One of the most common questions we hear from parents and first-time godparents is:
"Who is actually responsible for buying everything?"
Greek Orthodox christenings come with beautiful traditions, including certain responsibilities for both the parents and godparents.
Here's a simple breakdown of who traditionally organises what.
What Does the Godparent Pay For?
In Greek Orthodox tradition, the godparent (nounos or nouna) generally purchases the items required for the baptism ceremony.
These include:
Christening box & contents
The bath towel, hand towel, oil sheet, oil bonnet, soap, olive oil bottle, singlet and socks.
Christening candle
The lambatha, which symbolises the light of Christ.
Cross necklace
A meaningful gift representing the child's Christian faith.
Christening outfit
The baby's new baptismal clothing, traditionally white or ivory.
Shoes & accessories
Matching shoes, socks and any additional outfit accessories.
Many godparents choose to purchase these items together as a complete christening package, making the process easier.
What Do the Parents Pay For?
Parents are traditionally responsible for organising the ceremony and any celebrations afterwards.
This generally includes:
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Church booking and arrangements
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Christening reception and catering
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Invitations and decorations
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Bomboniere for guests
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Photography and videography
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A thank-you gift for the godparent (optional)
Church fees or donations vary between parishes and families, so it's best to confirm these arrangements beforehand.
Can Parents & Godparents Share the Costs?
Absolutely!
While these are common traditions, there are no strict rules about who must pay for every item.
Some parents prefer to choose and purchase the christening outfit themselves, while others share costs with the godparents.
Our advice? Have the conversation early.
Discussing expectations, budgets and preferences beforehand helps avoid confusion and makes the planning process much easier.
Need Help Organising Everything? 🤍
Whether you're a first-time godparent or a parent preparing for your little one's special day, we're here to make the process easier.
At Bambi & Bow, we can help you understand what you need, coordinate your selections and find options to suit your budget.
Explore our Orthodox christening collection or get in touch for personalised guidance.
Please note: These responsibilities reflect common Greek Orthodox traditions and may vary between families and churches.