As far as records began there has been a strong tradition of welcoming children into the family and naming them in accordance with local beliefs and cultures. Nowadays in addition to naming babies, we extend the tradition of unifying a family by name through adoption, fostering, bringing two families together through marriage and changing your given name by choice.
So what is a naming ceremony?
Nowadays a child naming ceremony does not have to follow one faith or belief system, it can be non-religious or multicultural – and fun!
Presenting a young life to the community by name, gives that person a unique identity which can be celebrated in many different ways.
So why not consider an alternative baptism, an alternative christening or an alternative to a communion and celebrate your special child in a way that is meaningful to YOU?!
Photo Gemma England
What’s the history behind naming children?
A last name or “family name” is often given in recognition of a child’s parentage, their first names are to identify that child within the family.
A naming ceremony’s purpose is to officially make a new member of the family’s name known within their close community and circle of friends.
Photo: Michal Carbol
In Roman times a baby was not considered to be a member of the community until the baby was named.
Ethnic and religious customs have often decreed how a parent should choose their baby’s name with nature, seasons, weather, location of birth or a parent’s trade often influencing what the child should be called.
Historically and in modern times, ceremonies have been created to recognise the symbolism and significance of welcoming a child into the family. And so it is today, whether it is to celebrate an adoption, join two families together through marriage, change a person’s given name, welcome a fostered child or celebrate the name of a new baby.
Photo Gemma England
What can you include in a child naming ceremony?
Your adoption or baby naming ceremony may include any statements, vows or promises you wish to make to your child and your hopes for their future.
Many parents often choose supporting adults or “guide parents” who will also say words of commitment and promise to be there for the child in whatever way they may need them.
“Our name distinguishes us from others and gives us a sense of belonging in our family and community. “
Or perhaps you would like to include all of your invited guests to support your child from helpless babyhood into independent adulthood by asking them to respond to some carefully chosen questions together.
Photo Gemma England
Personalising a child naming ceremony
As with any ceremony, the wording is so important. You may wish to include a favourite song, poem, story or reading that has significance to you.
Hands-on rituals such as mixing coloured sand, making a fingerprint tree or creating a time capsule are always popular with the younger guests and are lovely visual reminders and keepsakes of your special naming ceremony.
And if the child is older, actively including them in every aspect of the festivities as essentially it is their party!
One saying defines parenthood as: the longest days and the shortest years of your life.
Celebrate every moment!
Photo Toni Bonet
How much is a baby naming ceremony?
Child naming ceremony – crafted and officiated by award winning celebrant Debbie Skyrme €695:
€200 is the retainer fee for Debbie to save your date and craft a bespoke naming ceremony script.
€495 second payment to officiate your special naming ceremony in the venue of your choice.
Contact Debbie direct for more details
Photo Michal Carbol
Photography
(c) copyright Debbie Skyrme 2024 unauthorised reproduction of this text or photography is prohibited
