Including Loved Ones in a Naming Ceremony

Creative ways to involve family and friends when welcoming your child

One of the most beautiful aspects of a naming ceremony is that it celebrates not only your child, but the entire community that will support them as they grow. Including family and friends in the ceremony creates memories and a sense of belonging for everyone involved.

Here are some thoughtful ways to involve others:

1. Appoint guideparents or mentors
Many families choose guideparents, godparents, or mentors to stand alongside them. These roles are about lifelong support and care. You can invite them to make promises or read their own personal wishes for your child.

2. Involve grandparents
Grandparents often feel honoured to participate. They might share a reading, a cultural blessing, or simply stand with you as you welcome your child.

3. Readings and poems
Invite siblings, cousins, aunties, uncles or close friends to read a poem, story, or short extract that reflects the hopes and dreams you hold for your child.

4. Candle lighting ritual
A beautiful way to involve multiple people is a candle ceremony, where each person lights a candle from a central flame, symbolising their guidance and protection.

5. Wishing tree
Guests write blessings, hopes, or advice on cards and hang them on a decorative tree or branches, creating a keepsake for your child to look back on as they grow.

6. Gift giving or symbolic objects
Invite special people to present a small gift or token representing qualities they wish for your child – a book, a flower, a shell, or a handmade item.

7. Tree planting
Planting a tree together is a powerful symbol of growth and roots. You can invite everyone to place a handful of soil or water the tree together.

A naming ceremony is all about community. By involving your loved ones, you’re not only making the day memorable for them, but also showing your child that they are surrounded by a village of people who will love, guide, and stand by them always.