What a Naming Day Really Involves (and Why Families Love Them)

Weddings might be the bulk of what I do, but naming days hold a special place for me. There's something lovely about a room full of people gathered not to watch two people marry, but to welcome someone brand new — usually someone far too small to have any idea what the fuss is about.

If you've been wondering whether a naming day is right for your family, here's what they're actually about.

So what is it?

A naming day is the non-religious cousin of a christening. It's a way to formally celebrate your child's name, say out loud the hopes you have for them, and gather the people who'll help them along the way — without a church or any religious element unless you want one.

It tends to suit families who aren't religious, families of more than one faith, or anyone who simply wants to mark the moment in their own way rather than a traditional one.

Who has them?

Most naming days I'm asked to do are for babies and little ones, but there's genuinely no age rule. I've marked the arrival of older children, adopted children, and whole families blending together. It's your celebration — we shape it around whoever you're welcoming.

What actually happens

No two are the same, because I build each one around the family. But there are some lovely threads that run through most: a warm welcome, the naming itself, a few words about where the name came from or what it means to you, and promises from parents about the kind of life you hope to give your child.

A lot of families also name guide parents — sometimes called godparents, though without the religious part — trusted people who promise to be in the child's corner as they grow. If you'd like a little ritual to mark it, candle lightings, wishing trees, and time capsules are all favourites that go down beautifully.

Where you can hold one

Anywhere, really. A backyard, a park, a favourite café, grandma's living room. Naming days are relaxed by nature, so they don't need a formal venue — just somewhere that feels like your family.

Come and say hello

A naming day is a joyful, no-pressure way to welcome your child and pull the people you love into one room. I'd be genuinely honoured to help you put one together — something warm, personal, and unmistakably yours.

If you're thinking about it, get in touch and tell me a little about your family. I'd love to hear from you.