Helpful Tips for Picking Baby Names:

You’ve been charged with an awesome responsibility: choosing a name for your baby. It’s exciting and yet can be an overwhelming task. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process.

1. Decide the type of name you want for your child.

Do you want a classic name or one with a modern twist? Will a longer name flow better with your surname or one with fewer syllables? Thinking about this up front will help you zero in on the perfect name for baby.

2. Pick the right name for your child.

Don’t feel pressure to please anyone other than your baby with the name you choose. After all, they are one that will have to live with the name.

3. Imagine your child living with the name in the future.

Give any potential names the “playground test”. Imagine calling to your child across a crowded playground. Do you see other parents whipping their heads around to see who named the poor child Hubert Eugene? And imagine your child later in life introducing themselves at work. Sunshine may sound sweet for an adorable baby girl, but may be a burden for a corporate lawyer.

4. Don’t go overboard in the uniqueness of your baby’s name.

In recent years the trend of unique spelling’s and made up names has become popular. But remember, as in fashion, all trends fade.

5. Make the middle name something special.

You can get more creative with the middle name. This is also the perfect way to honor a family name if that is what you would like to do.

6. Be conscious of the initials.

Make sure the beautiful name you pick doesn’t leave your child with undesirable initials. Ashley Simone Smith is a lovely name but the initials are quite unfortunate and will lead to a lifetime of embarrassment.

7. Don’t solicit advice from friends and family

Unless you are prepared to give everyone a vote on the name you choose for your baby, it’s a good idea to keep prospective names between you and your partner and unveil the final name once you’ve decided upon it. This will spare you unsolicited advice and avoid any hurt feelings by those offering it.