Five Things to Remember While Naming Your Baby

So, you are expecting your next child and with all the exciting preparations to do, most of us (especially us women) love to explore possible baby names. Many of us already had a few in mind long before we were even expecting. However, now that it's impending, it's necessary, and it's permanent, what should you consider when naming your child?

Tip One:

The first thing you can do is brainstorm. Even if you feel you've really nailed the perfect name, a lot can happen in nine, maybe ten months. I know my husband and I have had lengthy discussions of future children's names and I'm not even pregnant. So, where to look for ideas? Hopefully, you're not looking to Hollywood, but I'll get to that later. Many of us want to consider close friends' and family members'. Also, there are many resources on baby names at the bookstore and on the Internet. It wouldn't hurt to look at those for inspiration.

Tip Two:

Remember, the names should flow well. First, middle, and last name should sound appropriate together. A long first name may not sound good with a long last name, and vice versa. Also, watch vowels. A first name ending in one and a last name beginning with one doesn't work out so well. (ex: Annie Eastman) Another thing you'll want to avoid are names that end up as puns…you will probably be the only one that appreciates that.

Tip Three:

If you are going to name your child after someone, make it someone worthy of looking up to. For example, a parent or grandparent is often a good idea and helps to instill family tradition. Also, a close friend who would be a great role model, and who will likely be your friend for life, is someone worthy. Always keep in mind what kind of character these people have and whether or not you wish your child to emulate them. If you don't get along so well with your brother because of the choices he makes, maybe you shouldn't name your child after him.

Tip Four:

Famous names aren't always a great idea. Remember, Hollywood isn't the most family-friendly place and it is very fickle. Let's say "Such and Such" is your favorite actor in the world. Well, is that good enough to merit naming your child after this person? My worst nightmare would be naming my child after someone I thought was the most talented musician in the world, only to hear about him OD'ing later. (But maybe it's just me that thinks of those things.) However, names from classical literature or history I think can be great. After all, they've stood the test of time and we know how their stories ended. Not to mention, naming your child Ophelia is much classier than Cher.

Tip Five:

There seems to be an influx of people giving their babies ridiculous names. Again, I scowl at Hollywood as I imagine Apple's first day of school. Well, at least apple is an actual word, maybe not a name, but a word. I know plenty of people either making up insane names or giving existing names insane spellings. (Or should I say, "insaygne" spellings?) Everyone wants their child to be unique, but that won't necessarily come from naming a child something embarrassing or even alienating to other children. Remember, it's not you who will be living with this name. There is something to be said for the standards.