J – Joyful gifts
Gifts for sponsors and grandparents are a lovely way to say thank you. Candles can be lit during the
ceremony and given as gifts to celebrate the special role they will play in your child’s life.
K – Keepsakes
An order of service makes a beautiful keepsake, especially if it includes copies of readings and promises, or guests can be given packets of wildflower seeds or little pots of bulbs to plant at home.
L – Light a candle
Lighting a candle creates a beautiful moment of reflection during your naming ceremony. Light one for
your child and ask guests to light theirs from a single flame until the room is filled with flickering light.
M – Mix it up
If you’re a couple with contrasting faiths and cultures, don’t worry, there are no rules. You can include
both religious and non-religious content, plus all kinds of traditions. So if you’re Swedish Buddhists, bring
on the smorgastarta (savoury sandwich cake) and chanting!
N – New beginnings
However your family is formed (adoption, birth, or blending two families) a naming ceremony marks the
start of an exciting new chapter in your life. Planting a tree acts as a powerful symbol of growth and
potential.
O – Outdoor naming ceremonies
Rural and woodland settings are wonderful locations for naming ceremonies. They provide a connection
to the natural world and create a relaxed and informal atmosphere, which is perfect for family gatherings.
P – Promises
Oh heck, there’s going to be some tears! But this is probably the most important moment in your
ceremony. This is where parents, sponsors and family members pledge to guide the child they love
throughout their life. These words are deeply personal, so give them careful thought or ask your
celebrant for help.
Q – Questions...to help you plan
There’s really only one. What’s the feeling that you want for your event? This will help guide decisions
on location, styling, numbers, catering and the ceremony itself. Have fun, it’s going to be beautiful.
R – Readings
Readings really add colour to your ceremony. They can be funny and witty or thoughtful and reflective.
Choose readings that make you smile. If you’re brave enough, try writing something yourself. My Mum
read the poem I wrote for my daughter, as I thought I might cry!
S – Sponsors
Sponsors and Guide Parents are the equivalent to God Parents. They help to watch over your child as
they grow, acting as a sounding board, a role model (hopefully!) and a loving presence in their life.
Choose treasured friends or family for this important role.
T – Themes
Themes are a great way to bring together creative ideas. If family fun is your inspiration, then how about
Alice in Wonderland?, with decorations in vibrant colours and a vintage tea party after the ceremony.
U – Unity ceremony
These are lovely moments which symbolise togetherness. A sand ceremony is a perfect way to involve siblings and other children. Different coloured sands are poured into a single holder to signify the unity of family life.
V – Venue
A naming ceremony is a unique and heart-felt occasion, wherever it takes place. It can be where you got married, a woodland glade, the garden of your family home or a traditional village hall. Choose a
location that reflects your personalities, budget and style for the day.
W – Wishes and thoughts
Wishing trees, prints and jigsaws make wonderful alternatives to traditional guest books and can be
framed to remember all the special people in your child’s life.
X – Xs, hugs and tears
There’ll be plenty of these throughout the day, so be sure to have a great photographer on hand to
capture these beautiful moments.
Y – Your story
Your ceremony should tell the story of your family. If you’re writing your own script, think about the
things that have lead up to this day. If you’re working with a celebrant, spend time talking about what
makes your family tick. From the challenges that you’ve overcome to the moments of laughter, these are
experiences to share and celebrate.
Z – Zero hero
If you’re interested in keeping your impact to a minimum, hire decor, source natural and local materials and choose a venue that takes care of its resource use. Yours could be the first uber-stylish, zero carbon naming ceremony!
Contact:
Anne O’Brien, Celebrant, Bluebell Naming Ceremonies
07788 757822