Baby naming ceremonies
- What is a naming ceremony?
- Who can arrange a naming ceremony?
- Where can the ceremonies be held?
- Fees
- Points to note
- Further information
What is a naming ceremony?
A naming ceremony is a formal and dignified non-religious
ceremony to celebrate the birth of a child or to welcome an adopted
child or stepchild into a new family. The child or children can be
of any age.
The ceremony provides a formal opportunity to:
- welcome the child into the family and wider community
- announce the chosen names
- announce commitments to nurture and support the child into adult life
- choose other adults prepared to promise a special supportive relationship to the child.
Any parent or legal guardian can arrange a ceremony, whether
married or not, from any cultural background, with or without any
spiritual beliefs.
Every ceremony is unique and offers the flexibility to
meet the individual needs and wishes of the family. Ceremonies can
be specially compiled using the family's own selection of words,
poems and readings from a wide selection provided. There is the
flexibility to:
- choose a venue
- announce the commitments to be undertaken by the other supporting adults
- include grandparents in the ceremony
- refer to absent guests
- provide a special gift to the child
In all, it is a very meaningful and personal experience for
all those involved. A souvenir record of the naming ceremony
will be signed and presented during the event.
In Peterborough ceremonies can be held at the register office and at other approved
venues which are already licensed by Peterborough City Council
for civil marriage ceremonies.
2007
| Monday - Friday | £150 |
| Saturday |
£200 |
| Sunday |
£200 |
There are no additional fees for ceremonies at the Register
Office but for ceremonies at other venues there may be additional
charges for room hire, catering etc.
Neither the Naming Ceremony nor any document issued following
the ceremony has any legal status. Births must be registered prior
to the ceremony and the Birth Certificate must be produced when
booking the ceremony.
Further information can be obtained from Judy Moss, the
ceremonies co-ordinator at Peterborough City Council on 01733
566323 or judy.moss@peterborough.gov.uk