What’s in a Name? 7 Tips for Choosing the Perfect One for Your Baby

Choosing a baby name sounds fun… until you’re 38 weeks pregnant, surrounded by lists, vetoes, and family opinions, and still no closer to agreeing on the one. Whether you’re into timeless classics or TikTok trends, picking a name is a mix of heart, history, and a little bit of luck.

Here are a few friendly tips to help you find that magical name — without losing your mind (or your marriage) in the process.

1. Say it out loud — a lot.

You’ll be saying this name approximately 1.2 million times in your lifetime, so it needs to flow. Try it with the surname, whisper it, yell it (“Get down from there!”), and see how it feels. If it makes you smile more than cringe, you’re on the right track.

2. Don’t rush the shortlist.

Start jotting names down early, even if they seem random. You’ll notice patterns over time — maybe you love nature-inspired names or ones that end in “a.” Sleep on them, and come back in a few weeks. Some will just… fall away naturally.

3. Consider meaning — but don’t overthink it.

Yes, names with beautiful meanings are lovely. But if you adore the sound of a name, don’t ditch it because it means “of the meadow” instead of “strong warrior.” The meaning your child will give it through their life is far more powerful.

4. Check the initials (you’ll thank us later).

It’s a small detail, but make sure the initials don’t spell something unfortunate. Little Ava Sophie Smith might not thank you for being “A.S.S.” at school.

5. Think future-proof.

Try picturing your baby as a grown-up — will the name still suit them at 30, in a boardroom or on a business card? If yes, that’s a great sign. (If no, maybe keep it as a cute middle name.)

6. Ignore the noise.

Everyone has opinions — your mum, your best friend, even the lady at the checkout. But this is your baby. Choose what feels right for your family, not what’s trending on Instagram or approved by the group chat.

7. Trust the spark.

There’s always that one name that gives you a little flutter when you hear it — even if you’re scared it’s too popular or too unusual. That instinct? It’s often spot-on. Go with the one that makes your heart feel full.

At the end of the day, remember this: no matter what name you pick, it’ll become their name — full of laughter, love, and a thousand stories you can’t even imagine yet. So breathe, trust yourself, and enjoy the naming adventure.