Use this hour-by-hour baptism day checklist to stay calm, prepared, and fully present from the first wake-up call to the last thank-you.

Checklist for Baptism Day: Don’t Forget Anything

When baptism day finally arrives, you want to be present—not searching for the white garment or double-checking the cake. This hour-by-hour checklist keeps every detail under control so you can relax, enjoy the sacrament, and host with confidence.

The Night Before

• Steam or iron outfits, then hang them together with accessories and shoes.
• Pre-pack the baby bag, ceremony kit, and reception bin so you simply grab and go.
• Charge phones, cameras, tablets, and portable speakers.
• Confirm final headcount with your venue or host, and share any overnight changes inside BaptiDay.
• Set multiple alarms and designate an early riser to handle breakfast or coffee.

Morning Routine (T–4 hours)

• Eat a balanced breakfast and hydrate—adults function better with real fuel.
• Dress the baby in comfortable clothes for travel; change into the baptism outfit later to avoid spills.
• Snap a quick family photo at home before the day becomes busy.
• Review the timeline and reassign tasks if someone is running late.
• Check the weather and add umbrellas, sunscreen, or blankets to the car if needed.

Packing List

• Ceremony documents, parish donation, identification
• Baby essentials: diapers, wipes, pacifiers, bottles, bibs, spare outfits
• Parent essentials: makeup touch-up kit, tissues, water, healthy snacks
• Symbolic items: candle, shell/towel, white garment, cross or medal
• Tech: chargers, batteries, power banks, printed timeline, vendor contacts

Arrival at Church (T–60 minutes)

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before start time to settle nerves and greet the officiant.
• Reserve seats for grandparents, godparents, and siblings.
• Brief readers on microphone use and the order of service.
• Hand symbolic items to the sacristan or place them at the altar.
• Share any photography guidelines with your photographer or designated friend.

During the Ceremony

• Keep water, tissues, and small toys within reach for the child.
• Have a godparent ready to capture key notes or prayer intentions for the keepsake album.
• Take short, slow breaths—your calm energy sets the tone for guests.
• Encourage loved ones to add photos and reactions to the BaptiDay live gallery.

Transition to Reception (Immediately After)

• Allow 20 minutes for family and godparent portraits while excitement is still high.
• Assign one person to guide guests to the reception venue or follow the transportation plan.
• Confirm with the setup team that food, drinks, and music are on schedule for your arrival.
• Place gifts and cards in a secured box; log names in BaptiDay while they’re fresh.

Reception Flow

• Welcome guests with a short greeting or toast to set the mood.
• Rotate through tables to connect with relatives and friends; ask a helper to manage kid activities so you can mingle freely.
• Run your planned “moments” (video montage, blessing circle, cake cutting) on schedule.
• Monitor the music volume and room temperature—small tweaks keep guests comfortable.
• Ensure someone captures candids and details that complement professional shots.

Wind-Down and Cleanup

• Pack leftover food in labeled containers and distribute to helpers.
• Collect décor pieces you want to keep before the venue begins breakdown.
• Confirm gratuities for staff, musicians, or volunteers.
• Do a final sweep for phones, jackets, diaper bags, and strollers.

After the Celebration

• Upload your favorite photos and notes to the BaptiDay scrapbook.
• Update the gift log with thanks-to-send reminders.
• Toast with your partner or support crew—you orchestrated a beautiful day!

With a clear timeline and shared responsibilities, your baptism day flows smoothly, and you get to savor the sacred moments that matter most.