A naming ceremony is a lovely way to welcome your child into your family and wider community. It’s a chance to gather those who matter most, share your hopes for your child’s future, and mark this moment in a meaningful way. Together, we’ll create a ceremony that reflects your family, your values, and what you want this day to represent. It’s about celebrating your child as an individual, welcoming them into your community, and, if you wish, choosing guide parents (an alternative to godparents) who will play a special role in their life.

There’s no set format. Your naming ceremony can be as simple or as celebratory as you like, and it can take place almost anywhere – at home, in a garden, a park, a hall, or somewhere special to you.

· Messages of support and promises from friends, family, or chosen family

· Symbolic rituals, such as lighting candles or planting something meaningful

· Music, readings, or poetry that reflect you

· The name reveal — a moment to be celebrated however you choose

Others prefer something beautifully simple: heartfelt words about who their child is and what they mean to them.

Naming ceremonies aren’t just for babies. They are a powerful & affirming way for trans and non-binary adults to celebrate who they truly are. For many people, choosing a name later in life is a meaningful step – letting go of something that never quite fitted, & stepping fully into their truth. It offers a moment to mark that change, it isn’t about paperwork or legal processes. It’s about affirmation. It’s about being seen, heard, and recognised for who you are – on your own terms.

There’s no set format -it’s about creating a moment that feels right for you.

As your celebrant, my priority is creating a safe, respectful, and affirming space. That means:

· Using the right language and pronouns

· Respecting your privacy and boundaries

· Never making assumptions

· Being open to doing things differently

Not everyone has support from their family of origin, but community can still show up in powerful ways. Seeing people stand beside you and say, “We see you. We love you,” is at the heart of what ceremony can offer. These ceremonies can be deeply moving — and they can also be joyful, colourful, and fun, this is your moment and it should feel like you. Know this: you are worthy of celebration. I’d be honoured to help you mark this moment with care, warmth, and respect.