Namings

The giving of a name is a life-defining moment.  Someone’s name may invoke their past, reflect the present and shape their future.  The giving of a name is a celebration of new life or new identity.  As such, it deserves to be marked in a unique way.

Many religions and cultures have ceremonies to name new arrivals. You may wish to draw on these for your own naming ceremony.  But, when creating your own naming, there are no boundaries to what you can do and no limits to your creativity.  You can hold your naming ceremony in a place that is meaningful to you, include all kinds of people who are special to you, and incorporate interactive elements such as a ribbon ceremony, a sing-along or a tree planting.  It truly is your day, your way.

I create bespoke naming ceremonies for each family.  These may take place outdoors or indoors, may be any length from 20 minutes upwards, and may draw on existing traditions or create entirely new ones.

Whichever way you would like to celebrate new life, we can make it happen.

Baby girl dressed for a ceremony

A naming ceremony can include:

  • Telling the family’s story
  • Explaining the meaning of the name and why it was given
  • Readings and poems
  • Music and song
  • Prayer and liturgy if appropriate
  • Making promises to the baby
  • Appointing special people, sometimes known as guide parents
  • Presenting a naming certificate
  • Unique creative elements

Remember, naming ceremonies are not just for babies. They can be for adopted children of any age, or to celebrate a blended family coming together.  Adults may choose a naming ceremony to mark a gender transition, or to reclaim a maiden name following divorce.  The important thing is to bring people together to mark this key moment as a time of significance and celebration.

If there is someone in your life preparing to receive a name, I’d love to talk with you about celebrating the event.  Let’s design a ceremony that reflects your unique family story and shares the joy of a new name with those who matter most.