With that caveat in place, what are some things to consider when looking for the perfect name?

“Firstly, each family will have its own criteria and ‘perfect’ name – there is no one size fits all. And it is important to remember that because a name high on my list may not even make it to your list,” notes Casey. “Every name tells a story, a very personal one, and so each family will have their own considerations. From the meaning and personal connection to a name (does it need to honour a loved one?) to sound and flow – because a name might sound great on its own but, when paired with a surname, it may feel off.”

Strum agrees, stressing that sibling names should also be brought into consideration. “I also love linking sibling names through meaning so have a look at what your own names mean and any siblings. I work with a lot of first-time parents, but even more who are on their second or third baby. That’s when they really get stuck, and it’s a fun place to explore.”

Casey adds that it’s also worth future-proofing a name. “Will it grow with them from baby, to toddler, to teen and into adult life? Are there any name associations – good or bad? Any spelling or pronunciation challenges? Some parents are happy to embrace the unique options while others find this too challenging and prefer the traditional spellings to keep it easier at school and beyond.

“Ultimately, even with all the criteria a parent might have, I try to encourage parents to choose a name that feels right, trusting in their intuition and following their heart to avoid the second-guessing and overthinking of a name.”

The big baby name trends of 2025

Nomad names

Strum says that “names inspired by travel and the outdoors” are going to be big in the year ahead.

“There’s a huge return to rewilding childhood in the digital age, and with more and more people working as digital nomads, names inspired by the outdoors are booming.”

Casey agrees, noting that “these names are also getting a little edgier and on the nose”, citing names such as Sky, Willow, River, Bodhi, Ocean, Cove and Coast.

Sun and moon rising

“Celestial names are also booming as we look to the skies for inspiration,” says Strum.

Names include the likes of Astra, Luna, Nova, Leo and Sol.

Vintage twists

Casey says she is “still leaning into [her] vintage name era, but adding a slight twist using a nickname-style name that honours a loved one with a unique edge”.

“For example, Millicent but choosing Millie; Walter but going with the strong one-syllable Walt; Oliver but going with Ollie as the given name; or Dorothy but choosing Dottie or Dot,” she explains, offering up a few other examples in the form of Theodore/Teddy, Albert/Alby, Arthur/Artie, Beatrice/Bea, Margaret/Maggie, Harriet/Hattie.

“Parents are creative and are open to changing up a name to suit their family, and I love that we can honour a family member in so many ways.”

Playful names

Casey says names like Sunny, Pippa, Ivy, Minnie, Lottie, Halle and Gigi will be loved for girls, alongside strong gender-neutral names like Noah, Lennox, Blake, Miller and Remy.

Colours and flowers, too, will be big for girls’ names. “Indigo, Sage, Lavender, Flora, Primrose, Daisy and Violet continue to be loved,” she says.

For the boys, think more “strong, stylish and classic like Arlo, Oscar, Hugo, James, August, Asher, Finley, Henry, Theodore, Leo and George”.

Of course, everyone’s baby-naming journey will be very different. This author, for example, has two daughters named after fictional teenage witches (or old movies, depending on who you ask), but the important thing is to choose the one that feels right for you and your family. And, above all else, have fun with it.

“There is a special kind of magic in baby naming, something so universally appealing about it that links deeply to storytelling, culture and creative expression – the limitless canvas of names makes it so fun,” says Casey.

“Naming discussions and communities like mine are such a beautiful way to connect, bond and share in the excitement of new life… what’s not to love about dreaming up baby names?”

Why are millennial and Gen Z parents so obsessed with finding a unique baby name?