Usually, a non-religious naming ceremony happens outside a place of worship. And the service cannot contain any religious language or elements defined as spiritual. However, your child can still receive a special blessing. The ceremony can be led by a family celebrant or humanist.
It’s a fact that many parents are opting for a non-religious naming ceremony for their child. You know why? Well, it’s the perfect time to welcome a new member into your home. What’s more, everyone gets together as one big happy family. So, what’s the next step? That’s easy.
All you have to do is make that special someone officially a member of your family during a meaning of the name ceremony. See below 8 ideas for inspiration.
What Happens At A Non-Religious Naming Ceremony?
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1. Hold the naming ceremony in your home
To start with book a venue for your celebration. For a cozier atmosphere, though, why not hold the naming ceremony in your home. Bear in mind during the celebration, that you shouldn’t reveal or relay all your child’s personal secrets. See below about the format of the naming ceremony.
2. Use the services of a family celebrant
Next set the scene of your naming ceremony and ask a grand-parent to lead the ceremony. However, it could be too much work for them. If that happens, use the services of a family celebrant to conduct the celebrations.
3. Take Your Time
Family celebrants are skilled at performing a unique non-religious ceremony. However, finding the right one is like searching for the perfect pair of shoes. Don’t rush. Take your time. It is important that you feel comfortable with your celebrant so that you can communicate openly and freely.
4. Catchy family slogan
During the service present your child with a commemorative certificate or gift, this demonstrates your love. And remember, make sure you and your partner agree on the planning arrangements. One more thing, think up an awesome, catchy family slogan to keep things sweet.
5. Share, talk, listen
Another thing, carefully think about the planning of the day. Making the final decisions about how much the naming ceremony cost will take up a lot of time. Although this might seem like an obstacle. The celebration will be wonderfully gratifying. Remember to share, talk, listen and be thoughtful to yours, your partners and child’s needs.
6. Arrange fun entertainment
Remember to put on a fun, amusing and entertaining party so everyone will feel at ease. Experience a sense of occasion with family and friends. Include your child’s or stepchildren’s favorite music playlist. Or, other forms of entertainment they like.
7. Get help to make it an extra special event
In addition to that, decide if a naming ceremony is the right thing to do. In any case, you’ll appreciate the wonderful time of family bonding. Don’t try to plan the party alone. Get help from a trained celebrant. They are excellent mediators and will support you in preparing and setting up your event.
8. What Really Happens At A Non-religious Naming Ceremony?
Lastly, what really happens at a non-religious naming ceremony. Well, to start with all naming ceremonies have six essential sections:
- Introduction and welcome
- Reading
- Naming of the child (or children)
- Parents’ promises
- Promises by supporting adults
- Closing words
You can choose to add any of the following additional sections:
- Reasons for the names
- Hopes for the child’s future
- Parents’ vows to each other
- Grandparents’ promises
- Absent guests
- Further readings
- Presentation of a gift to the child.
Courtesy of: http://www.haringey.gov.uk/births-death-and-marriages/naming-ceremonies#whathappens
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