Deciding on a baby name feels like one of the most significant choices you’ll ever make. After all, this isn’t just a name for a tiny newborn—it’s a name that will follow them through childhood, job interviews, wedding vows, and every phase of their life. It’s the name they’ll write on forms, introduce themselves with, and maybe even shout across a playground someday.

No pressure, right?

The Weight of the Decision

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of choosing a name. You might want something timeless, but not boring. Unique, but not too out-there. Something that suits a squishy newborn, a curious toddler, an angsty teenager, and a grown adult. Add in the opinions of partners, family, and friends, and it’s no wonder many parents end up with lists as long as their baby registry.

How to Start

When you’re staring at baby name websites or flipping through books, it helps to narrow things down:

1. Think About What Matters to You – Do you want a name with personal or cultural significance? Maybe a family name, a favourite literary character, or a name that reflects your heritage feels right.

2. Consider the Sound – Say the name out loud. Does it roll off your tongue? Does it pair well with your last name? Test it with phrases like, “Hi, I’m ,” or, “, dinner’s ready!”

3. Picture the Future – Imagine your baby at different stages of life. Will this name suit them as a little one, a teenager, and an adult? Names like Teddy or Lulu are adorable for a baby, but will they work in the boardroom—or would a more formal version (Theodore, Lucy) be better?

4. Balance Popularity and Uniqueness – Check the popularity of the name if you’re worried about your child sharing it with five classmates. But don’t stress too much—if you love a name, its popularity shouldn’t necessarily deter you.

5. Go With Your Gut – Ultimately, the right name often just feels right. If it sparks joy or makes you smile, you’re on the right track.

The Reality: You Won’t Please Everyone

As soon as you start sharing potential names, you’ll discover that everyone has an opinion. Your mom might insist the name you love is “too trendy,” or your best friend might tell you it reminds her of a boy from high school who was awful.

Here’s the truth: no matter what name you choose, someone will have something to say about it. But this is your baby, and the only opinions that truly matter are yours (and maybe your partner’s).

Common Worries (And Why They Don’t Matter as Much as You Think)

• “What if they don’t like it?” Most of us grow into our names, even if we didn’t initially love them. Your child’s personality will make their name uniquely theirs.

• “Is it too unusual?” Unique names can be beautiful and memorable. Just be mindful of pronunciation and spelling—names that are too tricky might frustrate your child over time.

• “Is it too plain?” Classic names have stood the test of time for a reason. If you love it, it’s perfect.

• “What if it’s trendy and goes out of style?” Trends come and go, but the right name for your family will always feel special.

The Joy of Naming

Choosing a baby name isn’t just a decision—it’s a celebration of this new little person who’s about to change your life. It’s an opportunity to honor your history, share your hopes for their future, or simply pick something that makes you smile every time you say it.

When the name feels right, you’ll know. And years down the line, when your baby’s name is scribbled in crayon or printed on a graduation certificate, it’ll feel even more perfect.

A Reminder: It’s Just a Name

Yes, a name is important—but it’s only one part of who your child will be. Their personality, values, and character will define them far more than the name you choose.

So, take a deep breath, trust your instincts, and pick a name that feels right for your family. Whether it’s traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, your baby’s name will be special—because it’s theirs.