What is a naming ceremony?
A naming ceremony is a special way of celebrating the birth of your child or welcoming the new arrival into the family and wider community. It is also an opportunity to declare, before family and friends, your promise to be as good a parent as you can, and for adult friends or relatives to confirm their special relationship with your child. It is a unique occasion for everyone to feel involved in as they pledge their love and support for your child's future development.
What happens at a naming ceremony?
All naming ceremonies have six essential sections:
- Introduction and welcome
- Reading
- Naming of the child (or children)
- Parent(s) promises
- Promises by supporting adults
- Closing words
You can choose to add any of the following additional sections:
- Parent(s) vows to each other or to the child or children
- Grandparent(s) promises
- Any further readings you may wish to have
There are many ways to make your child's ceremony a very personal and unique event.
Who will conduct the ceremony?
A trained professional celebrant from Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council will carry out the ceremony according to the choices you make.
How long does the ceremony last?
A basic ceremony usually takes about 15 minutes but can be up to 30 minutes if more readings and options are included.
Is there a certificate?
During the ceremony, a souvenir record of the ceremony is signed by parent(s), supporting adults and the celebrant.
Is the naming ceremony just for babies?
No. Children of any age can have a naming ceremony.
Can I include my other children?
Yes you can, and there is no additional charge. You may wish to include your older children in the ceremony as well as your new child.
Who can arrange a naming ceremony?
Any parent can make the arrangements, or anyone else who has parental responsibility or legal guardianship of a child. You will need to provide the full birth certificate as evidence before we can arrange a date for the ceremony.
Where are the ceremonies held?
The ceremony can take place at one of our approved venues or at the Register Office in Redcar. View the list of approved venues.
Do naming ceremonies have a legal status?
No, a naming ceremony is simply something that you, as a parent, choose to do as a public gesture of love and commitment to your child. The record of the naming ceremony cannot be used as proof of identification. The naming ceremony is NOT legally binding on those who take part in it.
Do naming ceremonies have a religious content?
No. The ceremony is purely secular.
How much does a naming ceremony cost?
Fees and charges vary depending on the venue you choose to have your ceremony at and the day of the week. Please call the Redcar Register Office on (01642) 444440 for further details.
Who should I contact to arrange a naming ceremony?
Please call the Redcar Register Office and we will take your details and arrange for a member of the team to discuss your wishes and the choices available.