Godparent Gifts: For Godparents And From Them

September 9, 2026

Finding the perfect godparent gifts is all about celebrating a lifelong bond, whether you are thanking someone for stepping up or choosing a keepsake for your new godchild. This guide brings together thoughtful ideas for both sides of this special relationship. Discover how to choose meaningful presents, ask someone to take on the role, and write a card they will cherish for years to come.

'Godparent gifts' covers two different jobs. Parents want to thank the people who've agreed to it. Godparents want something for the godchild that will outlast every other gift on the table.

Both are below, along with how to ask someone to be a godparent - which is really a card, not a gift.

The through line: whatever you give, put your name and the date on it. In fifteen years that's the only reason anyone will know who it came from.

Thank you gifts for godparents

Choosing the right godparent gifts to say thank you is a wonderful way to show your appreciation for their commitment. You want to offer something personal and lasting that marks the special day they officially joined your child's life. These simple, heartfelt gestures will serve as a beautiful daily reminder of the promises made at the font and the support they have pledged to offer.

A candle - the most reliably used thank you gift there is.
A framed print with the godchild's name, the date and 'godmother' or 'godfather' on it.
A coaster or keepsake with the christening date.
A photo of them holding the baby at the font, framed, sent a fortnight later.
A card written by the parents in the child's voice. Costs nothing, gets kept forever.
A bottle of something good and a hand-written note.
A keyring or small engraved piece they'll carry rather than display.

Gifts from a godparent to a godchild

As a godparent, your present should stand the test of time, outlasting the plastic toys and baby clothes they will quickly grow out of. The best godparent gifts from you to your godchild are those that build a connection as the years pass. These thoughtful ideas focus on longevity, creating a lasting legacy that the child will truly appreciate as they grow into adulthood.

A sealed letter to be opened on their eighteenth birthday, written on the christening day.
A savings account or Premium Bonds you top up every birthday.
A book you loved as a child, inscribed with why.
A keepsake box you add something to every year.
A framed print with their name and christening date.
A silver piece from a jeweller, engraved with both your names.
A tradition rather than a thing: the same day out, every year, just the two of you.

How to ask someone to be a godparent

Inviting someone to take on this lifelong role is a significant moment for any parent. Before you start looking at godparent gifts, you need to extend the invitation in a way that feels personal, respectful and sincere. It is a big commitment to ask of a friend or family member, so your approach should reflect the warmth and importance of the request itself.

Ask in person, then follow it up with a card so they've got it in writing.
'Will you be [name]'s godmother?' written inside a blank card is all it needs.
Say why you're asking them specifically. That's the part they'll remember.
Give them time to say no - it's a genuine commitment, especially in a church context.
Some churches require godparents to be baptised themselves; check before you ask.
A small gift with the card is a nice touch but nowhere near as important as the words.

What a godparent actually does

Before choosing your godparent gifts, it helps to understand the real-world responsibilities that come with this special title. While the traditional church ceremony has its own formal requirements, the modern role is much more about building a lasting personal relationship. Understanding these expectations ensures you select the right person for the journey ahead and helps them prepare for their new duties.

Stands with the parents at the font and makes promises on the child's behalf.
In the Church of England, supports the child's Christian upbringing and prayer life.
In practice: remembers birthdays, turns up, and is the adult they can talk to who isn't a parent.
Usually three godparents traditionally - two of the same sex as the child, one of the other.
A non-religious equivalent at a naming ceremony is often called a guide parent, mentor or supporting adult.

What to write in a godparent card

A meaningful message elevates any of the godparent gifts you choose to give. Whether you are writing a thank you card as a parent or sending a message of love to your new godchild, finding the right words can be challenging. A great card should capture the warmth of the occasion, offering a mix of gratitude, humour and sincere promises for the future.

'Thank you for saying yes. It meant more than we let on.'
'You were the only person we asked. That should tell you everything.'
'Thank you for standing up for her today, and for the next forty years.'
'Officially her godfather. Unofficially, the one who'll teach her to swear.'
'We couldn't have chosen anyone better. Thank you.'

Key things to remember

Write the date on every gift. It's what turns an object into a keepsake.
The eighteenth-birthday letter is the best godparent gift there is, and it's free.
Ask in person first. A card alone can feel like being volunteered.

Frequently asked questions

What do you give a godparent as a thank you?

A candle, a framed print with the godchild's name and date, or a photo of them at the font. The card matters as much as the gift - write it in the child's voice.

What should a godparent give a godchild?

Something lasting: a sealed letter to be opened at eighteen, savings you keep adding to, an inscribed book, or a keepsake box you fill over the years.

How do you ask someone to be a godparent?

Ask in person and give them a card with the question written inside, saying why you chose them. Give them room to decline - it's a real commitment.

How many godparents should a child have?

Traditionally three in the Church of England - two of the same sex as the child and one of the opposite. In practice families choose whatever number suits them.

More ideas you might like

Silver Plated Little and Loved Keepsake Boxes with Beautiful Gift Box and Pouch - Perfect for Christening or New Parents Gift and Presents

These silver-plated Little and Loved keepsake boxes come beautifully presented with a matching gift box and pouch to protect your most treasured mementos. Elegant and timeless, they make the perfect gift for new parents celebrating a birth or marking a special christening day.

Pokémon Deluxe Character Guide: The 100% Official ultimate character guide to every Pokémon ever discovered. For Pokémon fans of all ages.

This official deluxe character guide is the ultimate comprehensive companion containing details on every single Pokémon ever discovered. It makes a truly wonderful gift for Pokémon fans of all ages, perfect for dipping into or reading cover to cover.