A naming ceremony is a beautiful way to celebrate your child and the people who'll help guide them through life. No religious requirement, no formula you have to follow—just a heartfelt gathering that reflects your family's values and introduces your child to their community.
And naming ceremonies aren't just for babies. Perhaps you've adopted an older child, or someone in your family is changing their name as part of their journey. Maybe you're reverting to your maiden name after a divorce and want to celebrate that new chapter. Every name has a story, and every story deserves recognition.
What's Included
Packages start from £350 and include:
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Getting to Know Your Family
We'll meet in person or have a video call to talk about your family, your child (or the person being named), and what you want the ceremony to feel like. I'll ask about meaningful traditions, the significance of the chosen name, who'll be involved, and what kind of atmosphere you're after.
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Your Bespoke Ceremony Script
I'll create a ceremony that feels completely personal to your family. This isn't generic—it's crafted around your child's personality (even if they're tiny), your hopes for them, and the values you want to celebrate.
For younger children, I love incorporating elements from children's literature. A.A. Milne's Winnie the Pooh stories are particular favorites of mine—full of wisdom and gentle humor. We can weave in readings, promises, or symbolic moments that reflect the magic of childhood.
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Symbolic Elements
Perhaps guideparents (instead of godparents) each gift your child something meaningful. Maybe we create a time capsule to open on their 18th birthday. Or a tree planting ceremony to grow alongside them. Stone ceremonies, blessing bowls, hand and footprint keepsakes—we'll choose something that resonates with you.
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Final Review
Before the ceremony, we'll meet or call to go through the script together. You can make any changes you'd like until it feels perfect.
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Conducting the Ceremony
On the day, I'll create a warm, inclusive atmosphere and guide everyone through the celebration. I'll make sure even the youngest guests (or the grumpiest relatives) feel engaged.
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Optional Extras
- Coaching for parents and guideparents through video calls
- In-person rehearsal if you'd like
- Provision of symbolic element materials
- Certificates and keepsakes
The Process
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1. Reach Out
Tell me a bit about your family and your child. When are you hoping to hold the ceremony? Where? How many guests?
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2. First Meeting
We'll chat about what a naming ceremony means to you. Who do you want as guideparents? What values are important to your family? Are there any traditions or elements you'd like to include? What's your child like (if they're old enough to have a personality yet)?
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3. I Create Your Ceremony
Using your stories and wishes, I'll write a ceremony that celebrates your child and your family beautifully. I'll include a personal poem if you'd like, readings that resonate with you, and symbolic moments that mean something real.
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4. Review Together
I'll share the script with you, and we'll refine it together until you're delighted with every element.
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5. Celebration Day
I'll arrive early to set up, welcome your guests, and ensure everyone knows what's happening. Then we'll celebrate your child in a way that feels exactly right for your family.
Why Choose Me for Your Naming Ceremony?
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I Understand Families
I'm a parent myself (three grown children, raised on my own). I know that families come in all shapes and configurations, and every family has its own dynamics. Blended families, same-sex parents, single parents, grandparents raising grandchildren, adoptive families—I welcome and celebrate all of you.
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I'm Great with Additional Needs
If your child or any family members have additional needs—autism, learning disabilities, sensory sensitivities, mobility challenges—I have 35 years of experience supporting people. I know how to create an inclusive, comfortable atmosphere where everyone feels valued.
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I Write Personal Poems
A bespoke poem about your child and their journey into your family makes the ceremony extra special. Funny, touching, entirely unique to them.
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I'm Flexible
Naming ceremonies can be held anywhere—your home, your garden, a village hall, a woodland, a riverside. They can be tiny gatherings or big celebrations. They can involve guideparents making promises, or everyone present making a collective commitment. Let's create what works for you.
Naming ceremony packages start from £350.
This includes everything outlined above. Optional extras like rehearsals, additional coaching, or provision of materials can be added to suit your needs.