Naming Ceremonies
A naming ceremony gives you the opportunity to celebrate and welcome your new addition to the family. This could be a newborn child, step-children, adopted child or someone embracing a new identity.
Whoever the naming ceremony is for, at its core the intention is to create a space where families and communities can come together to unite and bond, all in the name of this special person. It is a non-religious alternative to a formal Christening and is a way to officially be named in front of your loved ones.
As your Celebrant each ceremony is written entirely from scratch and will be tailored around you and your family. We can include readings, music and poems as well as symbolic acts that are important, including - Sand ceremonies, tree-planting or hand and foot printing.
A naming ceremony is a truly unique way to share your dreams and aspirations for the future.
"A name pronounced is the recognition of the individual to whom it belongs."
William James
Prices available on request
Frequently Asked Questions - Naming Ceremonies
What is a naming ceremony?
It’s a rite of passage. Typically, a naming ceremony is for infants. For us to officially welcome them in the world and to formally introduce them into the circle of family and friends. It is for those people who wish to mark the happy occasion and celebrate the child, but with in their own family and community, rather than that of the Church or under any religious or council control.
What happens at a naming ceremony?
As your celebrant we would sit down together and talk about what you want to form part of the naming ceremony. You can have anything you like, it tends to contain a bit of story telling about the named person, a reading or two that reflects the sentiment you want to share, and then something ceremonial – be that vows or pledges from guideparents, a tree planting or hand binding ceremony. Whatever your thoughts are we can create something very special for you.
What age should the child be?
Any age! For an infant naming, it can be as and when the family and baby are healthy and happy and able to gather together. It could be you want to wait until you feel you have got to know your baby a little, so perhaps from about 4 months. Others, love to combine a naming ceremony with their child’s first birthday.
If I am older - even an adult, can I have a naming ceremony?
Yes! A naming ceremony is there to celebrate the very essence of who you are and how you feel. It might be a gender reassignment, and you decide to mark the end of that successful transition with your new name! Perhaps you have got divorced and wish to shed your old name. I can help you celebrate in a way that means the most to you.
Where can I have a naming ceremony?
Anywhere as long as you have the owners permission! The back garden, a pub you have hired, a village hall, a swanky location…anywhere.