What's in a name?

Names are powerful. You can be in a crowded room but if someone says your name, what happens? You tune in immediately. Your name is used by the hundreds and thousands of people you meet throughout your life. Your name is a part of you, and intrinsic to who you are. It is your identity.

Parents often choose to hold a naming ceremony for their beautiful newborn baby, rather than a traditional Christening. Some parents choose to do both - whichever works for you is the perfect solution. It is a chance to bring together loved ones, family and friends who will be playing a role in your child's life and gives them the opportunity to celebrate the new life of your child . A naming ceremony is a chance for family and friends to bestow love and good wishes for your child in beautiful ceremony tailored to your needs. Namings can be enhanced by lovely rituals such as specially chosen music or readings, choosing the baby's life mentors, candle ceremonies, baby footprints and hand prints, sand ceremony or a rose petal ceremony - to name but a few possibilities. I

Naming ceremonies are also a wonderful way of welcoming adopted children into the family, or to celebrate the blending of two families. We all know how traumatic it can be for children when they are joining a 'new' family. A naming ceremony is a time to celebrate and to consolidate the welcome that is being offered to the children involved - perhaps the child will be given a new surname. The ceremony can be tailored to suit whatever you feel would be the most appropriate welcome for the children.

Most people take their name with them like a passport into the World, however we have to be aware, that many people will make changes to their name if it doesn't sit right with them. I was Christened as a Jennifer, but I chose to be called Jenny, I have a friend called Ian, who at age 20 changed his name to Chris - and you know what? It really suited him and now when I think of him being called Ian, it seems odd. A naming ceremony for a transgender person is also very important and can be a powerful and life changing moment as they step forward into their new life with the name and identity that feels right for the first time.

I love love love these ceremonies and the joy that they bring - I would love to explore ideas with you - your ceremony can be as traditional or as quirky as you want it to be - I will even dress up as your child's favourite character if that is what is wanted! Contact me to discuss possibilities - we are only limited by our imaginations!