Naming Ceremonies
Joyful Naming Ceremonies in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Oxfordshire & Berkshire
Welcoming someone into your family - or celebrating a new chapter in their life - is a moment worth marking.
Naming ceremonies are the perfect way to do it!
Whether it’s a newborn baby, a step‑child, an adopted child, someone embracing a new identity, or someone changing their name to reflect who they truly are, a naming day is a joyful, inclusive way to say: “You belong here, and we love you.”
Unlike a traditional Christening, a naming ceremony is non‑religious, but it’s every bit as meaningful. It is about gathering your favourite people, sharing stories, and officially naming your special someone in front of family and friends.
As your celebrant, I will create a ceremony written entirely from scratch - no templates, just something that reflects your family’s personality, values, and dreams. We can include readings, poems, and music, or add symbolic touches like sand ceremonies, tree planting, or hand and foot printing.
Every naming ceremony is unique, and that is the magic. It is a chance to celebrate individuality, honour new beginnings, share your hopes for the future, and create memories that last a lifetime.
"A name pronounced is the recognition of the individual to whom it belongs."
William James
This video captures a beautiful, non‑religious naming ceremony for two little girls, surrounded by family and friends.
Prices available on request
Frequently Asked Questions - Naming Ceremonies
What is a naming ceremony?
It is a rite of passage - for us to officially welcome someone into 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 with their family and community. It is a non-religious ceremony.
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 a 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.