Lavender bunting, lilac balloons, and floral accents can create a calm and cosy feel.

• Peach or Coral – These warm tones work well for spring and summer christenings and add a fresh, modern feel.

• Baby Blue – A classic choice for boys that never goes out of style. You’ll find a wide variety of baby blue christening invitations and accessories to match.

• Navy and Gold – Sophisticated and unique, this combination creates a luxurious yet still baby-appropriate feel.

• Mint Green – Light and refreshing, mint green works beautifully on its own or paired with soft neutrals or greys.

Not every parent wants to lean into gender-specific colours. Gender-neutral christening themes are growing in popularity—and for good reason. They allow for creative freedom and timeless elegance.

Try these palettes:

• Grey and White – Minimalist, clean, and modern.

• Yellow and Green – Cheerful and great for spring or summer christenings.

• Earthy Neutrals – Beige, taupe, and soft greens or blues offer a warm and natural feel.

Beyond your theme, it’s the little details that make a big difference:

• Personalised Christening Invitations from Dotty about Paper set the tone from the start.

• Matching stationery, such as thank you cards and favour tags, keeps everything cohesive.

• Memory keepsakes like a guest book or fingerprint tree allow guests to leave heartfelt messages and well-wishes that your child can cherish in the future.

And don’t forget the cake! Whether it's a simple sponge or something more decorative, it’s often a highlight of the party and perfect for photo moments.

Your baby’s christening is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. While planning can feel overwhelming, focusing on what matters most—welcoming your child, being surrounded by loved ones, and celebrating this new chapter—will ensure the day is everything you hoped for and more.

At Dotty about Paper, we’re here to help you every step of the way, with beautiful, personal stationery to suit every theme, colour scheme, and vision. Shop our christening invitations and christening guest books.