This ceremony is suitable for naming babies and for children from birth to 15 years of age. You can also use the ceremony to celebrate adopting a child or the start of a new family with children from previous marriages.
What happens at a naming ceremony?
It is up to you to decide but it usually includes:
- a welcome and introduction
- naming the child
- you may want to say a bit about what you (as a parent) agree and promise to do
- a relative or friend of the family may want to say a bit about what they would agree and promise to do
- you may want to read a poem, reading or a special piece of text
- you might want to give a gift to your child
- you will sign the naming-ceremony certificate
The ceremony will last between 15 and 20 minutes. This will depend on what you have chosen to include in the ceremony. You can expect a basic ceremony (without readings and presenting of gifts) to last about 15 minutes.
The naming ceremony has no legal status. You may not use the naming ceremony to change your child's name. If your child's name is not how it appears on their birth certificate you should apply to change their name officially before you can have a naming ceremony.
This is a civil ceremony. If you want a religious ceremony you will need to contact a church.
How much does this cost?
You must pay for your ceremony when you book it. We are unable to refund the fee. The cost of the ceremony depends on the day, time and venue.
You can only book a naming ceremony if you are the parent or legal guardian of the child. You must also show us the child's birth certificate before the ceremony can take place.