Are you seeking a celebrant for a baby naming or blended family event? The non-religious celebrant-led ceremony marks parenthood and a new arrival. It’s an alternative to a Baptism (Christening) and welcomes your child, acknowledges their name and celebrates a blended family. How do you plan it?
What does a blended family mean? According to the Cambridge Dictionary. ‘A blended family consists of two adults, their child or children, and one or more children from previous relationships.’ So, becoming a new parent is exciting, yet challenging. As non-religious parents, you can mark this important milestone in a meaningful way.
The arrival of your child changes your life forever. How do you transition into a new blended family? Plan a baby naming event, two worlds become one. When should it happen? Who should you invite? I have answered these questions and many others below. Dive into your guide to planning a non-religious baby naming or blended family event. Read on.
Baby Naming Event – Non-Religious Ceremony Q & A
What is a naming ceremony?
Non-religious naming ceremonies are an alternative to traditional Christening or Baptism. During the ceremony, parents announce their new addition. The family is invited to celebrate the newborn and welcome them into the community. It’s a deeply personal and meaningful celebration. Moreover, it allows parents to honour the arrival of a child in a way that supports their beliefs.
How do you plan a non-religious ceremony?
Preparation and planning a baby naming event takes time and energy. Above all, the non-religious ceremony costs money. It can consume you! When the stress kicks in, you feel overwhelmed. Still, don’t try to do it alone. Seek the help of an experienced celebrant. They can support you with the set-up of your party. From non-religious readings, rituals, poems, and music, celebrants can help. Are you semi-religious parents? Weave in religious elements. From a bible reading, a hymn, to a gospel song. Celebrate the occasion your way.
How much does a baby naming ceremony cost?
A naming ceremony can cost between €350 and €1,125; this is the celebrant’s fee. Excluded are the location, food, drinks and outfits. So, make it easy! Determine beforehand how much you want to invest. Would you like a simple or elaborate non-religious baby naming event? The cost of a non-religious ceremony depends on your choices. If you prefer, ask a family member to conduct the event. This is a great way to personalise the event and save money. However, if they are unavailable, consider a celebrant or officiant.
How long does a naming ceremony last?
A naming ceremony lasts between 15 and 20 minutes. Therefore, think about a unique theme. Make, buy, or borrow decor to dress up the venue. Additionally, organise a choir or live music for the event. This will enhance the duration of the event. Remember, a non-religious baby ceremony is not legally binding. It allows for flexible celebration timings. Tip: Consider the child’s age when planning the ceremony.
Can I have an outdoor baby naming ceremony?
Hosting a blended family event or naming ceremony outdoors in your garden is ideal. But is your garden safe for children? Make it a safe place for your child’s celebration. Therefore, clean it thoroughly. First impressions count! Keep standards high. Have a quick clean up before the event. How do you maintain it? Try the quick and easy 15-minute daily routine. Go to realsimple.com/quickcleanup.
Ceremony timeline to celebrate your child or a blended family |
|
| Ceremony starts | between 11.00 – 18.00 hrs (No set time frame)
20 – 45 minutes |
| Celebrant’s welcome | 5 – 10 minutes. |
| Acknowledge absent family members. | 3 – 5 minutes. |
| Short reading/poem | 〃 |
| Naming of the baby | meaning of name | 〃 |
| Family ritual. | 〃 |
| Parents’ and supporting adults make promises. | 〃 |
| Grandparents’, close relatives and friends promises. | 3 – 5 minutes. |
| Short reading/poem | 〃 |
| Symbolism:
Everyone involved signs blessing certificate Candle lighting (optional)
|
3 – 5 minutes. |
| Presentation of a gift to the baby, child, teen, or adult. | |
| Celebrant’s closing words | |
| Ceremony ends!
Celebratory drink & snacks | toast
|
No set time frame |
Do you need catering for a naming ceremony?
Plan a food menu and drinks for the naming ceremony. Gather your recipes together. Choose tasty finger food, a buffet or hire a caterer. Make sure the food can be prepared in advance. Do you like frozen food or ready meals? This can be warmed up in minutes before guests arrive. Additionally, find out who is vegan, vegetarian or allergic to certain foods. Can you cook? If not, place an order with your local delicatessen or bakery. Or ask family and friends to contribute. And don’t forget the bubbly for the adults!
Do you need baby naming invitations?
The celebration of a birth is about giving your child a name. It represents a rite of passage and shows your commitment to the child. Send out special invitations. You can mail them, set up a party template, or use social media. You’ll receive a quicker response from TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, or WhatsApp. Perhaps you prefer old school, calling invitees personally by phone. This makes the occasion extra personal.
Who can perform a naming ceremony?
An officiant or celebrant can perform a baby naming ceremony. They will travel to your home or chosen location. The ceremony includes speeches, promises, readings, rituals, and music. Working closely with parents to learn about the child creates a unique experience. Are you planning a formal or informal naming ceremony? You can also hire a master of ceremonies or a wedding planner. Both can help host your event. The prices range from 450 up to 900 euros. Find out more online.
Naming day to remember and cherish your new bundle of joy forever! kristphoto.com
Can you ask family and friends to help?
Yes! When planning a naming ceremony, request help from family and friends. From the catering to the music to setting up your venue. Allow them to serve drinks and food. Are you having buffet or BBQ food? Before or after, they can tidy up for you. Perhaps you have a relative who is a musician. Get them to play live music during the ceremony. Get loved ones to take the weight off your shoulders. I’m sure they will be happy to help.
What is the dress code for a baby naming event?
Whether you dress up or down, an outfit is needed. Get your outfit sorted! A dress code for your naming ceremony adds a special touch. Clothing etiquette makes life easier for everyone. State your dress code on the invitation. It can be either formal or informal. Depending on your event, you decide what to wear. But you don’t need a dress code if it’s not your thing.
When is the best time for a naming ceremony?
Non-religious baby naming ceremonies are meaningful. The celebration is held from Monday to Sunday, 365 days of the year. The best times are 10 am to 6 pm. However, the event can be overwhelming for children. Thus, plan an event in Spring or Summer. A short and sweet ceremony is ideal for the kids.
Hand and footprint ceremonies. Shape every generation of modern-day parents. Darius, Arvo & Lavinia ©www.fischerfotografie.nl
Where can I host a naming ceremony?
There are many venues to host a naming ceremony. You set the tone and scene. Furthermore, use creativity to welcome your child to the family. Naming ceremonies can take place anywhere you choose. Opt for a garden venue, a child-friendly hotel, your home, or the grandparents’ house. Outdoor locations are perfect for a baby celebration. Tip: Be sure the venue is accessible to everyone.
What’s the difference between a baby naming event and a christening?
Baby naming events differ from christenings, there is no religious readings or Bible verses. The non-religious ceremonies are not held in a church. And can be with or without religious content. Christenings are spiritual, and during the ceremony, the child is baptised. What does being baptised mean? Church of England says: ‘Our ‘drowning’ in the water of baptism, where we believe we die to sin and are raised to new life, unites us to Christ’s dying and rising, a picture that can be brought home vividly by the way the baptism is administered. Water is also a sign of new life, as we are born again by water and the Spirit.’ Source: www.churchofengland.org.
Who do you invite to celebrate your child?
Baby naming events are popular in the UK. The non-religious ceremony marks the beginning of your child’s new journey. What’s more, it acknowledges their new name. It’s a celebration to mark who they have become. When planning a naming ceremony, it’s important to have guests. Therefore, create a guest list once you’ve selected the outfits and venue. Invite those who will support you, such as grandparents, family, and friends. Don’t forget about the nanny! Aim to invite 10 to 30 people, including children. Whether it’s a gender transition, an adoption, or a change of name, celebrate it! thecelebrantdirectory.com
Summary:
1. Choose guide parents
2. Select a ceremony date
3. Send out invites.
4. Speak to a celebrant/officiant.
5. Decide on a keepsake
5. Select an outfit
6. Pick a location
7. Book a reception venue (optional)
8. Hire caterers
9. Select 1 to 3 naming songs
10. Choose 1 or 2 rituals.
11. Include readings & poems.
13. Hire a photographer or painter.
14. Light a candle or sign a certificate.
Can you play baby naming event songs?
Planning a blended family event or naming ceremony? Are you seeking memorable songs? There are many available for a baby naming or blended family event. Songs full of love, commitment and guidance. As new parents, you can create a playlist. A non-religious ceremony shares your hopes for your child’s future. Select two to three songs to represent them.
Non-Religious Baby Naming Event
Readings, poems and spiritual quotes for naming ceremonies. The below are from the celebrantdirectory.com.
Jeremiah 29:11 (Bible, Christian) “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Psalm 127:3-4 (Bible, Christian) “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.”
Isaiah 49:16 (Bible, Christian) “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.”
From Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”
From Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss
“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. Steer yourself any direction you choose.”
“A Prayer for My Daughter” by W.B. Yeats
“I have walked and prayed for this young child an hour / And heard the sea-wind scream upon the tower…”
“On Children” by Kahlil Gibran
“Your children are not your children. / They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.”
“Welcome to the World” by Lucy Tapper
“The sun has come out, the sky’s shining bright, / Welcome to the world, it’s a magical sight.”
“If” by Rudyard Kipling
“If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster / And treat those two impostors just the same.”
“Child of the Universe” by Max Ehrmann (from Desiderata)
“You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; / You have a right to be here.”
While you are here…
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