Naming and Adoption Ceremonies FAQs

What is the difference between a Christening and a Naming Ceremony?

A christening is a religious ceremony, usually held in a church, where a child is baptised and welcomed into the Christian faith.

A naming ceremony is a non-religious celebration that can take place almost anywhere and is open to families of all beliefs (or none).

At its heart, a naming ceremony does many of the same things: it celebrates your child, formally gives them their name, and gathers loved ones to offer support and love. Parents and guideparents (the non-religious alternative to godparents) often make promises to care for, nurture, and support the child as they grow.

The key difference is freedom. With a celebrant-led naming ceremony, you choose what’s said, who’s involved, and how the ceremony feels. It can be joyful, playful, emotional or a mix of everything that feels right for your family. Religious elements can be included if you wish, but they’re never required.

Is a naming ceremony a non-religious alternative to a christening?

Yes. Many families choose a naming ceremony specifically as a non-religious alternative to a christening, while others choose it simply because it feels more personal, flexible, and inclusive.

There’s no single “right” reason, just what feels right for you and your child.

Where can a Naming or Adoption Ceremony take place?

Almost anywhere. One of the joys of a naming or adoption ceremony is that there are no location restrictions. Your ceremony could take place:

• At home or in your garden

• In a park, woodland, or by the sea

• At a village hall or family venue

• Somewhere that holds special meaning for you

If it matters to your family, it’s the right place.

Who decides what goes into our Naming or Adoption Ceremony?

You do, with as much or as little guidance from me as you’d like. I take time to get to know you as a family and to understand what welcoming your child (or marking this moment) means to you. I can help shape the structure, suggest wording, and offer ideas, or simply support you in writing your own promises and readings.

Everything we include is agreed together, so the ceremony feels genuine, meaningful, and completely yours.

Can we involve siblings, family members, or guideparents?

Absolutely. Naming and adoption ceremonies are all about connection and belonging.

Siblings, grandparents, guideparents, and friends can be involved through readings, promises, music, or symbolic moments. I’ll support everyone taking part so they feel confident and comfortable on the day.

What usually happens at a Naming or Adoption Ceremony?

Every ceremony is different, but many include:

• A warm welcome and your child’s story

• Readings, poems, or music

• Promises from parents and guideparents

• Symbolic moments or rituals (if you’d like them)

• The formal naming or welcoming moment

After the ceremony, you’ll receive a keepsake copy of the script, and often a naming or welcome certificate to treasure.

How does the planning process work?

We begin with a relaxed, no-obligation chat to talk about your family and what you’re hoping for. This can be in person or online.

Once you decide to go ahead:

• I’ll send you a family-focused questionnaire

• We’ll meet again to shape the ceremony

• I’ll write the ceremony and share it with you well ahead of the day

• You can review and tweak anything you wish

On the day itself, I arrive early, welcome guests, support those taking part, and lead the ceremony calmly and warmly.

Can we include rituals in our naming ceremony?

Yes rituals can be a beautiful way to add meaning and individuality. Some families choose candle lighting, sand ceremonies, memory boxes, planting, or something completely unique. If you’re unsure, I can suggest ideas, or we can keep things beautifully simple.