Tips for Naming a New Baby Girl

Finding the perfect name for a new baby girl should be a fun decision but can often be challenging. Friends and family members all have suggestions but it is ultimately the parent’s decision to make. Here are some tips to help you come up with perfect moniker to fit your new bundle of joy!

Popular
There are many reports that include the most popular baby girl names ranked in order and by birth year. You may want to consult these lists if you are interested in popular names. For 2008, the top three were Emma, Sophia and Madison. Of course, if you are hoping to avoid naming your baby girl the same name as many others have, you may want to consult these lists to rule these names out.

Family
More common for boys than for girls, family names are easy picks. Baby girl names are not usually followed by Jr. and III but that doesn’t mean a family member would not be honored if you chose to carry on their name. Consider also family names from the past that may not have been used recently.

Newsworthy
Female names currently in the news or popular celebrity names can be inspirational. You should consider the perception these names bring to mind though. It is unfortunately not uncommon for once popular celebrity’s to make bad judgments, damaging the connotation their names inspire!

Meanings
A fun way to pick a name is to find one with an interesting meaning. Of course, your baby has yet to exhibit a personality trait so be careful if using a name trait that has meaning for you but may not suit the child as she grows up. And, do your research as a meaning in one language may be totally different and perhaps not as pleasing in another!

Fitting
Pick a name that is a good fit with the new baby’s last name. Often shorter first names go best with multi-syllable last names and vice versa. Remember the middle name too and consider the initials when all three are put together. Imagine how it will look printed on your baby announcements. Keep in mind also how the name will fit the child as she grows. A cutesy baby name may not be a good fit when she is much older.

Melodic
Especially for girls, consider names used in songs. The fluid girl’s names often used in songs can be lovely and unique. You might also consider taking a name you like but rhyming it to come up with a unique version of your own.

A name is a very precious thing that will last a lifetime and deserves much thought. Before you send out your new baby girl birth announcements, ask your friends and family for advice or their opinion. You make the ultimate decision but often others will have a viewpoint you may not have considered. As your little girl grows, she will come to fit her name beautifully. Make sure it is one she will enjoy answering to! The name on her birth announcements will be cherished even after she marries and takes on another.