Baby names

Everyone has different criteria for selecting a baby name, and then there’s the conundrum of finding one that you both agree on. It can’t remind you of an old classmate that annoyed you, or a family member you can’t stand; and it has to be something you’ll always smile fondly about because let’s face it, like marriage—it’s a lifetime commitment. No pressure! We’re here to help. Give these tried-and-tested exercises a shot or get inspired by what parents the world over are most leaning toward.

Begin with your intentions

Choosing a baby name is an intensely personal process and can sometimes be very complexe. Of course, you want to give your baby’s name a strong meaning and a story that can motivate them to live up to their namesake or emulate the qualities that inspired you. The first thing you need to determine are your intentions—and remember, there are two of you, so share nicely!

Let tradition reign!

Some people choose to go the very traditional route of looking within their family to name their baby. It could be after a parent or grandparent, or someone you’ve lost whose memory you would like to honour. It gives your children’s name a powerful backstory. Just make sure you think long-term. Chances are if you give your baby a name from your family tree, the next one’s from the other side, so makes sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. If you choose to eliminate this option, continue reading.

Visit name banks

So, you’ve decided your baby won’t be named after your great aunt Mary who saved you from drowning when you were four and you need some inspiration. There are countless resources online to help you. Use those intentions you outlined in the beginning and look for the different meanings of all your favourite names. You might not want your baby’s name to be loaded with significance, but it’s always good to know you’re not naming your child after a gorilla in a foreign language—or you maybe do, we’re not judging. 

Draft up your wish lists

Time to start the process of elimination. You and partner can make your own lists, compare and consolidate. You might be surprised that you have a few names in common, or you might discover a few that you hadn’t thought about.

Finally, if you don’t want your child to be completely one-of-a-kind in the sandbox, gather some inspiration from what’s trending. The most popular baby names of 2019 are: Drum roll, please!

GIRL

1. Olivia

2. Emma

3. Ava

4. Isabella

5. Sophia

6. Amelia

7. Mia

8. Charlotte

9. Harper

10. Luna

BOY

1. Noah

2. Liam

3. Elijah

4. Oliver

5. Lucas

6. Mason

7. Ethan

8. Logan

9. Jackson

10. Aiden