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?
