How does it sound?

Consider how the name works with your surname. When the full name is read out loud, it should have a nice ring. Avoid names that rhyme with your surname, or produce a tongue twister. You may decide that, if you have a long surname, that a short first name is most appropriate, and vice versa.

You should also consider the transition between the end of one name and the start of a next. First names that end in the sound ‘ee’ may not be suited to surnames that begin with that same sound, for example, ‘Jamie Eaves’.

Strike a balance between popularity and obscurity

It’s a tough one. It would be easy to name your child James or Jessica, but they will likely be able to start an exclusive group at school of people with the same name. They may also be referred to as ‘Jessie C’ or something along those lines.

On the other hand, you don’t want to set your child up for years of abuse at the hands of cruel school kids. A name like ‘Xanthe’ may be envied, but your little ‘Rainbow’ may be in for a tough ride.

Consider your child’s initials

So you, Mrs. Marigold, have decided to name your new daughter Brianna Ursula. A pretty name? Maybe, but with the initials B.U.M, your child is being set up for unnecessary teasing. Other combination of first and last names exist that are also extremely undesirable - click here to check them out.

Don’t forget your heritage

Many parents decide to honour their ethnicity or cultural links by naming their child accordingly. Have roots in North Africa? You may wish to consider ‘Hakim’ for a boy. Did you meet your spouse at university in Russia? Maybe your new daughter will be ‘Nadia’.

Think about using a family name

It is common practise to perpetuate the memory of a loved one by using their name for your child. Be careful though – don’t let family ties dominate your choice of name. If you are unsure whether a family name would suit your new youngster, you could use it for a middle name.

Investigate the meaning

Some parents have a particular desire to give their baby a name, the meaning of which strikes a chord with them. This is particularly true with religious families for example, with ‘John’ meaning ‘God has given’. On the other hand, you may just wish to avoid a meaning which you particularly dislike. ‘Leah’ means ‘spiritless’ – a good name with which to brand a new life?