Hi, I'm Philippa

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Naming  and welcoming ceremonies can be created for children of any age. Often they are combined with a first birthday party. I have created ceremonies to welcome adopted children, and “double” and “triple” celebrations for siblings.

Parents and guideparents usually make their promises to the child.

You can include readings or music by friends or family members and may involve older siblings. Think about who you can call on to contribute particular skills to provide a personal and memorable ceremony.

Consider symbolic actions such as lighting a candle, blowing bubbles or giving flowers or planting a shrub can be included.

Thank you so much for doing such an excellent job with S’s naming ceremony. Everyone thought it was wonderful and were really touched by the words that were spoken. Thanks again.

— Ann and Don

Thank you for the beautiful ceremony you performed – it was just what we wanted and we really appreciated the time and effort you put in to make it personal. Many of our guests commented on the ceremony and how lovely it was. We look forward to working with you again.

— James and Julie

Image of Philippa Howell

Philippa Howell

Where I work

I conduct humanist ceremonies in Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Bristol. I am happy to travel and have conducted humanist ceremonies in Herefordshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, North Somerset and Bath.

Fees from...

I conduct humanist ceremonies in Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Bristol. I am happy to travel and have conducted humanist ceremonies in Herefordshire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, North Somerset and Bath.

My fee for a naming/welcoming ceremony in Gloucestershire, Worcestershire or Bristol is £260 including travel. A deposit of £100 will book the day.

How to contact me
Email

philippahowell@yahoo.co.uk

Phone

07564 521516

Website

humanist.org.uk/philippahowell

HUMANIST CEREMONIES™ is the network of more than 550 celebrants, trained by national charity Humanists UK to a gold standard to provide memorable and meaningful humanist ceremonies to non-religious people. Operating throughout England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, we deliver authentic, tailor-made and heartfelt ceremonies for life’s key moments. They are always inclusive and welcoming, regardless of the beliefs of those attending.

You can trust Humanist Ceremonies celebrants: We are DBS-checked, fully insured, and regularly peer reviewed for quality assurance. We are committed to a code of conduct, and have a transparent and robust complaints process in the rare case of a problem. We all pay a monthly fee to Humanists UK to further support the work of the charity, and are part of a regional network for like-minded celebrants for support and learning.

Humanist naming ceremonies

A humanist naming ceremony is a joyous event, and the perfect opportunity to gather friends and family to welcome your child into the world, with no reference to religion. It focuses on the child, their future and the circle of love and support around them, offering a sincere and personal alternative to a christening or other religious ceremony.