Introduction to naming ceremonies

A celebrant-led naming ceremony provides families with a meaningful, personalised way to welcome a new child into the world and celebrate their name. These ceremonies can be non-religious or include spiritual elements, depending on the family’s preferences.

Naming Ceremonies by a celebrant

A naming ceremony is a beautiful way to celebrate the arrival of a new child and to celebrate with the parents, family, and community that will support and nurture them as they grow. Whether it’s welcoming a newborn, celebrating an adoption, marking a significant moment in your child's life, or celebrating a gender and name change, a naming ceremony provides an opportunity to create lasting memories with family and friends.

As a professional celebrant, I specialise in crafting personalised naming ceremonies that reflect the uniqueness of your child and your family’s values. Together, we will design a service that is meaningful, joyful, and full of love — a celebration of the new name and the life ahead of them.

What is a naming ceremony?

A naming ceremony is a non-religious or interfaith celebration that focuses on the importance of the name, the commitment of the parents and godparents (or guardians), and the family’s role in supporting the child as they grow. It is a perfect alternative for those who prefer not to have a traditional religious christening or baptism, but still want to mark this important milestone in a meaningful way.

Personalised and meaningful celebrations

Every naming ceremony is unique. I work closely with families to understand their story, values, and the wishes they have for their child's future. This allows us to create a ceremony that feels deeply personal and reflects the individuality of the child. Some elements we can include in a naming ceremony might be:

  • The person’s name: The central focus of the ceremony, where the name is celebrated and its significance is shared with the guests.
  • Family and Supporter Commitments: Parents, godparents, or guardians may make promises or vows to support the child in their journey through life.
  • Readings and Music: You can include special poems, readings, or songs that resonate with your family, values, or the child’s heritage.
  • Symbols and Rituals: Consider adding meaningful rituals, such as candle lighting, planting a tree, or other symbolic gestures that reflect the values you wish to instil in the child.

The role of the naming celebrant

As your celebrant, I will:

  • Collaborate with you to create a personalized ceremony that is meaningful to your family.
  • Write a unique script that reflects your wishes, values, and traditions.
  • Guide you through the ceremony, ensuring a smooth and heartfelt experience for everyone involved.
  • Ensure that the ceremony is inclusive, whether it’s non-religious or incorporates spiritual or cultural elements.
  • Help you select the perfect words, music, and rituals to create an experience that everyone will cherish.

Celebrate your child's name and future

A naming ceremony is not just about giving a name; it’s about celebrating the beginning of a new life and the potential that lies ahead. It’s a time to gather your closest friends and family to show your love and support for the person at the heart of the ceremony, and to create a moment that will be remembered for years to come.

Naming ceremonies and other celebratory ceremonies pricing

Pricing is based upon the following:

  • Meetings online and/or face-to-face from meeting to the day of your event
  • WhatsApp, phone and email contact with Helen.
  • Celebration script written and drafted with your thoughts, special wishes and symbolic rituals all included.
  • Optional creation of your own individual symbolic rituals
  • Inclusion of all cultures, faith, loves and family into the service.
  • Celebration rehearsal just before the day!
  • Recce with the couple to the venue before the day
  • Arriving early at the venue on the day of the celebration, ensuring that all of the day is carefully crafted to ensure your perfect service.
  • Providing a beautiful and memorable celebration!

£350 total

A non-refundable £50 deposit will hold the day and Helen’s services for you as a couple. If the venue is over 20 miles from Billingshurst, West Sussex, then additional mileage will be charged.