A lovely blog from my team member Laura following her recent Naming Ceremony in Farnham. . . 

"Despite the threat of rain, family and friends gathered in the beautiful walled Garden Gallery at Farnham Museum, to celebrate a very special sibling naming ceremony — for a lively six-year-old girl K, and her nearly two-year-old brother A, whose courage is matched only by the love that surrounds him.

The ceremony honoured the unique journey of each child — their names, their personalities, and the love they inspire. For their sister, it marked her growing role in the family; for their little brother, it was a chance to surround him with warmth, love, and the promise that his place in the family is cherished every day.

As their celebrant, I had the honour of introducing the children to their guests and sharing the stories behind their names — a moment long delayed by the COVID pandemic, which had prevented the family from hosting a naming ceremony for their firstborn. 

A British Summer shower briefly interrupted the celebration, but umbrellas, cardigans, and even baby muslins kept everyone dry — before the sun made its welcome return, and Poems were read for each child, by Dad, with heartfelt emotion. I then shared the parents’ hopes and dreams for their children with all who came to celebrate.

After sharing the family's wishes for the children, the Guests were given the chance to share theirs – they were asked to write heartfelt hopes and blessings for the children, placing them in “wish jars” to be read and treasured in the years ahead.

Seven Guide Parents had been carefully chosen, who would promise to take a vested interest in the children’s lives, and to be there as a friend and a source of welcoming advice, outside of the immediate family as they grow up. They made promises in front of the other guests and family and were presented with certificates, a gentle reminder of the important promises they made to walk beside these children as they grow. 

The ceremony closed with the family signing their memorial naming day certificates — K chose a pink sparkly pen to sign hers, and A’s orange inked fingerprints were proudly added to his.

This ceremony was more than a naming — it was a celebration of family, friendship, and the network of support that surrounds these children. It marked the start of many shared memories to come, grounded in love and strengthened by the promises made. This day will be remembered as one of connection — a reminder of how family and community hold space for joy, even when life’s journey is uncertain.

I want to thank the parents for inviting me into this precious moment in their lives and wish them both strength and joy as they continue to guide their children with such absolute love.

Laura x