Baby Name Experts Reveal What to Choose and Avoid, According to Top Consultants
Experts share insights on baby name trends, avoiding bullying, and cultural influences in naming choices.
POLICY Wire — New York, United States — Parents often face intense pressure when choosing a name for their child, with many seeking guidance from naming consultants. Holly Baxter spoke with industry professionals to uncover the latest trends and concerns around baby names.
One consultant, Colleen Slagen, notes that many clients come in with anxiety over how others might react to their chosen name. She advises parents to name the child for themselves, not for external expectations. This is your child to name, she says. “They had their chance.”
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Slagen also warns against timestamped names that may become associated with a specific era. For example, Caden has become so popular that it now feels tied to the 2010s. Meanwhile, Pamela Redmond, founder of Nameberry, highlights the growing trend of parents using names with ethnic or cultural significance, though some choose names that are more symbolic than meaningful.
Redmond also points out that naming styles vary by region, with red states favoring gender-neutral and less traditional names, while blue states lean toward more ethnic and traditional choices. The impact of a name extends beyond personal preference, as research shows that names can influence hiring decisions and social perceptions.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
