A naming ceremony is a non-religious alternative to a Christening and welcomes a new child into the family.
Children of any age can have a naming ceremony and any parent or guardian of the child can arrange it.
What a naming ceremony is
It’s an event where your child's name is confirmed and you promise them your commitment. Friends and family can take part in the ceremony and pledge to support you and your child. You could have readings and music as part of the ceremony too.
A ceremony can’t be used to change a child's name and the certificate you get at the ceremony can't be used as identification.
Where to have a naming ceremony
They can be held at a register office, an approved licensed venue or a village hall. An experienced celebrant from our registration service will run the ceremony.
How much a naming ceremony costs
Fees from 1 April 2023 – 31 March 2024
Civil naming ceremonies at a Hertfordshire register office
| Day | Cost (net) | VAT | Total Cost |
|---|
|
Monday – Friday
|
£325
|
£65
|
£390
|
|
Monday-Friday (for ceremonies at 16.30)
|
£507.50
|
£101.50
|
£609
|
|
Saturday
|
£507.50
|
£101.50
|
£609
|
|
Sunday and Bank Holidays
|
£558.33
|
£111.67
|
£670
|
Civil Naming ceremonies at an approved venue
| Day | Cost (net) | VAT | Total cost |
|---|
|
Monday – Friday
|
£408.33
|
£81.67
|
£490
|
|
Saturday
|
£590.83
|
£118.17
|
£709
|
|
Sunday and Bank Holidays
|
£640.83
|
£128.17
|
£769
|