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10. Celebrities: famous people with slightly unusual names are a common source of inspiration. There are lots of teenage “Kylie”s running around
UK since Kylie Minogue’s arrival on music scene at end of ‘80’s, and her recent resurgence, will have created a second wave of them. And I’m sure many little “Be’yonce”s have been popping up over last few years. The only problem is that names like these very soon begin to sound a little silly and “wannabe”.
11. Foreign Names: consider using a foreign version of a name, e.g., Pedro, instead of Peter. Or try using a name from a completely different culture.
12. Nicknames: try using a nickname e.g. Angie, instead of Angela or Angelina. However, make sure name is will pass “age test” – see number 17 below.
13. Middle Names: a great way to accommodate individuality when naming your baby, is to combine a common first name with a unique second/middle name. The benefit of this is that your child can avoid embarrassment throughout his/her life by ignoring it of keeping it hidden.
14. Initials: when you have settled on some names, check that initials aren’t embarrassing. This is an easy trap to fall into and can lead to a lifetime of misery. “Zina Indigo” are may be nice sounding names for your lovely daughter, but make sure your surname doesn’t begin with “T”!
15. First Name-Surname: check how selected first name combines with surname. Make sure two names do not create some something recognizable, to prevent a lifetime of teasing. Also, check rhythm of two names; a different number of syllables in each name usually flows much better. Avoid rhyming 2 names at all costs or your child will hate you forever!
16. The loudness test: try saying name softly, at normal pitch and shouting it very loudly. You may be surprised at results.
17. The age test: try to visualize your child with name as a baby, as a teenager, as a young adult, a mature adult and as a senior citizen. A name can create completely different perceptions of individual at separate stages of life.
18. The meaning: final test of name that you choose should be to check its meaning (if any). Don’t leave your child open to getting a nasty surprise later in life.
Whatever name you decide, don’t fall into trap of self-indulgence. Remember, it’s not about you, it’s all about your child. Your grand design to celebrate uniqueness of this new human being, may eventually lead to a lifelong, desperate desire for conformity and anonymity. Even Zowie Bowie eventually changed his name to “Joey”…
Michael Barrows is a web publisher specialising in niche marketing. Check out the wealth of baby resources and pick up the FREE ebook "Baby Tips for New Parents" at his website; http://www.all-about-baby-names.com
