A baby baptism is a significant event in many families. To mark the occasion family members, church friends and guests typically attend the service and gather for a post service celebration. Even for a more casual gathering, with a sizable group, there’s a lot of work to be done to prepare for the reception. It is possible to be your own event planner and catering service! Pre-plan and enlist the help of a few close family members and friends to prove the old adage “many hands make light work”. You’ll find their help will add to the joy and ease of the day.
How do you want to mark the occasion? Decorations and yummy food will support the celebratory atmosphere. Once you have enlisted the help of your “crew” decide who will be responsible for the variety of jobs it takes to accomplish the party which typically will be held in the church fellowship hall. Discuss the division of labor before the event so there are no unpleasant surprises. Will the hall need to be cleaned before or after the celebration? If so, include that in your plan. Additional points to consider:
– Decide on a menu. Is this a meal or a more casual smorgasbord of appetizers and finger foods? Is this a potluck? Are there any special dietary needs to consider?
– Be clear about who will prepare which menu items.
– Will any of the menu items need to be kept hot/cold? Make provisions for those needs.
– Designate who will be responsible for any necessary refills during the party; don’t forget the beverage station.
– Who will set up the guest tables and chairs? Who will take care of them post party?
For a baptism celebration, typically the decorative focus is on the main food buffet. An artful arrangement with a variety of platters, platforms and pedestals will add to the visual appeal. Usually decorations are more classic and restrained; white partnered with pastels or a single accent color is a frequent choice. A centerpiece with flowers, fruit, candles and meaningful religious symbols can add to the beauty of the occasion. Everyone will enjoy pictures of the honoree. They can be part of the main buffet arrangement if space allows. Alternately a separate display can be set up or pictures can even be suspended over the buffet.
Everyone will appreciate a visual record of the day so a designated area with good lighting for photo ops is beneficial. Include a couple of stools or chairs so family members can gather for their pictures.
If a baptism service and celebration is in your future, pre-planning the event and arranging for friendly help will enable you to be a participant as well as a hostess. On this important occasion how wonderful to share the joy of the day with a whole group of supporters while you make memories together!
I know this is about a baptism, but my daughter’s first birthday is coming up in a month. I really like this list for the party because I’ve been stressed about it and not known exactly what I need to plan. I”ll definitely talk to my family about the food, and we might end up catering the cakes. Thanks for this great list!