What are some tips on picking a baby name?

Question

I am letting my husband have a big part in choosing the name of our baby (wont know what I am having until I have it); however, he is indecisive alot on which names he likes. He tells me he likes "Lucas" then tells me "Maybe not."

It's getting aggrivating because this is an IMPORTANT thing that needs to be decided on.

I need help, he needs help. Any tips on picking names?

Answer 1

I agree that you should both make lists and then narrow them down together. See which names you like today, will like tomorrow and still like next week. Try saying them out loud, with your last name. Pretend to introduce your child to someone and see how it feels to say: "Hi, this is my son ........."

General tips would be:

- different number of syllables for first and last name flows better

- try to avoid a name that yields mean nicknames

- check for meanings

- avoid names that run together (Cheryl Lily, for example)

- avoid rhymes

- look at the initials and see if they spell out something

- be wary of names that are too modern in a weird and wacky way, or too archaic. they will set your child up for teasing

- try not to choose 2 gender neutral names, this will only cause confusion

- at least try to avoid unsually weird spellings. this will only create problems for the kid, having to explain his name over and over

Answer 2

Get a baby name book and write down your favorites.  My husband and I did that, so we had a few names in mind with both of our kids, before they were born.  We decided once we saw them.  With our first child, we didn't know if he was a boy or a girl, so we had to wait to pick!  With our second, we had a name picked, then changed it when we saw him.  The one we originally picked just didn't suit him.  Just don't nag your husband about this.  Your child will have a name and the final decision might not come until after you give birth.  Don't sweat it.