Naming ceremony

This ceremony is an opportunity to welcome a child/children into a family and 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, chosen by you, to pledge their special relationship with your child. A naming ceremony is, in every sense, a unique occasion for everyone to feel involved and to offer their support in your child's future development.

Often these ceremonies are part of the announcement of the birth of a child but equally may take place for an older child in recognition of their individuality and place in society.

Parents of a child of any age can arrange a ceremony. If you are celebrating the birth of a new baby you may wish to include the naming of an older sibling or have them make promises to the new brother or sister.

It does not matter if you do not live in the Plymouth area, you can still arrange to have your ceremony here.

Your celebration can take place in the Register Office situated just behind Plymouth’s famous Hoe, with its secluded gardens, or in a venue registered by Plymouth City Council for this purpose.

The ceremony

The ceremony can be formal or informal. It can incorporate readings, poetry and music which is special to you. Friends and family, guiding parents and grandparents can take part. You can choose your ceremony. Just as no two children are the same, no two ceremonies will ever be the same. Our staff can guide you through the options available to you.

Order of service

• Introduction and welcome
• Naming
• Readings or a speech by a special guest
• Parent’s promises
• Guiding parent’s promises
• Grandparents
• Signing of the certificate
• Closing words

The ceremony will be conducted by a celebrant from Plymouth City Council Register Office who will follow the choices that you make for your ceremony. You will be lead through the ceremony, repeating words after the celebrant or making personal promises to your child. Guiding parents and grandparents may choose to make promises or affirm their support for your child. Special people in your lives can take part in the ceremony by presenting a reading or speech.

Fees

Fees for naming ceremonies are given below. It requires a non-refundable deposit of £30 to secure the booking. A further fee is payable prior to the day of your ceremony, the amount dependant on which day you have chosen.

(Subject to revue)

[Back to top]