Naming & Welcoming
Congratulations on the safe arrival of your precious 'little one' into your family...
This is a time of great celebration and joy which you undoubtedly will want to share with your family and friends!
A baby naming or welcoming ceremony offers a beautiful alternative to the traditional church christening or other religious ceremony. It allows you to welcome your child into your circle of family and friends; marking this rite of passage. Affirming your love and commitment to them, whilst still giving them the freedom to choose their own beliefs when they grow up.
"A wish was made
and you came true"
Unknown
As a member of The Fellowship of Professional Celebrants I promise to create a unique ceremony just for you. Together we will work to collect and collate all your thoughts and ideas for this very special occasion, so that your aspirations for the day are realised and achieved.
You are free to choose any music, readings or poems and include any vows or promises you would like to make to your child – there is no set pattern or script for the day – it’s about you planning the perfect ceremony for YOU!
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A baby naming ceremony can take place on any day of the week although most are held at the weekend, at a time which is best for you, your baby and the rest of the family. Â
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Your choice of venue is very personal and largely dependent on your budget and number of invited guests. Some people choose their own home or garden, some hire a hall or hotel and others a more unusual location.
If you are to hold your celebration in a public place such as a park or the beach, make sure you have sought permission (if necessary). If in doubt, check with your local authority.
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*Although this is a formal baby naming ceremony, it holds no legal status and your baby’s birth must still be registered at a local register office within the legal time span.
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You may like to involve older siblings on the day by having them read a poem or sing a song, but if they’re too young to participate, you could perhaps include some words on their behalf to welcome their new brother or sister into the family.
The appointment of a non-religious Godparent or Guiding Adult is included in most naming ceremonies, but not all. They are encouraged to write their own personal and meaningful promises for the ceremony; promising to be a part of your child’s life, show a special interest in their future and to be there for them as a friend as they grow up.
Adding a few elements to recognise your new roles as parents or designated guardians, such as the lighting of candles, giving of gifts or planting a tree are a lovely way to outwardly declare your vows toward the child.
Water for cleansing and light for guiding are strong symbols which can also be incorporated as part of your ceremony. It’s not about whether you hold a particular belief, but it can be about recognising yours and the child’s cultural heritage, or just a lovely thing to do to celebrate your new arrival and to get everyone together.
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Independent celebrants like myself can offer total flexibility for any occasion and I will both respect and reflect any religious or spiritual beliefs which you may or may not have. The choice to include content such as hymns, prayers, blessings or religious readings is entirely down to you.
If you feel that I am the right person to create your ceremony, I would love to meet with you.
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So let's talk!