Namings

Becoming a parent – however that happens – brings a lot of new emotions. Gratitude for the people who helped you get here: your parents, family and friends. Anticipation to see who this new person will become. And perhaps a little nervousness: how can you possibly live up to the job of teaching someone how to be a good person?

“We’re not religious, but…”

If you’re religious, a Christening or similar ceremony is a useful point to focus all these feelings. But if you don’t feel at home in any faith tradition, or don’t believe in a higher power, you can still commit to being the best parent you can.

Naming ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular: to welcome new babies, celebrate the blending of two families, commemorate an adoption, or allow someone to introduce themselves with a new name or gender identity.

So what does it involve?

The short answer is: it’s up to you. Readings or poems, creating a book of wishes or collective artwork, or inviting everyone to join in song – the only limit is your imagination. And if that seems a little daunting, I’m more than happy to make suggestions.

Perhaps there are other people in your life who can teach your child things you can’t, or who have qualities you admire. This is your chance to butter them up by telling them what a great influence they are, and ask them to be godparents (or, if you prefer, guideparents, mentors or sparents – take your pick!).

Any excuse for a party

Life with a small child can feel a bit like a hamster wheel – just putting one foot in front of the other, getting to the end of the day and then doing it all again. But moments out of the ordinary are part of what makes us human: taking time to look around, take stock of how far we’ve come, and gather our thoughts and friends for the journey ahead.

Don’t take my word for it…

• “We’ve had a lot of feedback from people on how beautiful the ceremony was. It was exactly what we had hoped for.”
• “Thank you so so much for today! Everyone said how wonderful today, and you were. It was everything I wished for and more!”
• “The ceremony was even better than we could have imagined. We’ve had so many compliments, and a few people have said how they are considering hiring a celebrant for their next events! You were absolutely perfect.”
• “Helen was so lovely! Right from our initial meeting up to the day.”

Convinced or curious?

Drop me an email and let’s talk!