Kate Middleton's mum Carole shares her suggestions for how to have the perfect christening

Kate Middleton’s mum Carole has shared her top tips for the perfect christening – but it doesn’t come cheap.

Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, is expected to attend a christening for the royal family's new arrival baby Louis over the summer, and now her mum Carole has shared her top tips for how to throw the perfect christening – but it doesn’t come cheap.

Professional party planner Carole appears to spare no expense when it comes to throwing an unforgettable celebration, suggesting a budget of a cool £2,000 for what she refers to as a ‘naming day celebration’.

In her column for Baby London magazine, Prince William’s mother-in-law suggests parents set up a ‘time capsule box’ so that guests can place ‘handwritten notes, photographs or trinkets’ inside for the baby to receive on his or her 18th birthday.

No expense should be spared on the little one’s outfit for the day either, with Carole recommending a £125 silk gown from Monsoon, a pair of £49 leather shoes and a £45 silk romper for the special day.

Carole Middleton's youngest grandchild, Prince Louis, who was born on April 23rd, is expected to following in his sibling's Prince George and Princess Charlotte's footsteps for his christening when it comes to his attire.

Princess Charlotte's christening

copyright Mario Testino /Art Partner

The royal family and the Middletons gather for a family photograph at Princess Charlotte's christening

The fifth-in-line to the throne will likely be dressed in the same Honiton lace and white satin gown as worn by his brother and sister, as is tradition in the royal family.

Moving on from attire, when it comes to entertainment for the day of the christening, Kate Middleton's mum recommends a harpist or a singer to set the tone - which could set you back an additional £300.

Carole advises that gifts for the baby should be thoughtful, with the 63-year-old suggesting that a decent amount of money should be splashed out on the child. Her suggestions include ‘a £49.95 English Trousseau piggy bank from Harrods, a £265 Philippa Herbert plaster cast of the baby’s feet, a £125 Meminio leather ‘memory case’ or a '£30 Steiff teddy’.

To reward guests for their efforts, the former air stewardess tells the magazine’s 200,000 readers that the guests too should receive gifts, including ‘votive candles, pretty chocolates and silver charms’ to take home.

Prince Louis at hospital April 2018

Carole’s suggestions give a glimpse into what we might be able to expect from Prince Louis’ christening this summer, and although the date has yet to be revealed, we doubt it will be a low-key affair if his granny has her way!

Freelance Writer

A Freelance Writer and Content Editor, Jenni has been working on the women's lifestyle team at TI-Media on and off for over three years. She writes about your favourite celebrities and TV shows so you never miss an update. Jenni also writes beauty news and features - so for all of your skincare and make-up needs, drop her a line.