Baby naming ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular, providing a celebration for parents to welcome, celebrate and pledge their commitment to their child before family and friends.

The Town hall provides a prestigious setting for a baby naming ceremony, offering beautiful rooms for welcoming guests to the ceremony.

The room settings provide a beautiful back drop for photographs.

Photo caption: Jenny with her baby Jamie- credit: Alan Ray Photography in Braintree

The ceremony
The ceremony is conducted by Essex County Council Registration staff and usually lasts between 15 to 30 minutes.  A naming ceremony is a unique occasion for everyone to feel involved and to offer their support in your child’s future development.  Parents are encouraged to choose family and friends to make promises of support.  The child, or children, if you prefer can be of any age.  A commemorative certificate is provided by the registration staff following the ceremony.

Prices
Monday to Saturday
                                      1 hour              2 hour
Council chamber       £100                £180
Panelled room            £50                  £90

Sunday rates are £50 per hour extra.

Please note
Naming ceremonies have no legal standing and must not be confused with birth registration, which must be done as a legal requirement.  A ceremony cannot be used to change a child’s name and there is no religious content.  The certificate issued at the ceremony cannot be used for identification purposes nor are the promises made legally binding on those who make them.