Naming ceremonies
A warm welcome for the newest member of your family.
A personal, non-religious ceremony to welcome your child into the world, surrounded by the people who matter most.
What it can be
More than a milestone. A moment that means something.
A naming ceremony is a non-religious alternative to a christening. It is a joyful, heartfelt celebration that formally welcomes your child into your family and community, on your terms, in your words, in a place that feels right for you.
There are no rules about what it should look like. Some families gather in their garden with a handful of people. Others choose a hotel, a park, or somewhere that holds special meaning. What matters is that it reflects your family: your story, your values, and the love that surrounds your child.
It is a chance to pause, to celebrate, and to say out loud the things that matter. For many families, it becomes one of the most meaningful days they share together.
My approach
Written around your family. Shaped by what matters to you.
I take time to get to know your family before I write a single word. We will talk about your child, the story of their arrival, the meaning behind their name, and the people who will be part of the day.
From there, I will write a ceremony that feels genuinely yours. Warm, personal and full of the details that make your family who you are. I will guide the day with care, keeping things relaxed and natural so everyone can relax and enjoy the moment.
The result is a ceremony that feels real, not rehearsed. A moment your family will carry with them.
A note on availability
Naming ceremonies are something I offer selectively.
Naming ceremonies are a smaller part of my work and I take on a limited number each year. I tend to work with families I already know, often couples whose wedding I've led. But if you've come across my work and feel it might be a good fit, I'd love to hear from you. The most important thing is that it feels right for your family.
Personal elements
Every ceremony is different. Here are some of the things families choose to include.
Promises and wishes
Parents, grandparents and guideparents can make personal promises to the child: words of love, hope and commitment.
Guideparents
Special people chosen to play a meaningful role in your child's life, making their own promises during the ceremony.
Family Involvement
Siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles and close friends can all take part: readings, songs, or simply being there.
Stories and memories
The story of your child's arrival, the meaning behind their name, and the moments that have shaped your family so far.
Symbolic Moments
Tree planting, candle lighting, hand ceremonies, time capsules. Small rituals that carry real meaning.
Music and readings
Songs, poems or passages chosen by your family, whatever feels right and reflects who you are.
Kind words
"Michael created the most wonderful ceremony for our little one. It was personal, warm and full of joy. Our families were so moved. Several people said it was the most meaningful ceremony they'd ever attended."
Aoife & Mark
Naming ceremony, County Antrim
"We wanted something meaningful but relaxed, and Michael got the balance exactly right. The children were included beautifully, and the whole day felt like us."
Claire & David
Naming ceremony, Belfast
Read more kind wordsWondering if this is right for your family?
Naming ceremonies tend to suit families I've already worked with, but if you've found my work and it feels like a good fit, please get in touch.
Make an Enquiry