Naming & welcome ceremonies
77 independent celebrants create welcome ceremonies for the newest family member – festive, personal and secular.
What is a naming ceremony?
A naming ceremony – often called a welcome ceremony – officially welcomes a child into life and into the circle of their people, without any church affiliation. The celebration honours the child, their parents and the people who will accompany them. Whether with a water ritual, tree planting or your own symbols: the form is entirely free.
How the ceremony unfolds
In the preparation talk, the celebrant gets to know your family: how did the child get their name, what do you wish for them, who should play a special role? From this grows a ceremony of usually 30 to 45 minutes – with a speech, rituals and often contributions from godparents or grandparents. You celebrate wherever suits you: in the garden, in nature, at home or at a venue.
How to find the right person
What matters is a warm, uncomplicated tone – and someone who can handle children and lively gatherings. Filter by region and language and get in touch directly; most celebrants show examples of their ceremonies on their websites.
Frequently asked questions
A naming ceremony is not tied to any denomination or membership. It is a welcome ritual, not a sacrament – religious elements are possible but not required. The ceremony does not stand in the way of a later church baptism.
As a rough guide: usually between CHF 500 and 1,000, depending on preparation and travel. Enquiry and quote happen directly between you and the celebrant – no commission goes to rednerfinder.ch.
There are no rules. Many families still choose godparents – as chosen companions for the child – and give them an active role in the ceremony. It works just as well without.
Anywhere your family feels at home: in your garden, by a lake, in the forest, in your living room or at a restaurant. Independent celebrants come to the place you wish for.