Baby Naming Ceremonies
Welcoming a new baby or child into your family is something worth celebrating, and a naming ceremony is a lovely way to mark the occasion.
Unlike a christening, a naming ceremony doesn't have to follow any particular religious tradition. It's an opportunity to bring family and friends together, celebrate your little one and recognise the important people who'll be part of their life.
Every family is different, so there's no set format to follow. Whether you'd like something simple and relaxed at home, a gathering in your garden or a celebration at a venue, we'll create a ceremony that suits your family.
You might like to involve grandparents, siblings or chosen guideparents, include a favourite reading or add a symbolic element such as a unity candle or wishing stones.
I'll work with you to create a personal ceremony that welcomes your little one and includes the people who matter most to you.
Making the Ceremony Your Own
A baby naming ceremony can be as simple or as personal as you'd like. There's no set format, and we'll work together to decide what you'd like to include.
We might begin by welcoming everyone and sharing a few words about your little one and what this occasion means to your family.
Parents can make their own promises to their child, while grandparents, siblings or chosen guideparents can be included in the ceremony too.
You might also like to include a reading, a favourite piece of music or a symbolic ritual, such as wishing stones, a unity candle or a time capsule filled with little keepsakes and messages for your child to open when they're older.
And of course, we can include the actual naming of your child as a special part of the ceremony.
The important thing is that it feels comfortable, relaxed and right for your family.
What's Included
- An initial consultation to chat about your family and what you'd like for the ceremony.
- A personalised questionnaire to help me get to know your little one and your family.
- A naming ceremony script written especially for you.
- A ceremony draft for you to review, with up to two drafts included.
- Guidance on choosing readings, music and symbolic elements.
- Help incorporating parents, siblings, grandparents or chosen guideparents into the ceremony.
- Ongoing communication and support while we're planning.
- Conducting your naming ceremony at your chosen location.
A Few Things to Know
Where can we hold a naming ceremony?
Naming ceremonies can take place in your home, garden, a hotel or another location that's special to your family. We'll have a chat about what you're planning and find an arrangement that works for everyone.
How long does a naming ceremony last?
Most naming ceremonies last approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on what you'd like to include and how many family members are taking part.
Do we need to follow any religious traditions?
Not at all. A naming ceremony can be completely non-religious, or we can include personal or family traditions that are important to you. It's entirely your choice.
Is a naming ceremony legally recognised?
A naming ceremony is a symbolic celebration rather than a legal registration. It doesn't replace registering your child's birth.
Baby Naming Ceremonies - From €400
Every family and every celebration is different, so I'll be happy to put together a personalised quotation once we've had a chat about what you have in mind.