Baby Name Genie's Mailbag
Can't find your message? Some mail not answered by the Baby Name Genie is submitted to our community of baby namers for answering.
Kim in AZ
Hello Genie! We are expecting our second son and we know you can help us find the perfect name. Our last name is Graves so a caveat would be to avoid silly acronyms like OMG or HOG, and teasable names like Oliver (all of our) Graves and Tobias (to buy us) Graves. We gravitate toward older names like Henry and Owen but might like a more contemporary middle name to bring it into this century. Thanks, Genie!
Baby Name Genie:
Since Doug, Justin, Phillip, and Mark are out of the question, name your son Michael Riley Graves to ward off the bullies and ne’er-do-wells.
Katherine in Unknown
Hi genie, I'm expecting a baby girl soon and her middle name will be Max or Maximum I really need a first name that is powerful and not ordinary I like older names but I want something with a modern twist. Thanks can't wait to see what your awesomeness will bring.
Baby Name Genie:
Naming a baby is no time for half measures, therefore you must give her the maximum. Though, not literally. It’s important to give her a name that is both powerful, but also feminine. Name her Parker Maxine for a unique take on an older name.
Bailey in Washington
I’m having my second child, first girl. Her big brothers name is Xavier Flores, middle name Andon - picked by you of course! (: the baby girl is half Mexican so I want to give her a beautiful, majestic name with a kind of Hispanic feel. I really wanted the middle name to be Grace. Any ideas ? Thank you :D
Baby Name Genie:
Another satisfied customer. So happy to hear that Xavier Andon worked out for you. For a beautiful name for a beautiful Latina, name your daughter Esmeralda Grace.
Bonnie in Canada
I am stuck. I am having a boy in 7 weeks and cannot decide on a name. My last name is Hess and I love the name Maxwell but put together with my last name, it sounds like coffee! What do you think of the name Maddox Hess (Max for short)? Does it flow? Honesty, please.
Baby Name Genie:
Maddox Hess has a robust aroma, but is a bit too bitter for my taste. Instead, go with Mitchell Hess for a name that’s good to the last drop.
Rose in Australia
I was wondering if it is a good idea to name my baby boy Valentine. I am quite fond of the name, but I am afraid of future teasing resulting from it. PLEASE HELP!!!
Baby Name Genie:
For the sake of your son and the future wedgies he will likely receive at school, do not name him Valentine. However, if your heart is full of love for this name, go with Valentino for a full name and then shorten it to Val in normal use. Your son will thank you.
Elizabeth in Georgia
I AM 9 MONTHS ALONG AND DONT HAVE A NAME!!!! I Like really strong/unique names, but everything I have come up with falls flat. My last name is O'hare. I really like Blaze as a middle name for a boy (per your suggestion) but I need a good first name to match it!
Baby Name Genie:
Whoa, Elizabeth. Nine months along. Well, that explains all the shouting. Blaze is a great middle name for your strong baby boy, pair it with Maximus for a unique name worth YELLING about.
Lucy in Texas
Baby # 3 coming next summer. Brothers are Connor and Maddox. I love that they have the same flow with double letters in the middle. I'd like to have one for either gender that flows the same. Help please :)
Baby Name Genie:
Need a twinned letter title that will dazzle? Feel free to borrow Brennan for Daddy’s buddy. For your little princess, choose Anna.
Whisper in Utah
My husband and I are having a hard time coming up with a name for our second child, the gender is still unknown. We are looking for something that's common but unusual. Something that fits between our names since his so common (James) and mine is not (Whisper).
Baby Name Genie:
Be very, very quiet… we’re hunting baby names. The name you’re looking for is Ashton Edward or Madeline Bree.
A. Evans in London
My husband and I are having a baby girl. His name starts with a D, and we would like her name to also. I want anything that will sound beautiful with the last name Evans. Mostly, I want a name that would sound famous. We both enjoy singing so we would love for her to become a singer. Any suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
“Please welcome to the stage, the lovely and talented Danielle Evans!” Yep. That works. Name her Danielle and she’ll be singing your praises.
Crystal in unknown
Hi there, ok here's the dilemma-I suck at making decisions!!! For a baby girl, my Hubby and I like Annalise and Annabella. I don’t know which one to choose. The one thing throwing me off annabella is all the Bella boom that’s been happening. We have a long last name, so needless to say, I have no clue about a middle name either. Did I mention I was indecisive???
Thanks. Sincerely, Desperate
Baby Name Genie:
For those who are terrible at making decisions, I like to provide them multiple choice. Please choose one of the three names for your child:
A. Annalise Brielle
B. Annalise Brielle
C. Annalise Brielle
A. Annalise Brielle
B. Annalise Brielle
C. Annalise Brielle
Arika in California
Dear Genie, my hubby and I are expecting our first boy. His family tradition is to use the fathers first name as the middle name for the baby. We need help with a first name! We want a unique, farm-boy sort of name to compliment the rather normal sounding ____ Christopher Frederick. Please help!
Baby Name Genie:
You'd like a farm-boy name? As you wish. He shall have the name Wesley Christopher Fredrick. It's not so inconceivable.
Samantha in Wisconsin
Hi genie! I really like the name Clara-belle for my daughter, but my 3 year old watches a show with a cow named clarabelle on it. Can I still use that name or will it just be weird?
Baby Name Genie:
It'll be weird. If you like Clara, you can use that, but leave the belles to the cows.
Elizabeth in Greenwich, CT
Dear Genie, I find your retorts to be incredibly witty as well as your name suggestions to be quite interesting. So here is my question: my husband and I have narrowed down our soon to be son's name to either Christian or Elijah. For a middle name he likes Alexander (our last name is DeWalt) however I am not convinced as it sounds too pompous to me. Any suggestions for middle names would be greatly appreciated!!
Baby Name Genie:
Pompous? No. If his name were Christian Alexander, First of His Name, Earl of His Stuffed Animals, King of Diaper Rash, Duke of the Crib, Protector and Keeper of the Realm then perhaps that would sound a bit pompous. But simply Christian Alexander is a wonderful name that he should be humbled to have.
Sofia in Calgary
I'm expecting my first son in 7 weeks...his last name is Aljanabi, and my two favorite names are Amir and Romeo... And I was thinking to combine both and make one his first and one his middle...please advise ;)
Baby Name Genie:
Amir Romeo Aljanabi is a princely name I happen to love. You have chosen wisely.
Sarah in Colorado
Baby boy #3 will be here in February. We like Robert as a middle name and Cayden as a first. However, Cayden is a little too popular as we prefer unique names instead of over used names. We also enjoy Welsh, Irish, Scottish, Gaelic, etc names. Brothers are Ronan Michael and Emmett James. Last name is Kelly. Any suggestions for baby boy's first name with Robert as the middle?
Baby Name Genie:
This name will serve your child Welsh should you choose to use it. Trust me, I’m giving it all she Scot. Name your son Caelen for a unique name from the Emerald Isle. Irish you the very best.
C. Castillo in Florida
My husband and I are expecting our first. We want the name to be strong, but give a slight nod to our Italian/Spanish backgrounds without ending up too "Jersey Shore." Our surname is Castillo, actually meaning "castle."
Baby Name Genie:
Well, I was going to suggest “The Situation”, but I’ll save that for someone else. For your strong baby boy, I offer you the name Dominic Castillo. May he aspire to be the lord of his castle.
Kristin in Idaho
Hi, I am going to be a 1st time Grandma to a baby girl due the end of January. My daughter loves the name Coraline. She is having a hard time finding a middle name. The baby's last name will be Hererra. My daughter is a little quirky, loves music, dancing. Any advice?
Baby Name Genie:
Your granddaughter certainly needs a quirky middle name that reflects her mother’s love of the arts. Name her Coraline Melody Hererra and let her forever be a song in your heart.
Darlene in Wisconsin
My husband and I are due to welcome a baby girl in the next few months. Even so, we have yet to pick out the perfect name. My husband's name is Roman, I would like something cute to go along with it that's unique.
Baby Name Genie:
Friends, Roman, countrymen, lend me your ears.
For I come to name your daughter, not to raise her.
The name that she shall have is fitting.
A name of Roman history and pride.
So let her be named Aurelia.
For I come to name your daughter, not to raise her.
The name that she shall have is fitting.
A name of Roman history and pride.
So let her be named Aurelia.
Nikole in Iowa
We want a unique name the goes along with Micah and Jodias. She is going to be a girl! Her middle name will be Saige or Payge. Last Name is Niebuhr.
Baby Name Genie:
She already is a girl. Her name is going to be Abigail Saige-or-Payge Niebuhr. Though I confess that is a strange middle name.
Taylor in Va
Dear Awesome Genie, I love the name Sapphire, nickname Saff, but for a boy. And Sapphire is kinda girlie. Do you think that it would be an acceptable name? Or maybe as a middle name? Or should I just trash it and find another name I like?
Baby Name Genie:
You are both correct and incorrect. First, you are correct that I am awesome. Second, you are incorrect that Sapphire is kinda girly. It is not. It is terribly girly. I am bound by the Baby Name Genie oath to dissuade you from using Sapphire for your baby boy. If you desire a precious gem name for your precious son, name him Jasper.
Judi in New Jesery
We are expecting our first daughter and are very excited. Me and my husband are techers(he is a college professer) and we want the name to sound smart. But we want a female name no unisex!
Baby Name Genie:
Oh boy. I certainly hope you are not grammar or spelling teachers. For a classic and smart sounding baby girl, I give you Evelyn Maude. But please, before you put pen to birth certificate, first learn to spell it.
Lily in UK
I adore the Welsh name Arianwen for if I have a girl, but I’m completely stuck on finding a middle name. It would need to be beautiful and feminine but fairly ‘normal’ since Arienwen is so unusual. I feel that otherwise it would be overkill and seem too extravagant. I don’t want something which is too overused though, although I think classic, timeless names are an exception.
Baby Name Genie:
Arianwen is a unique and polysyllabic name chosen from the Land of Song. The perfect middle name you seek is Grace; a timeless, though familiar name with merely one enchanted syllable.
Jasiah in Ohio
We want to name our new son "Lyric" and his last name is "Foster." His dad wants his initials to spell "LIF" or "LYF." Any suggestions for a middle name that starts with "I" or "Y"? Please help!
Baby Name Genie:
Want a middle name for your son Lyric, but don’t know the words?Don’t fret. I’ve know this little ditty, and I’ll give it to you for a song. Name your child Lyric Isaiah Foster. You won't go wrong.
Alexandra in London
Dear Genie, my husband and I are having trouble settling on a baby name for our baby girl on the way. I prefer old, more traditional names while he prefers modern, average everyday names. We finally settled on Rosalie Elizabeth but I'm thinking that too many people have that name or something similar. Is there any other name you can think of that we can both agree on instead of Rosalie?
Baby Name Genie:
If you have settled on a name that you both love, then don’t let fear of others change your mind. Rosalie Elizabeth is a beautiful name. If you have trouble with similarly named contemporaries, use Rose or Rosie as a nickname.
Allison in Oregon
Well I'm having a boy and I happen to like the name Hunter, but I'm not sure if it sounds good with our surname Spencer? Because both end with "er" do you have any advice?
Baby Name Genie:
Hunter Spencer would be a fine name for your boy. But if you wish for something less rhythmic, then look to the stars. You’ll find Orion Spencer to be the twinkle in your eye.
Melissa in Australia
I have always loved the first name Hudson but married a man with Hudson as a surname. Any tips?
Baby Name Genie:
Congratulations on acquiring a name from your husband that you like. Some spouses are not nearly so lucky. My advice to you is to love your surname and find a new love in first names.
Rachel in MA
My husband and I met at the premiere of the fourth Harry Potter movie and want to give our first child a name with a Harry Potter reference. We don't know what gender it is. Do you have any ideas for boy & girl names that reference Harry Potter, but not too obviously?
Baby Name Genie:
You wisely seek a magical name from the magical genie. If your muggle is a boy, I can think of no better name than Cedric. And for a girl, I have a soft spot for Ali, the flying carpet merchant. Both names can be found in The Goblet of Fire. Middle names I leave to you, once you know which is witch.
Alyssa in IN
I happen to love the middle name Quincy but can't seem to find the right first name for the lad. Ah what to do. Help me won't you?
Baby Name Genie:
You and John Adams finally have something in common. If you have the constitution, name your son Thomas Quincy.
M. Baume in Canada
I am due to give birth to my first baby very soon! My husband and I chose the perfect name for a baby girl, but we found out that we are having a boy. If we ever have a girl, her name would be Brooke Lynn Baume (Baume being the surname). We are thinking of Leo or Leonardo for our baby boy. Is there another name you can recommend that might complement Brook Lynn better?
Baby Name Genie:
I can give you several names that complement Brooke Lynn. Name your boy Man Hatten Baume. Harr Lemm Baume fits nicely as well. Also, I love New York.
Alene in South Africa
We have two boys Luke Edward & Mark Ryan. Our Surname is Candy. Now we are expecting a little girl. The boys have decided her name should be Emma Lili. What do you think? Any other suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
Emma Lili does fall sweetly from the tongue, though excessively so with your sugary surname. I’m certain Mark and Luke will find Emily Rose more to their taste.
Megan in WI
It's tradition in my husband's family that the first born son have a name that starts with "T" and the middle name Edward. I don't like traditional names like Timothy or Thomas, but I'm having a terrible time coming up with something I do like. Troy, Terry, and Trenton are the last 3 generations. Help!
Baby Name Genie:
A tiny bit of turmoil toward a terrific tradition of "T" names: Timely and tough, though not trite like Timothy or Thomas. Thankfully you've tested the true teller of titles. Give Tate Edward a try and tell me if it doesn't tickle your tongue.
Judith in WI
I really like the name Pickle. Can I have suggestions for a middle name? I am definitely naming my son Pickle, so only middle name suggestions please!
Baby Name Genie:
I herby warn you that naming your baby boy Pickle would not be kosher. But since you are against canning it, I reluctantly offer you the middle name Dillon.
Jill in Holland
I really REALLY like the name Arden Sophia for my daughter. But it seems me and my hubby are the only people that do. How do I convince my friends and family that we love this name and that it WILL suit our little girl? Many thanks in advance.
Baby Name Genie:
First acquire a spool of orange thread, four twisty ties, an empty soda can and two mints. Never mind. Actually, you and they are probably better off if you don't do anything to convince them. Simply name your baby girl what you desire.
Rachel in MA
What is a good name for a baby girl born around Christmas? That is unique. And cute.
Baby Name Genie:
The perfect name for your baby girl is Holly Renee. However, you will regret not wishing for a few silent nights once this child is born.
Allison, proud US Air Force wife in England:
My mom had friends growing up with names like Mary Jane, Rose Marie, etc. I'm looking for two part girl names like these but with a modern twist. Please help.
Baby Name Genie:
I give you two choices: Alexa Grace or Zoe Claire. Either of these two part girl names will fly, fight, and win.
Betsy in Alabama:
With two boys, John and Mark, we're now looking for a traditional girl name for the last name Allison.
Baby Name Genie:
A baby girl named Rachel should be the next addition to your family. Don't you agree?
Talia in Dayton:
My husband loves the name Kari, pronounced Kahr-ee, for a girl but I am afraid everyone will mispronounce her name as Carrie her whole life. I have had to correct people on my first name and hate it. He loves the name and I like it too. What should I do?
Baby Name Genie:
Pack your bags and move to Norway. Kahr-ee is a pretty name, but mispronunciations will be common no matter how you spell it--unless you live in Norway. Bon voyage!
Wade in Japan
My wife is Japanese and I'm American. I would like our daughter to
have an American first name and a Japanese middle name. What do you think? Is the Genie
familiar with Japanese names?
Baby Name Genie:
The lamp does make it difficult for me to get through airport security, but Abbygail Kioko is the way to go.
Amy in Australia
We have settled on Shelby as a first name for our baby girl and her
last name starts with M. We want her to have her father's initials, which are SSM. We are stuck
on a middle name starting with S.
Baby Name Genie:
Try Sofia, Sabrina, or Savannah on for size.
Heather in North Carolina
Mr. Genie in your shiny lamp please ~*PoOf*~ some magic for a
surname "Roe". I have two children, Olivia Grace and Matthew Cole, from a previous marriage
whose names quite nicely fit their cognomen. However, I remarried, this time to a Roe and
fishing for Roe in this boat is anything but merry, despite what other homophones imply.
Therefore, I need help finding first and middle names for a baby girl and boy that fit Roe but also
mix well with Cole and Olivia. The last thing I want are idioms, like Duksin A. Roe or Skid Roe on
my baby's birth certificate.
Baby Name Genie:
Don't fret--life will be a dream again if you name your baby Caroline Rebecca or Alexander Logan.
Elle in Illinois
I love the name Reese for a girl and would love to use my
grandmother's name as a middle name. Is Reese Bernice too funny sounding? If so, I will go
with Elizabeth which is my mother's middle name.
Baby Name Genie:
Unless she was a poet, I think your grandmother would give her blessing to name your baby girl Reese Elizabeth.
Stacy in Oregon
We named our first-born Falkner, which is a family name. The
OBGYN's comment, "He better grow up to be tough" sums up what many others think of our
choice. That being said, we love the name, and feel it suits Falkner perfectly. My question: What
to name the next boy??? Obviously a simple name won't suffice. Please help
Genie!!!!
Baby Name Genie:
Since the pen is mightier than the sword, choose another Nobel prize winning author: Beckett, Eliot, or Russell. You might consider another OBGYN as well.
Jessica in Location Withheld
I am having my first daughter and I'm stuck. I LOVE the name
Melody, and I'm sure her father would have been pleased with that name, but I don't know if
Melody Jamie goes well together. Please help.
Baby Name Genie:
For a divine cadence, Melody Jayne can't be beat.
Crystal in Pennsylvania
I have a girl and two boys and WIPED out all of my favorite
choices; number 4 (boy) is gonna be "No-Name" if we don't come up with something! Last name
is Russell and we want Jack. How irresponsible as parents would we be to name our child Jack
Russell? Would you bark at it?
Baby Name Genie:
Genies don't bark, but Sean Evan Russell will ensure your son is top dog on the playground.
Wally in Nevada
My sister said you act like a crackhead...you repeat the same thing
over and over.
Baby Name Genie:
Considering you sent this to me three times, I wonder what your sister says about you.
Susan in New Jersey
I'm having another boy and need a name we can all agree on. My
husband and I both want Ian Perry Costello, but my mother-in-law wants Marcello and Marc for
short. I can't let him go through life with a nursery-rhyme name like Marcello Costello. What can I
do to please her?
Baby Name Genie:
Nothing. Stick to your instincts: Ian Perry is sublime.
Rebeckahe in California
Hello, Genie. My name is Rebeckahe (pronounced Rebecca). This
is my second daughter; my first is Alannah Noelle. I want my second to match her name. What
should I name her? Thank you for the help.
Baby Name Genie:
Hello Rebeckahe (pronounced Rebecca). Nathalie Corinne compliments her sister's name nicely.
Sarah in Ohio
Hello. We have decided on the name Prince for our son! The
problem is that we can't think of a middle name that goes with Prince the way we like it. Please
help!
Baby Name Genie:
There is a reason Prince changed his name to a symbol. Henry William is a far more regal choice.
Jessica Czajkowski in Virginia
We are having a difficult time even knowing where to start with first
names for both boys and girls that go well with the last name Czajkowski. I'm thinking... the
shorter the better. Please help guide this quest!
Baby Name Genie:
Look no further than Eli or Anna
for your coming baby. Your child's teachers will thank you for choosing an easy to spell name.
Julie in Georgia
I like the names Ava and/or August for my little girl, but I'm unsure
of middle names for both of them. I want something uncommon and powerful. With the last
name Zimbelman, this has been such a hard task...Can you please give me some
ideas???
Baby Name Genie:
Ava Daphne or August Naomi are uniquely inspiring names for your baby girl.
Nancy in Location Withheld
Hello, Genie. Can you please, please help us quiet the never
ending suggestions from family and friends and give us the perfect middle name for Christian
Morello?
Baby Name Genie:
I can only grant you temporary relief from your dilemma. Christian Elliot Morello is the baby name that will stun your loved ones
into silence--until the inevitable sea of parenting suggestions rolls in.
Ray in Germany (Army)
Dear czar of baby names, guru of the naming convention, and the
one with the gift of labeling newborns I have a problem. Expecting my second daughter here
soon and I have decided to name her Kayla. I'm in desperate need of a middle name. Please
help!?
Baby Name Genie:
Dear one who is middle name challenged, in search of perfection and fraught with indecision, Kayla Jane is the baby name you await.
Jessica in CO
My husband and I have decided on the name Andi for a little girl.
We are having problems finding a middle name. I don't really care for the most commonly used
names. Thank you for your help.
Baby Name Genie:
I compliment your choice of the
name Andi--a superb name for a baby girl. You will find that the middle name Marlene completes
your selection.
Raini in LA
My husband and I have decided on the name Isaac for our second
son but we are having a hard time agreeing on a middle name. We would like something not
quite as biblical as Isaac. Any suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
Neither of you should have to sacrifice to agree on Trevor as the baby's middle name.
Rachel in WV
I love the names Elizabeth and Isabel. What's your opinion on
combining them? Elizabelle? Also, I was considering the middle name Rae.
Thanks.
Baby Name Genie:
Rae is a fine middle name.
Elizabelle needs to go though. Stick simply to Elizabeth. Elizabeth Rae makes a splendid name
for your baby girl.
Monica in MA
Me and my husband both like the name Gabrielle, but we have no
idea on middle names that would match? Any ideas?
Baby Name Genie:
Celeste or Simone compliment the name Gabrielle nicely.
Victoria in MA
Hi. I am expecting my son in August and I have a first and last
name but no middle name... Dante ??? Owens. I want something that sounds good looks good
and isn't really a first name. Any ideas? Me and my fiance are going crazy trying to figure out a
middle name.
Baby Name Genie:
Go with a location name or a last
name as the middle name. Here are three middle names to stop your baby name insanity: Cline,
Carlton, Montanna.
Sarah in TN
I want to name my baby Emma, but my husband wants to name
her Emily. Do you have any good names that start with Em?
Baby Name Genie:
Aside from popularity, I see
nothing wrong with the two baby names you have in hand. Since neither of you will back down
though, I suggest a truce. Agree to name your baby Amelia; then, go out for hot fudge sundaes to
celebrate resolution to your stalemate. Could you order one for me and bring it by the lamp while
you are at it?
Ginny in Canada
The boy name you suggested, Julian Gunner, totally blew me
away! My grandfather's name was Julian and my husband's grandfather was Gunnar! It's like it
was fate! I never thought of using either of these names for our baby nor did I think of using them
in combination. Thanks Genie!
Baby Name Genie:
Your recognition of my superior baby naming skills is appreciated.
Mandy in Iowa
I am pregnant and would like help. I would like to use the middle
name Dale if it is a boy and Violet if it is a girl... but these names are hard to match with a first
name. Help.
Baby Name Genie:
If the baby is a boy, name him Nicholas. If the baby is a girl, name her Allison.
Lacey in Kansas
Thank you so much, the first name you suggested is the perfect
name, and our baby boy matches the name too, his name is Chris Marshall West. Thanks again
and I hope you continue to do a good job as a Genie (I hope you get new furniture for your lamp
too. It must be tight in there!)
Baby Name Genie:
Congratulations! Glad to be of assistance. Finding new furniture hasn't been as big of a problem as finding a store that delivers to genie lamps.
ur mother in Location Withheld
well mr. [word removed] geni ur stupid who the [word removed]
would name there baby Orion
Baby Name Genie:
I sincerely hope you are not considering a career as an English teacher.
Melanie in Newcastle
I have to name my baby boy due in March. I hate every boy's name
in the whole world. Help me!
Baby Name Genie:
All boy baby names in whole world, eh? Go with the name Orion. It's officially heavenly.
Samantha in SC
I like the name Kaitlyn Grace but I want to hear from someone
else if its a nice name?
Baby Name Genie:
Trust your instinct.
Paul in Atlanta
We are having twins (boy and girl) and my wife likes the names
Olivia and Owen, but I don't like the double "O" names because it's too close to the rhyming
names. What do you think?
Baby Name Genie:
You are stressing out too much. It is not uncommon to give twins baby names with a connection. The names sound good together.
Jess in AU
I love the names Nora and Noah do you think it would be
confusing or silly for a brother and sister to have these names???
Baby Name Genie:
One question: Did you like it
when your mom mixed up your name with your siblings (or pet)? I am sorry, but its time to start
thinking of a different baby name combination even though they are both great names. If you
MUST use them though, consider making one a middle name (Patrick Noah).
Mina in TX
My husband likes the name Leonardo for our son-to-be. He even
keeps calling the baby "Leo". But I can't stand the name. I keep thinking of Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles, and my sisters all think of Leonardo DiCaprio. Any suggestions for a suitable
alternative?
Baby Name Genie:
Leander will get your mind off of
pizza eating turtles; plus, it eliminates the nickname Leo. He could go by Lee if your husband
likes the "lee" sound.
Mary in FL
My husband wants to name our son David. I don't really like this
name, but I won't mind having David as a middle name. Any ideas on a good first name to match
with David Rodriguez?
Baby Name Genie:
Nathaniel David will make an excellent name as both a baby and an adult.
Mary Ann in PA
My husband and I really like the ring of Cole Miller as a boy's name
but can't come up with a good middle name. I don't really want anything off the wall, but
something with a nice flow. Any ideas?
Baby Name Genie:
Cole Miller is an excellent choice for a name. You will find the middle name Zachary compliments it nicely.
Erica in KY
I have what I think is the perfect first name for my baby girl, but I
am stumped at the thought of a middle name. I wanted to use Faith, but the name is very similar
to my sister-in-law's baby born just two days ago. My baby's name will be Kyndra ___ Robbins
and her baby's name is Keira Faith--a little too close for me. I want a name that means
something "good." Maybe a Christian name...? Can you help? Thanks.
Baby Name Genie:
Either Kyndra Felicity Robbins or
Kyndra Verity Robbins are wonderful alternatives. Whether this constitutes "help" or not depends
on if you accept my advice.
Cami in OH
Hey Genie, my husband and I really want to name our son Wes,
but we're worried it's too close to 'wuss'? Is it? Any alternate name suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
Wes is not too close to "wuss" at
all. There are plenty of people in this world with the name Wes. It is a perfect name! Especially
for your baby. If you must have a different name though, you will find Spencer to be an excellent
alternative for your baby boy.
Kellie in VA
We've decided to name our son Grady but haven't been able to
come up with a middle name that sounds right. Any suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
I'll give you three middle names
for your baby boy: Nathaniel, Kelton, and Jerome. All of them have a nice ring when paired with
Grady. Congratulations on the coming baby!
Becky in MI
If I name my baby girl Kirsten, I am concerned people will
mispronounce it continually. I like "Keersten" not "Kersten" as the pronunciation. What do you
think?
Baby Name Genie:
I prefer the pronunciation
"Keersten." Friends and family will take their cue on how to pronounce her name from you. As for
strangers, its not that big of a deal if they say her name slightly incorrectly. The upside to the
name is that it could help her identify telemarketers more quickly (if they are still around in the
year 2030).
Jami in KS
I think you should respond to more letters. I'm sure you get tons of
questions, but pregnant ladies are often moody and unreasonable and can be down right frantic
in their search of the perfect name. We need all the help we can get...and you're so great at your
job...help out more! Now, what is a good middle name for a baby girl named Riley? My husband
likes Bay (or Bae) but I'm pretty sure that's an animal noise. Thank you. (Please don't make me
"eat a big piece of chocolate cake")
Baby Name Genie:
Do you even like chocolate cake?
As long as your last name is not Townsend, Amanda will make a superb middle name for your
baby girl. If your husband is stuck on the "ay" sound though, please use Rae instead of Bay,
you'll be glad you did (By the way, on the animal sound thing on "Bay" is pretty obscure--unless
you are confusing it with "bray").
Lori in MN
My husband and I are having a baby boy in Sept. and we are using
the name Ethan for his first name and I wanted to use Lyle for his middle name after my
grandpa. Our last name starts with a "K" so his initials will be ELK. Is this too
weird?
Baby Name Genie:
Too weird would be PIG, GUT, or
GAS. With your baby being a boy, when he gets old enough to care, he is more likely to think ELK
is a cool set of initials.
Michelle in Florida
I'm adopting a baby that I've been fostering. She is two months old
and has the same name as my dog, "Chloe" (a name I love). Every time I say her name the dog
comes running. I'm afraid at some point the baby might get hurt. The dog won't understand a
name change and I'm not getting rid of her, so I'll be changing the baby's name. Her middle
name will be "de Hart". Any suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
I have little sympathy for you
since you broke the #1 rule in pet naming: "Never name your pet a name you want to name a
future child." Nonetheless, I think you will find the name Nicole to be a suitable alternative.
Renee in Sydney, Australia
I have searched my baby name book of 750,000 names and
cannot seem to find a middle name for Chanel. I just want a nice middle name that sounds like
it's meant to go with Chanel. Thanks.
Baby Name Genie:
You must have skipped over the
name Monroe -- Chanel Monroe. Sleep on it.
Ashley in IL
We are about to have a baby boy and decided on the name Sean
but we have no idea about the middle name. We were thinking about Michael but would want
something more original. Any ideas?
Baby Name Genie:
I assume when you say "original"
you are not referring to supposedly "creative" spelling variations, gender neutralizations, or
name mashups. Wesley goes nicely as a middle name... and its not overused--yet.
Rhianna in USA
Is the name Haven Skylar Barclay a beautiful name?
Baby Name Genie:
Somehow, it seems, there is
always someone somewhere who thinks something is beautiful. In this instance, I am not that
someone.
Jessica in California
My husband and I chose the name Gabriel for our little boy, but
that is the end of agreement. He wishes for our sons full name to be: Gabriel Knight Booth. He
feels it is a strong name. I hear the name Knight and I remember Jordan Knight from New Kids
on the Block.... needless to say, I can't handle that. Can you please help me find a middle name
that my husband and I agree on?
Baby Name Genie:
Here is a name your husband
will agree has the right stuff: Gabriel Klayton Booth.
Kendra in Missouri
My baby boy is supposed to be born in seven days and the name
is still undecided! I am so stressed! We like the name Matthew, but I also like the name Trey. I
wanted the middle name to be James though. Could I use the name Matthew Trey James Lewis.
Or is that too much? I don't want him to have a hard time in life because of the two middle
names.
Baby Name Genie:
Could you? Yes. Should you? No.
But only because Trey James does not flow well. People don't have a hard time in life because
of two middle names, its much more complicated than that. But even if it did make life hard, you
can rest in the thought that adversity breeds character (Don't even think that gives you
permission to name him Matthew Sue!).
Shari in Alabama
Can you please help me find a middle name for my first child/son
Ian? My baby is due in May. I relied on my husband to find a perfect middle name. No luck so far.
We both have a very active, creative, and unique lifestyle. If you would incorporate that in the
name. It will sure help the headache that me and my husband have.
Baby Name Genie:
Try Tylenol for the headache and
Koda for the middle name.
Ummmm...no in Location Withheld
WHY DON'T YOU EVER USE THE NAME RONNA??? It's the
tightest name evah. And I think that you don't have what it takes to be a Baby Name Genie. Why
don't you just go and hide in your "lamp", cuz that's one thing you're good at! Love
ya!
Baby Name Genie:
Ronna is a fine name. You have
my permission to use it. On the lamp issue... have you ever tried living in one? If you could get
some decent furniture it wouldn't be so bad; but, doll house chairs really aren't that
comfortable.
Brandy in Idaho
Our baby boy is going to be born in 6 days. I have come up with
many names, but my husband does not like ANY of them!! He has come up with one, but I'm not
crazy about it. Please help! We want the middle name to be Michael. Any
suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
Yes. One. Avery.
Heather in MO
My boyfriend and I are having a baby and we found out it is a boy. I
asked him about a name and he is set on naming our baby Jesus. He said I could pick the
middle name. I really don't like the name Jesus and neither does my family nor his because they
are all religious. So, this is a big issue and I don't know what to do. What do you think of that
name?
Baby Name Genie:
In the U.S. you and your baby boy
will certainly face many interesting looks if you name him Jesus (unless you pronounce it:
Jesús). But in Latin America it would be no big deal. Jesús is a rather common name there.
Assuming you have already sought to understand why your boyfriend is so attached to the name
and that you have also expressed your concerns about the name, here are two ideas to get out of
the pickle you are in: 1. Pick the middle name Peyton and call him J.P. (or just call him by his
middle name) 2. See if you can get some traction with the name Joshua--it is closely related to
the name Jesus.
Tally in CA
I need a middle name for Chayton. He is going to be my new little
brother and I get to name him but I can't find a middle name to match. Please find me a name
that means something strong and has a Native American twist to it. Thanks.
Baby Name Genie:
Since you have the honor of
doing the naming I won't give you anything conclusive. Here is an idea though: Nahuel. It means
"jaguar"-- a solid, strong image. Beware though. It may inspire him to practice sneaking up on
you and startling the living daylights out of you for fun on a regular basis. Then again, little
brothers like to do things like that regardless of name!
Sammy in NY
(Message 2 of 2) Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! She loved the
name and it is our daughter's name. She is 7 lbs. 8oz. and 21 inches tall. She will forever know
the Genie saved her name. Thanks again.
Sammy
NY
Baby Name Genie:
Congratulations! I am sure she is as beautiful as her name. Glad to be of assistance. Enjoy your new bundle!
Dana in TX
I need a middle name for Tori. Something really catchy, but not too
"cutsie". My husband really likes the name, but I don't "LOVE" it. I am looking for a middle name
that will send it into that "LOVE" category.
Baby Name Genie:
I recommend these three catchy,
but not cutsie, baby girl names: Tori Beth, Tori Lynn, or Tori Raquel. You decide.
Sammy in NY
(Message 1 of 2) My daughter will be born in less then four days!
My wife is really set on the name Velveta--seriously. She said that if I could come up with a very
girly cute name she would drop Velveta Rose Alen. Any suggestions? She thinks double middle
names are cute. Help. Help. Help.
Baby Name Genie:
I believe you will find the name
Valerie Kathryn Rose Allen to be less "cheesy" and a perfect fit for your coming baby girl.
Sara in CA
(Message 2 of 2) Why don't you get a new job because you
obviously don't like it very much. People write to you because they think that you are going to
send them some real advice, but instead you are just a flat out jerk! I asked for some simple
advice to compromise with my husband on a name for our new daughter. Instead you suggested
that we have marital issues because of a lack of communication. Talk about taking your job out
of context. If that is what you think advice is, then you must not be thinking very hard. Why don't
you become a shrink, then you can give people marital advice and it won't be uncalled
for.
Baby Name Genie:
I am sorry. It looks like I
misunderstood the question part of your previous message. See if you can both agree to letting
your baby girl decide the name for you. If she comes in June, name her June. If she comes in
July name her Julie. If she come REALLY early then Mae -- no scheduled inducing allowed
(unless of course you must, but then don't go with my suggestion).
P.S. I can't help that I am a baby name genie. I just am one. There is not somebody to turn my
resignation into. That would be like trying to resign from being a human.
Sara in CA
(Message 1 of 2) Hi Genie, I am going to have a little girl at the end
of June and I really want her to have a beautiful, girly name. Only problem is, my husband is very
picky and doesn't like any of the names I do. How do I get him to stop being soooooo
unbelievably ridiculous about naming our daughter?
Baby Name Genie:
You will not like what I have to
say to your very "I" centered note. So stop reading. No really--stop. Beware the crazy cycle!
Priscella in SC
We can't agree on a boy's name. I don't like Micah (that's what you
picked). If it's a girl, we're going with Skylar Faye Rowe. The middle name needs to be Kinsland if
it's a boy, because he wants to keep that name in the family. We just can't agree on a first name.
Any suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
I've already given you a fabulous
baby boy name that you refused. Do you really want a second?
Jeff in FL
My wife and I unwittingly named both our first two children after
presidents (Jackson/Kennedy). We like the trend, so now that my wife is pregnant again (Yah!)
we like Grant for a boy, but cannot figure out a middle name. Please help!
Baby Name Genie:
Grant Owen or Grant McKinley
but not Grant Ryder. I'll keep an eye out for the 2056 ticket to see what you decided.
Melissa in MA
I need your HELP! I cannot find a middle name for Mia. I have
looked on every website and through tons of books. I'll take any suggestions! Something
feminine...not a big fan of the bi-gender names. Thanks!
Baby Name Genie:
Mia May flows and is fun to say--
which is great until you need to whip out her middle name to stop her cold in her tracks. In the
rare case that you would need to do that (since your baby girl will be an absolute angel) I
recommend Mia Danae.
Jess in Alabama
My friend and I are both pregnant and we both love the name Ava.
We both had the name picked before we knew the other one liked it. She wants to use it and I
want to use it, what should I do?
Baby Name Genie:
If its a boy, don't use the name. If
its a girl tell her you are planning on using the name but that you will spell it backwards.
Rachel in MA
I just had a baby and I don't know what to name her because
everybody is calling her different names. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!
Baby Name Genie:
Excuse me? She is your baby.
Name her what YOU want. Tell everyone to clear out so you can have time alone with your
daughter. Then take every little detail of her in and enjoy the life you brought into the world. A
name will come. Once you pick it do NOT back down. Congratulations!
Cara in TX
I am SO sick of the bi-gender name trend! You can't tell anymore
whether a child is a boy or a girl based on their name. I can't find a decent name for a boy
because the people who insist on using male names for girls are making almost every male
name seem feminine! I need a real strong male name! I don't want people wondering the
gender of my child when they hear his name.
Baby Name Genie:
Don't despair. A few boy names
remain unblemished. Last I checked I know no girls named Peter, Kenneth, or Clint. For an extra
strong boy baby name, go with Sampson.
Terri in Iowa
I like the name Cooper Ray but my husband likes Samuel Ray.
So, I thought of combining. Does Samuel Cooper work together in your opinion?
Baby Name Genie:
Your effort to reach a
compromise is admirable. Yes, Samuel Cooper will do just fine. It works quite nicely as both a
baby name and an adult name. Good work.
Bobbie in Location Withheld
I would like to name my new Baby Girl a name that starts with the
letter "B". This is my second child and my other daughter's name starts with "B". Any
suggestions?
Baby Name Genie:
Yes. One suggestion. Pick a
name that starts with "R".
Kelsea in Idaho
I am still in high school and for an assignment in one of my
classes I have to carry around a 10 lb. sack of flour and pretend that it is a baby. I am really into
this assignment so I want a good name for it. I was thinking of Lukas William. What do you
think?
Baby Name Genie:
Introducing your "baby" with a
name to inquiring strangers is much better than, "This is sack of flour that I am pretending is a
baby." Since, you do not have to worry about the psychological ramifications of the name and
have no husband to nix your first and middle baby name ideas, name it whatever you want. Now
is your chance.
Esther in Texas
Hi Genie. I'm going to have a baby boy in June and I'm still not too
sure about his name. My husband wants to name him Rufino Andres Rocha. I am not too sure
about the middle name. It is hard to find a hispanic name that starts with the letter "a." I need
help. What do you suggest?
Baby Name Genie:
There are worse names than
Andres. But since you must have an alternate, Antonio is an excellent middle name for the
combination you are considering.
Ariel in FL
My inlaws hate the name my husband and I have
chosen...help!
Baby Name Genie:
Do not flinch.
Nancy in Irvine
Who do I love?
Baby Name Genie:
Hmmm... a person with a belly button, a nose, hair and... What do you think I am? A love genie! Sorry Charlie..err..Nancy. I stick with baby names.
Julia in TX
Thank you for suggesting the middle name Carter to go along with
Morgan. It's perfect!
Baby Name Genie:
You are most welcome. Glad you recognized it as a winning first and middle name combination. Best wishes to you and your growing family.
Danielle in OR
Our last name is Woods and I wished for a girl. You said Danielle
Woods. That is where it throws me off. The thing is, my name is Danielle, and I want my baby to
have her own name and not mine. Plus, every single name you suggested, I don't like. I'm not a
person who always complains, but this time I am.
Baby Name Genie:
You should have been honored to know your good name was worth passing onto your child.
Misty in MO
I am wanting to name my lil girl James, I'm not sure of a middle
name but many people have said there is no way James is a girl's name. Do you think I am crazy
for wanting a lil girl with the name James? My husband's family has masculine names for the
girls such as Frankie, Billie, Cody.
Baby Name Genie:
I don't think you are crazy (as in mentally ill)... just different. VERY different. If a boy can be named "Sue," then I suppose a girl can
be named "James." "Frankie" though? Yikes! It looks like you married into the right family.
Ashley in NY
I love you, your my hero.
Baby Name Genie:
Thanks, but I would recommend that you revisit your definition of hero.
Kelly in NC
I want to call the baby boy I'm having Mack--but I don't want to use
it as a first name! I need a first name to go with my middle name!! Please help!
Thanks!
Baby Name Genie:
Alas, Mack is a hard middle
name to introduce, but since you insist--Andrew or Warren is fitting. Do keep the boy's diet in
check lest he becomes known as the Golden Arches signature sandwich.
Lennae in St. Louis
Will my baby boy get made fun of if his name is Dominique
Reilly?
Baby Name Genie:
Yes.
Kasie in
What do you think about Shelby Kate Moore?
Baby Name Genie:
Original, but it would be a "skam"
to say it wasn't problematic. I "shall be more" excited if you were to switch to Chelsy Kate.
Alison in California
What do you think of the initials GJB? I don't like them but my
husband thinks I'm being too picky.
Baby Name Genie:
After some contemplation, I've
decided to give neither you nor your husband the foolish pleasure of saying to the other, "Ha!
See, I was right."
Kelly in Charlotte, NC
Which sounds best to you: Evan Scott Brown, Asher Scott Brown,
Cillian Scott Brown, Roman Scott Brown, or Sebastian Scott Brown? I cannot decide for the life of me!
Baby Name Genie:
If you are willing to change your
last name, then Roman is the clear choice. Your husband won't agree to this--therefore, go with
Evan Scott Brown. Strong. Short. Flowing. Plus, you will rest better at night knowing he won't face
a constant barrage of teasing about his numerals in math class.
Deborah in St. Louis
My husband was on the fence about the name Sawyer, but after
we got the "sign" that it was good from the Baby Name Genie he was convinced! Thanks for your help!
Baby Name Genie:
I'm surprised he didn't see Sawyer sooner. Glad he is off the fence now. Hope it didn't tear a hole in his pants.
Carla in Kentucky
First name is Caroline. Can you make any suggestions for a middle name? Thanks!
Baby Name Genie:
Do you want ANY suggestions or GOOD suggestions?
Natalie in Idaho
We really like the name Brooke for our baby girl, but all we've
found for a middle name is Lynne... we don't like it! Help genie!
Baby Name Genie:
If its good enough for a city--why not your baby?
Paige in California
You suggested the name Seth River and I fell in love with it. My
son will be named Seth River now. Not only is it a very handsome name, but it has a personal
meaning to me. Thanks!
Baby Name Genie:
You are most welcome! As long as your last name isn't Banks, I stand by that first and middle name combination.
Alexys in Canada
Hello, I just wanted to thank you for the name. My due date is
December 4th 2005 and I have been looking for names everywhere, and I found "the perfect
name" thanks to you. My son's name will be Bradley James Harrelson.
Baby Name Genie:
Indeed! Bradley is a fine name. I am glad you agree. I am sure your son will grow up to be an oustanding citizen. Keep practicing your breathing.
Michelle in Peoria, IL
You freaked me out! The first name you suggested, Alexandra, is on the top of our list. How did you know?
Baby Name Genie:
My apologies on the freaking. A
clarification--Alexandra was not a name suggestion, it is the fulfillment of your wish for the perfect
baby name. That it was on the top of your list of names is either coincidence or evidence of your
superior intelligence. You decide.
Amy in California
You're SO FUNNY!
Baby Name Genie:
Thanks (I think).
M. Williams in Wisconsin
Thank you for the perfect baby name! Could you please give me advice on how to help my wife "see the light" about the name?
Baby Name Genie:
Have you tried hypnosis?
Perplexed in Location Withheld
I wished--I dunno how many times--and not once did I see the name "Jim Bob". What gives?!?
Baby Name Genie:
There is a good reason for that. I do like "Robert" and "James". "Bob" is short for "Robert" you know.
Amanda in Texas
I am worried that if I name my baby boy Lazarus as you
suggested, he will be picked on in school.
Baby Name Genie:
Your baby boy will be picked on in school.
