Name Giving Ceremony

Welcoming the newborn and celebrating the transition to parenthood.

A humanist alternative to a religious ceremony (such as a christening), providing parents with an opportunity to celebrate the birth of their child with family and friends.  Traditionally, depending on which part of the world celebrated it, the ceremony took place between three days and three months after the birth of the child.   

There is no right or wrong way to create this ceremony.  The celebration focuses on the transition of adults to becoming parents, the life of the newborn and acknowledging the guide parents / life mentors / supporting adults; however you wish to refer to the non-religious option of godparents.

Rituals enhance the significance of the occasion and could include:

  • signing a naming certificate

  • creating a photobook where guests write words of advice for the child

  • planting a tree to symbolise personal growth

  • a time capsule preserving items of significance to opened on the child’s 18th or 21st birthday

  • lighting candles representing hope and warmth to brighten the child’s life

Anything that reflects your values and vision.

Melisa obtains a sense of satisfaction from celebrating new life.  Her calm and nurturing nature resonates with children they often want to be in her arms!

Melisa can also assist you with baby showers, pregnancy parties or gender reveals.

The Process

  • Vibe check. You and your partner (if applicable) & Melisa chat via zoom (15 - 30 minutes).

    Let her know the details of when and where. She would like to know your plans and discuss how she can assist you.

    This is an opportunity for you to ensure that Melisa is the person you feel comfortable introducing to your child/ren.

  • You’ve seen enough – you want Melisa!

    Sign her service agreement and pay the non-refundable, non-transferable booking fee to secure your chosen date.

    Melisa will arrange a second meeting to dive headfirst into planning the ceremony.

  • Tell Melisa the story of when you decided to have children, about the pregnancy and birth experience and what your dreams are for the child’s future.

    She will provide you with resources and information to guide you through the decisions to create the perfect ceremony.

    Once the decisions are finalised Melisa will email you a copy of the ceremony for approval.

  • Melisa will arrive 30 minutes prior to the ceremony to check that everything is ready to commence.

    You, your family and guests will experience a unique event.