Godparent proposal ideas

Asking someone to be a godparent is a request, not a surprise party. Keep it warm, keep it personal, and make it easy for them to say no.

Below: ways to ask, wording you can copy, box ideas and the etiquette worth knowing first.

Ways to ask

• A card from the baby: 'Will you be my godparent?' Simple and still the most common.
• A small box: the card, a candle, a photo of the baby and a note explaining why you chose them.
• In person over dinner, with the card handed over at the end.
• A framed photo of them holding the baby, with the question written on the mount.
• A voice note or video call if they're abroad - do not let distance turn it into a text.

What to say

• "We'd love you to be part of his life in a formal way. Will you be his godparent?"
• "You're the person we'd want guiding her if we couldn't. Will you be her godmother?"
• "We want him to grow up knowing you. Will you be his godfather?"
• "No pressure at all, and no hard feelings if it's not for you - but we'd love it if you said yes."
• "The christening is on [date]. Have a think and let us know."

What to put in a godparent box

• The card, with the question written by hand.
• A candle for their home.
• A print or coaster with the baby's name and date.
• A photo of the baby, printed rather than sent.
• A short note on what you're actually asking of them.
• Skip the trinkets. One good keepsake beats five small ones.

Etiquette worth knowing

• Church of England christenings usually expect at least three godparents, traditionally two of the child's sex and one of the other.
• Catholic baptisms require at least one confirmed, practising Catholic godparent.
• Godparents are normally expected to be baptised - check with your vicar or priest before you ask.
• A godparent has no legal standing. If you want guardians, that's a will.
• You can also name a non-religious 'guide parent' at a naming ceremony instead.

If they say no

• Take it graciously and immediately. People decline for faith reasons, distance or nerves.
• Offer them a different role: a reading, a guide parent, or simply an honorary title.
• Don't ask a second person in front of the first.

Shop christening cards

How to write it so it lands

• Ask at least six weeks before the christening - churches often need names in advance.
• Handwrite the question. A printed one reads like an invitation, not a request.
• Explain what you actually expect of them. Most people say yes faster once they know.

Where to shop next

• What is a christening?
• Christening gift ideas
• Christening gift ideas for a godson
• Christening party ideas
• Christening cake ideas
• Godparent proposal ideas
• Godparent gift ideas
• Baptism card messages
• What to write in a communion card
• Communion gift ideas
• Confirmation card messages
• Bar mitzvah gift ideas
• Holy Communion explained
• Christening cards
• Christening gifts
• Godparent gifts
• First Holy Communion cards
• Confirmation cards
• Christening decorations
• Christening celebration ideas
• Planning the party? Birthday party ideas
• How to make a balloon arch
• Photo booth prop ideas

Frequently asked questions

How do you ask someone to be a godparent?

In person or by card, with the question written by hand and a sentence on why you chose them. A small box with a candle or keepsake is a nice touch, but the words matter more.

How many godparents should you have?

Church of England christenings traditionally have three; Catholic baptisms require at least one practising Catholic. Naming ceremonies have no limit.

Can a godparent say no?

Yes, and you should make that easy. Say there's no pressure when you ask, and offer another role if they decline.