About Naming Ceremonies

The aim of a Naming Ceremony is to create something unique and special for you and your child or children that celebrates and welcomes them in a non-religious way. A Naming Ceremony doesn’t just have to be for a newborn baby – it can be lovely for older children to have one, it could be at the same time as a 1^st birthday, or to welcome adopted children into a new family. I will listen to you, ask questions, and respond to what you want, to create a unique ceremony tailored to your family.

Where?

The lovely thing about a Naming Ceremony is that you can hold it anywhere – in your garden, in a park, in a village hall …. You might choose somewhere because it is special to your family, or because it is in a good location or has great food – it is up to you. (If you choose somewhere outside it may be a good idea to have a Plan B!)

When?

Naming Ceremonies are usually held at the weekend but they can be held on other days if that suits you. Any time of the day is possible – you will have an idea of what is best for you and your child.

What?

The ceremony can cover a range of things – you can find an example structure here:  https://humanism.org.uk/ceremonies/humanist-namings/example.

I usually include something about what it means to be a parent and how you came to be parents. I will talk about what you hope and wish for your child, and also about other important people in the child’s life. You can appoint ‘guideparents’, who might make some promises to your child as part of the ceremony. The ceremony can include promises, readings, poems, music – you may already have some ideas. Don’t worry if you don’t know yet what you want – I can make some suggestions.

“A wonderfully well-organised script with lovely readings”

“On behalf of myself, X and X, I would like to thank you very much for holding the ceremony yesterday. We had lots of lovely feedback about the ceremony, and I think that our friends X and X may even be in touch regarding a ceremony for their baby X! My parents would also like to say a special ‘thank you'”.

The ceremony can be as formal or informal as you like. You can invite just a few guests or many. I will respond to what you want.

Of course, the best laid plans can go wrong – babies cry – or go to sleep – at crucial times! I try to be flexible during the ceremony and to make everyone feel comfortable – it really is a special and joyful day for you and your family.

“Jane was so calm and kind and made everything run smoothly”

“Thank you once again for yesterday we had lots of compliments regarding your service. We had a

truly fantastic day! “

What next?

If you think you might be interested in a Humanist Naming Ceremony, or if you would just like some more information, please get in touch. If you have some dates in mind I can let you know if I am free.

Once we have agreed a date I will meet up with you (this can be wherever you feel most comfortable) to chat and so I can get a more detailed idea of what you would like.

How much?

My fee for a naming is £300 – £350.

If you decide to go ahead, I ask for a deposit (£50) which secures the date you have chosen.