Baby James’ Christening
The time is going by so fast and my Mum kept asking about The Christening. She wasn’t nagging but her generation presume you will be christening your baby. The church in Ireland has certainly done nothing for the cause but as a new mother I had to look deeper. I decided I wanted James christened, brought up with some guidance and faith. I do struggle with the idea of imposing a religion on my son though after attending a convent myself. However, I do feel that children need some faith as a moral compass for their upbringing. It does give them a sense of security and belonging to a community.
I know I’m not going to be a perfect parent, as no one is, but basic manners and respect seem to have fallen by the wayside. As a society we need to teach our children to be more caring and not just think about themselves.
I completely underestimated how special and emotional the day would be. James has taught me what’s really important in life. I never thought it was possible to love someone so much. I’m writing this on a flight from Venice where I have just spent 2 days on a job. It’s my 1st time leaving him and it was really hard. I’ve spent 17 yrs travelling the world but this time was different. I often wondered when I was pregnant about my life ending!! I thought I would be dying to get away for a break but it’s just not true. Having a baby is a huge adjustment and coming to terms and accepting that your old life is gone can be tough. I think we’re naturally afraid of change. It’s the fear of the unknown!!
I christened James in the side chapel in Clarendon Street. It’s so beautiful and was absolutely perfect. Father Paul Ward did the honours. He’s a priest that you can relate too which is important to me. I decided to have the celebration at home. Children get bored in a restaurant and we were blessed with a good day as I don’t know what I would have done with the kids otherwise. You would know it’s my 1st child as I had no plan B. They were on the bouncing castle all day and I also had face painting which they loved. Nancy Parnis from Face Painting Ireland was fantastic and she transformed the kids into Pirates and Princesses. My friend Andrea said her son Andy fell asleep on the floor beside his bed which was the sign of a good day.
I wanted to make the day fun for everyone and get all my friends together. Between work and kids it’s tough to find time these days. It was a lot of work but worth every minute. I juggled with the idea of caterers but decided to go for it. Louise Austen Hospitality made the day. Everyone raved about the food for days and they made my life so easy helping me at every turn. I got everyone little going home gifts from I DO 4 U.ie, they have really nice ideas for all occasions.
Baby in bed we had a good old sing song. We watched the video the next day and we all decided it would be best not to sing ever again!! So much fun and I slept like a baby. Roll on his communion (for religious reasons of course)!!
Food, friends & fun
After working with Gordon Berrie from Louise Austen I will be using them for all my events. Leona Rothwell from Hireall looked after cutlery, crockery etc. They work as a team which makes life easier. My talents don’t really lie in organising but Gordon took the worry and stress away. They also have little added extras to make the day that little bit more personal. Gordon had T-Shirts printed with James on them for the staff to wear which I loved.
We decided on a barbecue and the food was delicious. Chicken breasts marinated in lime and coriander, tiger prawns, burgers and my favourite, individual desserts like passion fruit mousse and baileys cheesecake. They kept the drink flowing and the food coming. Their focus as a company is on quality food and quality service. They have been in business for 25 years. As each event is different, they will help you organise and tailor all aspects of your function. Their menus are designed seasonally with inspiration drawn from the best cuisine from around the world and all their ingredients are all sourced fresh locally. Above all my house was left spick and span. The worst part of any party is the cleaning afterwards….
The bouncing castle was from Smyth’s toys, they have great deals at the moment. Face Painting was from face painting Ireland. It’s a great way to add colour and smiles to any occasion. You can choose from cute animals, superheroes or Princesses. Temporary tattoos for teens and adults and nail art for the girls! Nancy brought gifts for the children and sent me a collage of the day a week later.
From private parties, weddings to corporate events call (01) 4790580 or www.louiseausten.com
Mum’s Must Haves
These are ideal christening gifts from a godparent.
Guardian Angels Medallions, to protect baby while she sleeps. €19.90 from www.lovelycharms.net
These personalised photo frames will capture memories beautifully. Each is handmade and decorated with a pearl loveheart.
From €22 www.manterodesigns.com
For christening clothing that’s guaranteed Irish check out www.christeningelegance.ie With every design handcrafted in Ireland, it’s a gorgeous choice for gowns, cardigans, shawls and even stationery. This ‘Aoife’ christening gown comes in dupioni silk and is priced €130.
Impress your guests with christening party favours. This teddy bear candle holder is €3.10, from a wide selection of cute and affordable gifts at www.ido4u.ie
Face Painting Ireland
€130 for 1.5 hrs. includes 8 gifts and collage opposite (click image to see full size).
www.facepainting.ie