Naming Ceremonies
A naming ceremony is a beautiful, personal way to honour a new chapter in someone’s life. This could be welcoming a child, celebrating a gender-affirming name change, or marking a fresh start after divorce.It’s a chance to gather with the people who matter, choose supporting adults or companions if you wish, and share in the joy of a name that truly reflects identity, growth, and hope. Whether you’re looking for an alternative to a traditional christening or simply want to celebrate this moment in your own way, I’ll help you create something heartfelt, inclusive, and memorable.
Who Are Naming Ceremonies For?
Naming ceremonies aren't just for newborns (though they're lovely for babies). They're also perfect for:
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Adopted children
being welcomed into your family.
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Older children
you didn't get to celebrate when they were born.
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Adults
marking a name change. This could be after transitioning, when reverting to a maiden name post-divorce, or simply choosing a name that feels more authentically you.
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Blended families
celebrating new family bonds.
Essentially, if someone's name or identity feels important to honour, a naming ceremony is a beautiful way to do it.
What Is a Naming Ceremony For a Child
A naming ceremony celebrates the arrival of a child and welcomes them into their family and wider community in a meaningful way. It may mark a birth, an adoption, or the blending of a family. It is about honouring love, belonging, and new beginnings.
Unlike a christening, a naming ceremony is not religious, though spiritual elements can be included if you wish. It is completely flexible and shaped around your family’s story.
Most naming ceremonies include:
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An introduction and welcome
Setting the scene for a celebration of love, identity, belonging, and the beginning (or continuation) of a shared family journey.
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Your story
The journey behind your child’s name and what it represents, why it was chosen, and what this moment means to your family.
This may include the story of their arrival, the path to adoption, or the joy of becoming a blended family.
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Readings, poems, or music
Carefully chosen words or music that reflect your values, hopes, and love for your child.
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Supporting adults or companions
People chosen to play a special role in your child’s life. They can be trusted friends or family who will offer love, guidance, and support as your child grows.
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Symbolic rituals
These help mark the moment in a tangible and memorable way.
Popular choices include:
- Candle lighting or a unity flame
- Planting a tree or flower to symbolise growth and connection
- A time capsule
- A blessing or affirmation ritual
- A ribbon or cord ceremony to represent family bonds
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Promises and commitments
Words spoken by parents, carers, or supporting adults. They may be expressing love, hopes, or intentions for the child’s future.
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Signing a commemorative certificate
A keepsake marking the moment your child’s name was celebrated and witnessed by those who love them.
A Naming Ceremony for New Beginnings
A naming ceremony can be a beautiful, affirming way to honour a new chapter in someone’s life. It may be to celebrate choosing a name that aligns with one’s gender identity or embracing a fresh start after divorce. It’s a moment to gather with loved ones, to witness change, to celebrate authenticity, and to acknowledge the courage it takes to step into who you truly are.
Unlike a traditional religious ceremony, this is entirely personal and shaped around your story. However, if spiritual elements resonate with you, they can be woven in with warmth and intention. Every part of the ceremony is flexible and designed to reflect the journey that brought you here.
Most naming ceremonies include:
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An introduction and welcome
Setting the scene for a celebration of identity, courage, transformation, and new beginnings.
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Your story
The journey behind your name. What it represents, why it was chosen, and why this moment matters to you.
This may include a gender transition, a chapter of empowerment after divorce, or the natural evolution of self.
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Readings, poems, or music
Words or music that reflect your experience, values, and hopes for the future.
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Supporting adults or companions
Trusted friends or family chosen to stand alongside you, offering encouragement, affirmation, and presence as you move forward.
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Symbolic rituals
Rituals help mark the transition in a tangible way.
Popular choices include:
- Candle lighting or a unity flame
- Planting a tree or flower to symbolise growth
- Creating a time capsule
- Blessings or affirmation rituals
- Ribbon or cord ceremonies to honour release and renewal
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Promises and commitments
Words spoken by you (and, if you wish, your supporters) about the future, including intentions, affirmations, and hopes.
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Signing a commemorative certificate
A keepsake moment marking the honouring and witnessing of your chosen name and this important point in your journey.
What's Included in Your Naming Ceremony
When you book a naming ceremony with me, here's what you can expect:
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Initial consultation
to discuss your vision and get to know your family.
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Questionnaires
to help me understand your story.
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Access to readings and poems
for inspiration
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Suggestions for symbolic rituals
that might feel right for you.
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Liaison with any other suppliers
involved in the celebration
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Me officiating your ceremony
with warmth and joy.
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A presentation certificate
for you to keep.
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Travel
within 30 miles of Farnham included (additional miles at 45p per mile).
Types of Naming Ceremonies
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Intimate Family Gatherings
Sometimes the perfect celebration is small and simple. Just your close family, maybe in your living room or garden, with heartfelt words and a few meaningful rituals.
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Outdoor Celebrations
If you love the outdoors, why not hold your naming ceremony in a beautiful natural setting? A woodland, park, or your own garden can provide a gorgeous backdrop for welcoming your little one.
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Celebrations with Symbolic Rituals
Many families love including a symbolic element in their naming ceremony:
- Planting a tree that will grow alongside your child
- Creating a time capsule to open on their 18th birthday
- A water ceremony where supporting adults each pour water into a bowl as a blessing
- A wishing stones ritual where guests write their hopes for the child
We can incorporate any ritual that feels meaningful to you.
Supporting Adults (Godparents)
One of the most important parts of many naming ceremonies is appointing supporting adults—sometimes called guide parents, guardians, or mentors.
These are the people you're asking to be part of your child's life: to offer guidance, support, and an extra dose of love as they grow up. During the ceremony, they'll make promises to your child, and you'll formally welcome them into this special role.
It's incredibly moving and a moment many families treasure.
Investment & Booking
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Naming ceremonies:
From £250.
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To secure your date:
50% booking fee required.
Remaining balance due 12 weeks before your ceremony.
Props (like commemorative certificates or materials for symbolic rituals) are available at cost.
Let’s celebrate your new life
I'd love to help you create a naming ceremony that's filled with love, laughter, and meaning. Let's have a chat about your family and what you're dreaming of.