What is a naming ceremony?

A naming ceremony is an opportunity to declare, before family and friends, your promise to be as good parent as you can, or to confirm a special relationship between adult relatives or friends and your child.

What does it consist of?

The ceremony is conducted by a celebrant, an experienced and knowledgeable professional who has been specifically trained in the running of such occasions.

You will usually meet the celebrant to discuss the arrangements and details of the ceremony.

In Waltham Forest, ceremonies may be held in the Forest Suite at the Register Office, at the other approved venues or alternative venues as discussed with the Superintendent

How do I arrange a naming ceremony?

You should first contact us to discuss the availability of a celebrant to conduct the ceremony and also a venue.

The birth certificate of any child to be included in the ceremony will have to be produced. If you would like to hold the ceremony in one of the approved venues, rather than in one of our ceremony rooms, you will also need to contact the venue to find out when it is available.

The length of the ceremony depends upon the options chosen and the number of readings, but as a guideline may be expected to last up to thirty minutes.

Any parent can arrange a naming ceremony, whether they are married or not. It is a non-religious ceremony, so it does not matter what beliefs you hold nor what ethnic or cultural background you are from.

The ceremony can be held at either the Register Office, an approved venue or at any other place, including your own home within the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

Naming ceremonies cost £250 regardless of the venue or time and day of the ceremony.

Please note that neither the naming ceremony, or the souvenir certificate issued have any legal status.

More information?

For further information contact the Register Office who will give your details to the Celebrant