Naming ceremonies are one of my favourite things to do. They’re joyful, relaxed, often slightly chaotic, and full of the good stuff — love, laughter, and people who care enough to show up. A naming ceremony is a non-religious way to celebrate your child, welcome them into your family and community, and mark the moment they officially become themselves. No rules, no preaching, no pressure for perfection — just a meaningful ceremony, done properly and with heart.
But why choose a naming ceremony?
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Because sometimes you want to mark a moment without borrowing a ceremony that doesn’t quite fit.
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A naming ceremony gives you space to pause and say, out loud, that this child matters — to you, to your family, and to the people who have gathered. It brings everyone together to acknowledge what has changed, what you’re grateful for, and what lies ahead as a family.
They work beautifully if a christening isn’t right for you, but also if your family doesn’t fit into neat boxes. Naming ceremonies can celebrate new babies, adopted children, blended families, or simply the fact that life has shifted and you want to recognise it.
They’re personal without being overblown. Thoughtful without being heavy. And they’re shaped around real families — not rigid scripts, perfect behaviour, or doing things a certain way because “that’s how it’s done”.
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Most of all, a naming ceremony creates a shared memory. One that belongs to your child, and to everyone who was there on the day.
Naming Ceremony FAQs
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Is a naming ceremony legal?
A naming ceremony isn’t a legal process. It doesn’t change paperwork or records — it marks a moment in your family’s life and gives people a chance to gather and say, out loud, that this child matters.
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Do we have to be non-religious?
No. Naming ceremonies aren’t religious, but they are inclusive. If there are beliefs, values, or traditions you’d like to acknowledge in a natural way, we can do that without turning it into a service that doesn’t fit you.
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Who can be involved in the ceremony?
Anyone you want. Parents, step-parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, godparents, guide parents — or something entirely of your own making. There’s no set list and no hierarchy.
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What if my child cries, wriggles, sleeps or steals the show?
That’s all part of the fun. Naming ceremonies are built around real children, not perfect behaviour. Timings are flexible, and I'll fit in around nappy changes, crying and feeds.
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Where can a naming ceremony take place?
Almost anywhere — homes, gardens, parks, pubs, village halls, marquees, or picnic spots. As long as it’s safe and legal, it’s an option.
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How long does a naming ceremony last?
Usually around 25 minutes, though it can be shorter or longer. We work with attention spans, not against them.
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Can adopted or older children have a naming ceremony?
Yes. Naming ceremonies work beautifully for adoption, blended families, or marking a new chapter — whatever the age.
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Do you help us plan what happens in the ceremony?
Yes. I’ll guide you through the structure, ask the right questions, and make suggestions, helping you with readings and promises — but nothing goes in unless its right for you and of course
Where to start with how amazing Leni is...She has conducted 2 Naming Ceremonies for our children. We wouldn't have anyone else! She feels like so much more than a celebrant, she feels like an old friend who has known you all years! Leni is funny, kind, knowledgeable and full of great ideas. She listens carefully and created a completely personal ceremony that reflected our family perfectly. We had so many compliments on her presence and delivery. Leni is engaging and adds an essential part of love and laughter to her delivery. We are thinking of what events we can now have just to use her again!! We can't thank you enough Leni (and Dan!!) We wish you so much luck and happiness for the future and hope our paths cross again soon xxx
What's included
PERSONAL SERVICE
Initial face-to-face or Zoom consultation with continued support throughout your planning.
PRESENTATION
Professional delivery of your celebration ceremony.
EXPERT HELP
Assistance with poem, reading and music choices. Advice on how to structure your celebration.
KEEPSAKES
A presentation copy of your script and commemorative certificate.
UNIQUE SCRIPT
The words of your ceremony will be written just for you, completely personal to your story, no templates.
TRAVEL
Travel is included up to 20 miles from my base.
Naming and Welcoming Ceremonies
£350.00
"Leni carried out our daughter's Naming Day Ceremony, and the entire day could not have been more perfect. From the initial consultation to discover our needs, to the personalised script for the ceremony, she covered every detail we could of thought of, and many that we didn't! We were so happy to have Leni as a part of our day, and can't thank her enough."
