DRESS. The mother wears an elaborate reception gown to the church, with white gloves and a light hat or bonnet.
If the ceremony is at the house, she can wear an elaborate tea-gown.
The guests wear afternoon or evening dress, according whether the ceremony comes before or after 6 P.M.
FLOWERS. A christening ceremony offers a good opportunity for the guests who desire to present flowers to the mother. This is not obligatory, however, and must remain a matter of personal taste.
GIFTS. A christening ceremony offers a good opportunity for the invited guests, if they desire, to send a present to the baby.
These should be sent a day or two before the ceremony, and if of silver should be marked with the child's name, initials, or monogram.
GUESTS. The invitations should be promptly answered.
At a church ceremony the guests, as they are few in number, assemble in the front pews.
At a large house christening the affair is conducted somewhat like an afternoon reception. Wine is drunk to the child's health, and the guests take leave of the hostess.
INVITATIONS are issued by the wife only to intimate friends, and should be promptly answered.