Baby naming ceremonies across Sydney & surrounds
A joyful, non-religious welcome for your child — written around your family, your values and your little one's story.
A baby naming ceremony is a beautiful way for family and friends to gather and celebrate your child. It creates a warm space to share why their name was chosen, welcome them into your circle of love, and invite special people to promise ongoing care and support.
It does not replace the need to register your baby's birth — and it is a lovely alternative to a traditional christening for families who want a personal, meaningful ceremony without religious formalities. I also create naming and welcome ceremonies for adoption and for adults marking a new chapter.
Browse other ceremony types, or get in touch for a relaxed chat in Balmain or via Zoom.
Your naming day, shaped with care
A planning manual, personal rituals, and a ceremony that feels like home
You'll receive my Naming Ceremony Planning manual, packed with ideas to help you build a memorable rite of passage. Together we shape the welcome, the story of your child's name, readings, wishes and any rituals you love — lighting a candle, offering a rose to grandparents or guardians, planting a tree, or something uniquely yours.
Older siblings, grandparents and close friends can take part as readers, mentors or guide parents. Naming certificates are often presented to your child and other special family members during the ceremony.
Most families celebrate at home or in a local park. Outdoor settings are lovely — just keep a covered backup nearby in case of rain. I'll keep everything warm, flexible and baby-friendly.
Why choose Janet for your naming ceremony
Gentle guidance, joyful storytelling, and a celebrant who keeps it calm for little ones
Naming days work best when the ceremony feels relaxed enough for babies, toddlers and guests of every age — while still feeling meaningful. That balance is something I care about deeply.
As an authorised Civil Marriage Celebrant based in Balmain, I create personalised naming ceremonies across Sydney and surrounds, respecting your beliefs and cultural traditions, and weaving in the people who matter most to your child.
Read what families and couples say in the testimonials, or start with a friendly chat via the contact page.
Ready to plan your baby's naming day? I'd love to hear about your little one, your preferred date and the kind of celebration that feels right for your family.
Baby naming FAQs
Questions & answers families often ask before we meet
- What is a baby naming ceremony?
- A joyful, non-religious celebration that welcomes your child into the world and into the circle of family and friends who will love and support them — a personal alternative to a traditional christening.
- Does a naming ceremony replace birth registration?
- No. You still need to register your baby's birth with Births, Deaths & Marriages. The naming ceremony is a celebration, not a legal registration.
- When is the best time to hold a naming ceremony?
- There is no fixed age or date. Many families celebrate in the first year; others wait until siblings, grandparents or special friends can gather. Choose a time that feels calm for your family.
- Can we include godparents, guide parents or special friends?
- Yes. Guide parents, godparents or mentors can make a promise of love and support. Siblings, grandparents and close friends can also share readings, wishes or simple rituals.
- Where can we hold a naming ceremony in Sydney?
- Home gardens, local parks, family venues and outdoor settings across Sydney and surrounds work beautifully. Tell me the feeling you want and we'll match the ceremony to the place.
- How long does a baby naming ceremony usually run?
- Most naming ceremonies run for around 15–25 minutes — long enough to feel meaningful, while staying comfortable for babies, toddlers and guests of all ages.
- Can we include cultural traditions or personal rituals?
- Absolutely. Cultural diversity is respected, and any supportive ritual — candles, flowers, tree planting or family blessings — can be woven into the ceremony.
- How do we start planning with you?
- Send a note via the contact page with your preferred date and a little about your family. We'll arrange a friendly chat in Balmain or on Zoom and shape the ceremony from there.
