Naming Days & Welcome Ceremonies​

Naming Days and Welcome Ceremonies celebrate the miracle of new life and the happiness of a growing family. Let’s celebrate the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your story. It’s a chance to include extended family and friends, and create wonderful memories for your child’s future.

A baby naming is the modern and meaningful alternative to a church christening. We welcome your child to the family, give their name and express your intentions for your family life. You might choose godparents or guideparents to support your child. 

The ceremony can be non-religious, or religious, as you wish. You can have the ceremony anywhere that’s special to you and at any time of day.

A Welcome Ceremony celebrates the arrival of new family members, including adopted children and step-children. As families change and grow, this ceremony blesses the new family unit, helping children feel special and valued.

There are no constraints to Naming and Welcome ceremonies. The theme, content and style are entirely your choice.  

I’ll create a happy, thoughtful, family-friendly ceremony, which feels right for you. 

Celebrating Kate and Andrew’s wedding (image by Snooks Photography), and a Naming Day for their beautiful daughter Mabel.

How I work with you to create a Naming Day or Welcome Ceremony

When we meet, we’ll talk through what being a parent means to you and your hopes for your family. I will write promises to express your thoughts, or you can write them in your own words. Similarly, I will write promises for godparents/guideparents – to express their commitment to your child during his/her journey through life.

We’ll discuss the readings and music you might like and any special rituals, such as the Unity Candle ceremony.

A Naming Day or Welcome Ceremony fee is £300 and includes:

  • A meeting with you for 1-2 hours
  • Bespoke service agreed with you, written by me
  • Regular contact up to the day
  • Leading the ceremony
  • Presentation certificate, copy of the ceremony and small gift
  • Travel within a 20 mile radius of DT6

How to book your naming day

If you have any questions, or would like to know more about Naming Days, or Welcome Ceremonies, please contact me, or visit my Facebook page for inspiration and ideas.