Naming Ceremonies
A new child brings an incredible sense of love, joy, and excitement into family life – the beginning of a beautiful new chapter that deserves to be celebrated.
I create personalised Naming Ceremonies that celebrate and honour your child’s arrival. Whether you are welcoming a new baby, celebrating an adopted child, or embracing a blended family, a Naming Ceremony is a heartfelt way to mark the occasion.
For families who feel a traditional religious ceremony isn’t the right fit, a Naming Ceremony offers a warm and personal alternative, allowing you to celebrate your child in a way that reflects your family, values, and story.
What happens during a Naming Ceremony?
Every Naming Ceremony I create is completely personalised and designed around your family.
During the ceremony, parents can make promises and commitments to raise their child with love, guidance, and support. Grandparents, siblings, close friends, and Supporting Adults (sometimes known as Guideparents or Godparents) can also be included, giving them the opportunity to make promises and celebrate their special place in your child’s life.
Beautifully personalised touches
You can include elements such as: Meaningful music, Poems and readings, Family and friend participation, Supporting Adult promises, Tree or rose planting ceremonies, Unity candles, Memory or treasure boxes, Symbolic rituals and traditions, Personal touches unique to your family.
The Framework
Your Naming Ceremony can be tailored to reflect your family and may include: A warm welcome from your Celebrant, Readings chosen by parents or loved ones, The official naming of your child/children, Parent promises and commitments, Recognition of the role of grandparents (optional), Grandparent promises (optional), Family and friends’ promises (optional), A meaningful symbolic ritual or family tradition (optional), A closing reflection and celebration of your journey, Signing of a commemorative Naming Certificate, Final words from your Celebrant.
FAQs
What is a Naming Ceremony?
A Naming Ceremony is a personalised celebration welcoming a child into the family. It provides an opportunity to officially celebrate your child’s name, share your hopes for their future, and gather family and friends for this special milestone. It can also be a meaningful alternative to a traditional christening.
Where can we have our ceremony?
Anywhere you like. Naming Ceremonies can take place at home, in a garden, outdoors, at a venue, or somewhere meaningful to your family. The location doesn’t need to be licensed, giving you complete freedom to choose a place that feels right.
Will you help us plan the ceremony?
Yes. I work closely with you to create a ceremony that reflects your wishes, values, and ideas. Together we’ll choose the content, wording, and special touches that make it uniquely yours.
Can we involve family and friends?
Absolutely. Grandparents, siblings, Supporting Adults, and loved ones can all be involved through readings, promises, symbolic rituals, or other meaningful roles.
Do we have to write our own promises?
No. You are welcome to write your own promises, but I can also provide ideas and examples if you’d prefer guidance.
How long does a ceremony last?
Most Naming Ceremonies last between 20–45 minutes, depending on what you would like to include.
Is a Naming Ceremony legally binding?
No. A Naming Ceremony is a personal celebration with no legal status – it is a meaningful way to honour and welcome a child into your family.
Can religious elements be included?
Yes. Although many families choose a non-religious ceremony, I can include prayers, readings, hymns, or other meaningful elements if you wish.
