Naming and Blending Ceremonies:
Each naming ceremony is as unique as the person or thing being named. They can include music, singing, poems, readings, parental promises to their child, the appointment of ‘godparents’ or ‘guideparents’, the promise to keep the shed clean or the boat afloat. Perhaps a symbolic action such as planting a tree, signing a certificate, writing in a wish book, handing a name over the door or smashing a bottle of something on the bow. It is a distinctive and very special ceremony.
How does a Naming Ceremony differ from a Christening?
A naming ceremony will usually not be held in a church. Also you have the option to either include or omit religious content. Unlike a Christening, they are not officiated by a priest or a member of the clergy.
A naming ceremony is a wonderful way to celebrate the birth of a new baby or to welcome an adopted child or step-children into your family. These ceremonies are usually arranged by the parents or guardian, and because there is no age limit anyone can be included.
Like a Christening, a naming ceremony has no legal standing. However, it is an occasion for a public gesture of love and showing of support for your child(ren).
What is the point of a naming ceremony?
The arrival of a new baby, adopted child, or stepchild into your family is a life-changing moment. HMD Celebrants recognises what joyful and positive event a naming ceremony can be. It is a fabulous opportunity to gather family and friends to celebrate such wonderful news.
Not only will you be introducing a new person by name, you will also be expressing gratitude for their presence, marking your commitment to their welfare and happiness and welcoming them as a precious, significant person. You are acknowledging they are special in your life and the lives of your family and friends.
Why have a celebrant for a name ceremony?
You don’t have to, but when you work with HMD Celebrants, you’re working with someone with training, skills, and experience in creating inclusive, family-friendly ceremonies. Having a professional celebrant managing the ceremony frees you up to mingle with guests and relax and enjoy such a special day without worry.
Where can you hold a naming ceremony?
A naming ceremony can take place anywhere. The possibilities are as endless as your dreams.
What happens at a naming ceremony?
It’s entirely up to you how the ceremony is structured and what it includes. Working closely with your celebrant you can plan and create a ceremony which is entirely right for you and your family circumstances. Your celebrant will have lots of ideas and suggestions. It could be short, formal and structured or, some families, want a whole day for fun with the ceremony being worked in.
If you would like to speak at the ceremony, you might like to choose words that you, as parents, want to express regarding your hopes for and promises to your child.
Selecting poetry, extracts from favourite stories, or including quotes and sayings can add variety, interest and meaning to a naming ceremony. By including readings in the ceremony, you are creating opportunities to involve family members or close friends.
Can we have Godparents at a naming ceremony?
Traditionally the role of Godparent is to guide the child in the Christian faith. Understandably inappropriate if you are not a religious family so, for this reason, naming ceremonies will often include ‘guideparents’.
If you wish to choose guideparents to act as supporting adults with a special interest in, and a commitment to your child throughout their life, you can invite them to make commitments or promises as part of the ceremony. You can also have as many as you would like.
Naming ceremonies for older children
In the case of older children – adopted children or step-children taking on a new surname, the ceremony can focus more on expressing love for them, celebrating their unique character and personality, and acknowledging the important part they play in your family. There are many different types of rituals we could incorporate, such as Sand Blending.
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