How to Pick a Baby Name (and Be Happy with It)

When one hears the news that he or she is expecting a child, it may be one of the most thrilling, if not anxious, moments of one's life. Along comes a flood of emotions, as well as, decisions to make. One of which is what to name this new precious addition to the family. The difficulty comes in the fact there may be too many options to choose from, and not knowing how to narrow them down. The pressure only increases when one realizes that this is the name the baby will have to live with for the rest of his or her life. So here are a few tips in finding that perfect name you always envisioned for your little one, and just didn't know where to start:

1. Think of people who are special to you:

Do you have a family member who has a special meaning to your life and that you would like to honor? It might be someone who has passed on but someone you will always remember for having such a deep and lasting impact in your life. It might be fitting then to give that name new life by giving it to your new baby.

2. Pick a name that has a special meaning to you:

Do you have a passion of any kind? Is there a specific trait you hold dear? Whether you name your child after a flower for your love of gardening (Violet, Jasmine) or after something you believe in, such as justice and righteousness (Justin), there is almost no limit to the names with meanings behind them.

3. Pick a name that fits the middle/last name:

It goes without saying that you want a name that flows and has a good overall sound to it. Therefore, pick a name that would flow together with its proposed middle name and its given last name. The easiest way to do this is simply to say the names out loud and look for any awkward pronunciations or unintentional humor, such as, "Chris P. Bacon" or "Brock Lee."

4. Choose a name that has a different number of syllables from the middle/last name:

A good name not only has good flow but should also have good rhythm. A way to achieve this is by alternating the number of syllables between each name. For example, the order of syllables can be 1-2-3 for the first, middle, and last names, such as James Taylor O'Connor.

5. Think of a name that fits your lifestyle:

Are you a trendy hipster or a preppy Ivy League grad? The lifestyle of your choice should influence the choice you make for your baby's name. A "Henry" would more easily fit a traditional, upper class family than a "Jaden" or "Skye."

6. Narrow down the search:

Once you have an idea of what kinds of names you like, the next step is for you and your significant other to make a top ten list. Then, sit down and compare lists, and if any of the names match, that would be your short list.

Always keep your eyes and ears open; the perfect name for your new little bundle is out there waiting to be found by you.

Sources:

Audrey Cowan, "How to Choose your Baby's Name." adoption.com

"Tips for Choosing A Great Baby Name." uberarticles.com

Dwain Pipe, "Funny Names." Babynames.co.uk

"Picking a Name with Rhythm." Family Education

www.thinkbabynames.com