A Christening or a Naming Ceremony? You can choose what’s right for you. 

It’s an exciting time – you’ve had a baby and really want to celebrate. But you’re not religious so a traditional christening doesn’t feel right?  

Christenings and baptisms have been around in the Christian faith since the 3rd century. They’re based in religion, involve the ritual of water being poured or sprinkled over the child’s head and are seen as welcoming the child into the church.

Increasingly though the ‘traditional’ approach, as with many other ceremonies isn’t right for everyone. There may be more than one religion in the family or you just want something a bit different.

So what’s the alternative?  Why not have a Celebrant-led Naming Ceremony?

What is a Naming Ceremony? 

It’s an independent ceremony – focusing on the child, family and the community that surrounds them. It’s truly personal and meaningful whatever the occasion. 

This type of ceremony is perfect for any age of child – not just a newborn. It can also be used to mark an adoption, or the coming together of two families.  In fact, it’s perfect for anything you want to celebrate with the important people in your life!

There are no limitations to your ceremony. You can include music, and readings to really personalise the event, there are no time constraints either. 

You can include rituals – you can choose the traditional water approach or create a certificate, plant a tree in your garden or light candles – if you have an idea, it can be included – a Celebrant can look at how these can work in your ceremony.  

The ceremony can be held anywhere – from something small in your garden to a budget-busting-themed idea in a venue. The opportunities are endless. 

Godparents – can we still have them?

Another of the key elements of a traditional ceremony is the appointment of Godparents.

In a Naming Ceremony, you can still include people, who you’d like to play a key part in your child’s life (or your own). They’re more commonly called Guide-parents but you can come up with your own personal title for them if you like – anything goes! They can write their own promise or commitments or I can help with these too.

So what does a Celebrant do?

Well, I bring all your ideas together. I’ll get to know you and your family and work with you to bring them to life and create your Naming Ceremony. And then importantly I lead your ceremony – I’ll be your MC. 

Every story is different so your ceremony will be too – truly personal to you and your family. 

What’s next?

So if you’re thinking about a ceremony, get in touch here.

I’m more than happy to jump on a call and talk through your ideas and how they can be turned into a truly memorable ceremony.  There’s also more information here on the process.