Naming a human is a big deal! Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. 

Choosing a name for your baby is one of the most significant and exciting decisions you’ll make as a parent. It’s a name they’ll carry for a lifetime, a word that will shape their identity and how the world perceives them.

But with countless options swirling around, from classic to contemporary, and family traditions to trending themes, where do you even begin?

What to consider before you start choosing baby names

Before you dive headfirst into endless lists of baby girl names and baby boy names, let’s take a step back and consider a few key factors.

We’ve written this post to help guide you through the essential groundwork, helping you navigate the delightful (and sometimes daunting) journey of choosing a name for your baby.

Partner alignment

Naming a baby can sometimes be a bit of a minefield, especially when you and your partner have different ideas. That’s where good old-fashioned talking comes in. At times like these, open communication and a little compromise will go a long way!

Try brainstorming together, make a shared list of names you both like or dig into your family trees for unique options. Just keep chatting, and you’ll find a name that clicks for both of you.

Family and cultural traditions

Many new parents love honouring their heritage by using traditional names, or even passing down a beloved family name. It’s a beautiful way to connect your child to their roots. But, you may need to be prepared for potential in-family conflicts about certain names and continuing the family line. It’s important to have those conversations early and respectfully. Set boundaries if needed, and remember, it’s your baby, after all.

Girl name, boy name or gender-neutral name?

Another key point to consider is whether you want a classic “boy” or “girl” name, or are you leaning towards something more gender-neutral? Times are changing, and there’s a whole world of names out there that break the old moulds. Maybe you love the sound of a traditionally masculine name for a girl, or vice versa. It’s all about what feels authentic to you and your partner.

Future-proofing, what to consider

Let’s look ahead a bit. If you’ve got some baby names in mind, it’s a good idea to think about how they will sound when connected to a grown-up.

It’s also worth considering what your baby’s initials will be. You don’t want your child ending up with unfortunate initials like “B.U.M.” or something equally embarrassing! And not forgetting nicknames. Do your shortlisted names lend themselves to any nice nicknames?

 

 

 

 

 

Final decision and trusting your gut

So, we’ve covered all the key things to think about when naming your baby. Let’s wrap up with our top three tips.

Take your time

There’s absolutely no rush to make a final decision. If you’re still feeling unsure, it’s perfectly fine to wait until after your baby is born. Sometimes, seeing their little face will make the perfect name crystal clear.

Trust your instincts

Ultimately, the best name is the one that feels right to you and your partner. Don’t let anyone else’s opinions sway you if you have a strong feeling about a particular name. Remember, you are the parents, you know your baby best of all, and your opinions matter most.

Enjoy the process

Naming your baby is a fun and special time. Embrace the excitement and the joy of choosing a name that your child will carry with them for a lifetime.