Naming Ceremony
in Bristol & the surrounding area
Children born of fairy stock, never need for shirt nor frock …They live on cherries, they run wild. I’d love to be a fairy’s child
Robert Graves
Naming Ceremony
Naming ceremonies are delightfully vibrant occasions, sometimes mimicking the chaotic and ambling flow of life with a newborn!
Usually held in a community space, at home, or outdoors, a naming ceremony is your baby’s first official ‘meet and greet’ — a chance to gather your favourite people and set your intentions for raising and nurturing your precious bundle. The tradition is born from that of christening a child, and although a naming ceremony is not a religious event, there are many meaningful (and sometimes emotional) gestures that can be built into the day.
Some parents take a back seat and invite friends and relatives to participate in the ceremony, while others choose to read something themselves or include a symbolic gesture such as a sand or water ritual. It’s also the perfect opportunity to introduce godparents or guideparents, and siblings or other children can be involved in the proceedings too.
As with all ceremonies, a naming ceremony is laden with conscious intent. We allow the story of your baby’s arrival — and the choice of name — to be spoken out, while your guests bear witness to the journey so far. We share our dreams and desires for your child to live an abundant life full of joy and love. We introduce this new small person, so vulnerable and full of wonder, to their community, their wider family, their heritage. We give them context and pledge their safety in their new environment.
Your Bristol naming ceremony will be highly individualised according to your own wonderful uniqueness and that of your family. Whether it is a very social affair or something more subdued, it will be a deeply satisfying experience and a rare opportunity to celebrate new life and make manifest the connections that exist between you.
If you’re planning a naming ceremony in Bristol (or nearby), I’d love to help you create something warm, personal and memorable.
What to Expect
We start with a relaxed chat.
No pressure. Just a chance to hear your story.
Then we shape something personal.
I’ll guide you with ideas, readings, rituals — whatever feels right.
Together we craft the ceremony.
You’ll see drafts, suggest changes, and make it truly yours.
On the day, I hold the space.
So you can be fully present.
Frequently asked questions
Almost anywhere — at home, in a garden, outdoors in nature, or in a hired space. Many families in Bristol choose somewhere that already holds special meaning. The beauty of a naming ceremony is its flexibility; we can create something beautiful wherever feels right for you.
A naming ceremony is a non-religious celebration that welcomes your child into their family and community. Inspired by traditional christenings but free from religious structure, it’s a chance to gather your favourite people, formally announce your child’s name, and share your hopes and promises for their future.
No, a naming ceremony is not legally binding — it is a symbolic, celebratory occasion led by a celebrant.
Anyone who holds a meaningful place in your child’s life can be part of the ceremony. Naming ceremonies are wonderfully inclusive and can reflect the true shape of your family — whether that’s parents, step-parents, blended families, grandparents, chosen family or dear friends.
Most naming ceremonies last between 20–40 minutes.
Latest blogs about Naming Ceremonies
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Clare talks to BBC Radio Bristol!
I was declared a Local Expert by John Dervall from BBC Bristol! We talked about the history and origins of the expression ‘tie the knot’. Honestly, I really didn’t need much encouragement to chat about one…
