Baby naming ceremonies

Naming ceremonies are a non-religious alternative to baptisms for families celebrating the birth of a new baby.

If you wish to have a religious ceremony you should contact your local church or religious community.

A civil naming ceremony is a special way of celebrating your child's birth by welcoming your child into the family. You can also announce the names that you have chosen and declare your promise to be good parent. You may also want to choose other adults who are prepared to promise a special supportive relationship.

These ceremonies are also to celebrate or welcome adoptive children and step-children into a new, extended family or relationship.

Neither the naming ceremony nor any documents you receive are legal documents.

You must have registered your child's birth before booking your ceremony and you will need to produce the birth certificate when you book the ceremony.

Where are the ceremonies held

They are held at the Leeds Civic Hall, one of our licensed venues, or at a venue that holds current fire and safety regulations and public liability insurance. If you aren't sure whether a place is suitable or not, please contact us.

How to book

If you want to arrange a ceremony or you have any questions about naming ceremonies, please contact us.

You will have to pay a deposit when you book. The fees and charges will vary depending on the time, day and venue you choose for your ceremony.​​​​​​​

Information we may collect about you

The council has a statutory duty to register births, deaths, marriages and civil partnerships and to administer citizenship services on behalf of the Home Office. Your information will only be used to assist us with your registration appointment and/or ceremony or your copy certificate application. We will not share this information with anyone else unless we are required to do so by law. Please see our privacy policy for further information on how we process your personal data.                          

Contact us

Email

Phone

0113 222 4408
(Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, except Wednesdays when we're open from 10am)

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