Planning a baptism: the complete checklist

Complete checklist for planning a baptism: from 6 months before to the big day. Practical tips, average budget, and mistakes to avoid.

Why a checklist is essential

Planning a baptism means coordinating many details: the place of worship, the reception, guests, decorations, outfits... Without a clear checklist, the risk of forgetting something important is high. That is exactly why BaptiDay guides you step by step, with automatic reminders and a personalised planning timeline.

6 months before

6 months before the baptism

Choose the baptism date in consultation with the godparents
Book the church or place of worship (schedule a meeting with the priest or officiant)
Choose the godfather and godmother and officially ask them
Set the overall budget (reception, catering, decoration, outfit, favours)
Start the guest list and gather contact details

3 months before

3 months before the baptism

Book the reception venue or restaurant
Choose the caterer and confirm the menu (account for dietary requirements)
Order baptism invitations and send them out promptly
Choose the baptism outfit for the child (white gown or ensemble)
Plan the decoration: theme, colours, centrepieces, balloons

1 month before

1 month before the baptism

Send invitations if not done yet and follow up on non-responses
Confirm every supplier (caterer, venue, florist, photographer)
Prepare favours or gifts for guests
Plan the day’s schedule hour by hour
Organise the godparent’s speech

1 week before

The week of the baptism

Confirm the final guest count with the caterer and venue
Pick up the baptism outfit and check it fits properly
Prepare the baptism bag: candle, white garment, family booklet
Brief the photographer on key moments to capture
Prepare decoration items and arrange transport

The big day

Arrive early at the church to make sure everything is in place
Check the reception venue decoration
Welcome guests with a clear schedule in mind
Enjoy every moment: this is a unique and precious day

Average baptism budget

The average baptism budget ranges from €1,500 to €3,000, depending on the number of guests, the reception venue, and the caterer. To help you manage every expense, check out our full guide.

See the baptism budget guide

Mistakes to avoid

Starting too late

Places of worship and reception venues are often booked months in advance, especially in spring and summer.

Ignoring the budget

Without a defined budget, costs can quickly spiral. Set an overall amount and allocate it by category.

Forgetting the favours

Baptism favours (such as sugared almonds) are a cherished tradition. Plan them early, especially if you personalise them.

Not delegating

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Assign tasks to the godparents or close family and friends.

Overlooking logistics

Parking, accessibility, seating plan, food allergies... These details make all the difference on the day.

Download the checklist in the app

BaptiDay guides you through every step of your baptism planning.

Download on theApp Store

Get it onGoogle Play

Frequently asked questions

Ideally, start planning 6 months in advance. BaptiDay guides you step by step with automatic reminders.

No, a civil baptism (or naming ceremony) is a secular alternative. It takes place at the town hall and holds symbolic rather than religious value.

Traditionally, you invite close family, close friends, and of course the godparents. The average number of guests is between 30 and 60.

Absolutely! An intimate baptism can cost less than €500. BaptiDay helps you optimise every spending category.