The Art of Naming: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Name for Your Child
- Cas Holmes
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Choosing the perfect name is an art that blends creativity and strategy, but it’s also one of the earliest and most meaningful acts of love a family can make. A name carries identity, family history, culture, and the stories we pass on. As someone who conducts baby naming ceremonies, I see every day how names shape who we are and how we feel. For many parents, choosing a name has become more intentional, more expressive, and more connected to meaning than ever before.
The Shifting Landscape of Names
Names rise and fall in popularity for all sorts of reasons — cultural trends, television, politics, celebrity influence, and even global events. George, for example, remains a firm favourite in both the UK and the USA, while names like Donald are far less commonly chosen these days. Barron saw a noticeable rise in the US after Trump’s first election, though not in the UK.
On the girls’ side, names such as Hattie and Paisley are currently popular in both countries. Melania and Ivanka had a brief surge during Trump’s presidency but have since declined. These patterns show how easily we can be influenced by the world around us, sometimes without even realising it.
Naming Trends for 2026
Alongside these cultural shifts, there are clear patterns emerging for 2026. In the UK, the predicted top girl names include Olivia, Amelia, Isla, Aurelia, and Lily — a blend of traditional favourites and softer, luminous names linked to nature and light. For boys, Muhammad, Noah, Theo, George, and Leo are expected to lead, continuing the trend for short, warm, vowel‑rich names.
There are also some interesting rising trends:
“Cowboy cool” names such as Caleb, Austin, and Jesse
Pop‑star‑influenced names like Dua and Lara
Glow‑up names linked to light and positivity, including Ayla, Clara, and Asher
These trends show how parents often gravitate toward names that feel hopeful, gentle, or strong — qualities they want to gift to their child.
When a Name Changes Meaning
One of the clearest examples of a name shifting dramatically in public perception is Isis. Once associated with the powerful Egyptian goddess of magic and motherhood — and popularised again in the 1970s by the TV show The Secrets of Isis — it became difficult for many families after the rise of the terrorist group of the same name. People with the name Isis have spoken about the hurtful comments they’ve received, and while the name is slowly being reclaimed, it shows how unpredictable the future can be.
Parents can’t foresee every cultural change, but they can think about how a name might be experienced by a child growing up. Some may choose to use a nickname, initials, or a middle name if needed. Others might prefer derivatives such as Izzy, Iris, Isadora, or Isa.
Weapon‑Related Names and Their Impact
Some names linked to weapons or war can be challenging for children, especially at school. A name that feels bold or symbolic to a parent may lead to teasing or uncomfortable questions for a child. If parents love a name with a strong or martial meaning, one option is to use it as a middle name.
Interestingly, many names with war‑related origins are widely used without people realising.
Freya (Norse goddess of love and war), Louis/Louise (famous in battle), Casey (brave in battle), Marcella (young warrior), Marcus (manly, hammer), Jet (ruler), Harold (army ruler), Nathan (courage and honour), Fallon (leader), and Nikita (victory) all carry strength without being overtly associated with weapons.
The Celebrant’s Perspective
As a celebrant, I’m deeply interested in the language we use and the emotional impact it has. Words matter — they shape how we feel, how we connect, and how we honour life’s milestones. When I write a ceremony script, I take great care with every phrase because I know how powerful those moments can be for families.
The benefits of a Naming Ceremony
A naming ceremony is a beautiful, inclusive way to welcome a child into the world, whether by birth or adoption. It’s flexible, personal, and entirely shaped by the family’s values. You can hold it at home, in your garden, at a favourite pub or hotel, or anywhere that feels meaningful.
What a Naming Ceremony Can Include
Guideparents (similar to godparents)
Your child’s name story — why you chose it and what it means to you
Readings that reflect your family’s values
Optional religious or spiritual touches
Support for guideparents so they feel confident in their role
A ceremony tailored to your family’s story
Above all, a naming ceremony creates a moment of happiness, connection, and belonging — something your family will treasure for years.
Final Thoughts - Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together For Your Ceremony
We can never fully predict how a name will be received in the future. Trends shift, meanings change, and the world moves quickly. But what remains constant is the love behind the choice.
My role as a celebrant is to honour that love, support families through the process, and create ceremonies that celebrate life, identity, and the stories that shape us. I am hear for you to create that ceremony you really want!
If you're planning a naming ceremony and want a celebrant who’s all about meaningful, personal vibes and personal stories—I’m here for it. Drop me a message at ritesofw@gmail.com, text or call 07305 002858, or fill out the contact form so we can chat about how we can make your day unforgettable.
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