In recent times naming ceremonies have become popular as a non-religous equivalent of a christening where a young child, between 6 weeks and 2 years old, is introduced to their family and social group, and has a "life gaurdian" appointed by the parents of the child.

Depending on the formality of the occasion it is either called a Naming Ceremony or a Naming Day:

• Naming Ceremony: Usually held at a formal venue with a ceremony conducted either by a trained celebrant or the parents themselves. The ceremony can last up to 30 minutes with poetry or prose read out, with music played in the background. The main reason for the ceremony is to allow the parents to publicly affirm their love and commitment to their child in the presence of family and friends, formally announce the name given to the child, and to appoint "guide parents", "supporting adults" or "mentors" (the equivalent of godparents) who will morally and emotionally support the child during its life and act as the child's "life guide".
• Naming Day: A less formal occasion, usually held in the parents home and involving a meal, and being simply a gathering of friends and family to celebrate the birth and naming of the child. "Guide parents" can appointed if felt appropriate by the parents. A speech is usually made by the parents explaining why the name was chosen and its significance.

As naming ceremonies are reasonably recent, the "rules" are still pretty flexible. When it comes to gifts, they should celebrate the birth of the child (naming a star after the child, a tree planting, a mint coin set from the year of birth, a hand-made photo album for baby pictures), or contribute to the future of the child (a bank account or shares in the child's name, a special edition toy (to be kept in its box), a family heirloom or keepsake from family members). Also appropriate is a St Christophers medal symbolising protection during the child's travel through the journey of life.

Namesday

The tradition of the Namesday has been celebrated in Europe for many centuries. It is similar to the modern naming ceremony whereby a child is appointed a sponsor and the child takes the christian name of their sponsor as either their first name or middle name. This occasion is celebrated by the family and friends of the child and the sponsor is formally endorsed to be a role model for the rest of the child’s life, and publicly avows to uphold the obligations associated with this role.

Naming Day Gowns

While a traditional christening gown is still appropriate for the very young ones to wear at their naming ceremony, we have recently provided various designs of our gowns in size 1 or 2 for older children.

While white, bridal white and ivory are the preferred traditional colours (along with lemon, pale blue and pastel pink), the move away from traditional and formal christenings to more relaxed and informal naming ceremonies has also been reflected in a wider choice of colours being requested. Light and bright spring colours or warm earth tones of browns and oranges are good choices.