Arranging a naming ceremony

You can arrange a naming ceremony at a registration office or one of the other approved venues across Dumfries and Galloway.

Naming ceremonies have no legal status but are a formal, non-religious way to celebrate the birth of a child and welcome an adopted child or step child into a family. Each ceremony can be unique and involve special people in the child's life.

Registration offices

There are a number of registration offices across the region where you can organise a naming ceremony. Our registrars can check availability and make arrangements for your ceremony.

Authorised venues

Our registrars can also conduct naming ceremonies at authorised venues in Dumfries and Galloway. You should contact the venues to discuss availability and costs but you'll also need to contact a registration office to complete the required documents.

Call 030 33 33 3004 if you'd like to conduct a ceremony at a venue which isn't already authorised. The process can take at least 6 weeks.

Costs

The basic fee for a naming ceremony is £271. We charge an extra £130 for ceremonies held on a Saturday or an extra £196 for public holidays.

Other charges may also apply at certain registration offices, ask your registrar for further details. Approved venues will have additional costs for using their facilities.

Page last updated: 23/08/2023
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