Baby Naming Ceremony

Naming ceremonies are intended to offer a way of celebrating a child's birth and welcoming the new arrival into the family and the wider community. They are non-religious. The ceremony is tailor-made to suit you. Naming ceremonies are not restricted to babies. More than one child in the same family can be included in the ceremony for no additional charge.

The naming ceremony normally includes:

• Introduction and welcome Readings by the celebrant or by guests
• The naming of the child or children
• The parents' promises
• The promises by the supporting adults (the equivalent to godparents in a church christening)
• The closing words

Any parent or guardian of the child can make the arrangements for a ceremony. The parents do not need to be married.

Ceremonies can take place at any of our approved venues for marriage, by arrangement with the venue. We will also come and deliver a ceremony at your private house (subject to preliminary inspection.) The fees we charge are as shown on our separate price list.

You have a lot of freedom to design a ceremony that will be personal to you. We will be happy to work with you in this. However, naming ceremonies have no legal status, and cannot be used to change a child's name. You should still register your baby's birth with us or another register office prior to arranging a naming ceremony.