During pregnancy, most expectant parents ask themselves an essential question: « what should we name our child? ». A decision that, between us, isn’t the easiest to make! Whether you're looking for a girl's name or a boy's name, we’ve compiled 9 tips to help you make the right choice.

While some parents easily agree on a name after a shared burst of inspiration, for others it can turn into a real headache! At LILLYDOO, we wanted to give you a helping hand. With our LILLYDOO app, available on and , you can now explore more than 13,000 names from all origins. Based on the Swipe, Like, Match principle, it helps you and your partner find names you both like. Combined with the 9 tips below, you’re very likely to quickly find the name that steals your heart!

1. Take your time and don't make a decision lightly

The number one rule when choosing a name for your child: take your time—no rushing! Choose a name you’re proud of and confident you’ll still love in 20 years. After all, in theory, your child will carry it for their entire life! By choosing a name, you give your child their own identity, which deserves careful consideration! ;)

2. Choose the appropriate number of first names

Do you remember that heroine from Sweden: Fifi Brindacier? Did you know that her full name was: Fifilolotte Victuaille Cataplasme Tampon Fille d'Efraïm Brindacier? Would a name this long be approved by the French civil registry? The answer is yes! In France, there are no restrictions on the number of given names a child can have. However, a very long list of names may go against the child's best interests. Keep in mind that with each renewal of identity documents, during exams, or at official ceremonies, your child will need to write them down in full. Generally, a second, or even third, given name is added to avoid confusion between homonyms. It is also a good way to pay tribute to loved ones: family or friends. Whatever your reasons, if you have already chosen a second name, you can add it to our application. It will suggest names that pair perfectly.

3. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of a trendy name and an original name

If you call your little Louise in the playground, it’s very likely that several little girls will turn around. Conversely, if you choose a name that’s too original, your child may have to spell it out and repeat its pronunciation all their life. In France, parents are free to choose their child's name. There are no rules or lists of forbidden names. However, at the time of the birth declaration, the civil registrar can notify the public prosecutor if they believe the chosen name could harm the child's best interests. Popular and original names therefore each have their advantages and disadvantages. It’s up to you to weigh them! If you’re still looking for inspiration in either category, you can select the option in the filtering settings of our application.

4. Match the first name(s) with your last name

In general, if your last name is long, it’s better to choose a short first name. Conversely, if your last name is short, you can choose a longer first name. This way, you’ll find the perfect balance. It’s always a good idea to write the first name(s) next to the last name and say them out loud. This makes it easy to tell whether they sound good together. Avoid repeated syllables, which aren’t always pleasant to the ear, as well as unfortunate combinations. For example, you might avoid calling your daughter Mégane if your last name is Renault . ;)

5. Choose a simple spelling

With a first name, anything is possible! You can unleash your full creativity—there are no limits and no rules regarding spelling. However, as mentioned in our second point, keep in mind that original first names often need to be spelled out. Sometimes, you may even need to explain the pronunciation. The same applies to unusual spellings of popular first names such as: Aleksi or Edeyn . This isn’t necessarily a negative thing, but it’s worth considering when making your choice. Nothing prevents you from adding your own touch to the spelling; some variations have even become very common: Sofia instead of Sophia , Margot instead of Margaux . If you really like Ellen but find Hélène too popular, our app also offers several spellings.

6. Take a look at the meaning of the name

If you can't decide on a name, you can draw inspiration from its meaning. The meaning of a name is a powerful symbol that can reveal a lot about your future child. You might be captivated by the name Clément , which comes from the Latin « clemens » and means: « indulgent », « good », or « gentle ». Among young girls, the references are also numerous: Diane , a name derived from Latin meaning "divine", or Lucie , which comes from « lumière » in Latin. The chosen first name can also reflect your family’s history—for example, the first name Victory could be given to a little girl long awaited by her parents. :)

7. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of compound first names and nicknames

For several years now, the trend of compound first names has been making a comeback: Carla-Marie , Lily-Rose (Thank you Vanessa and Johnny ) or even Louis-Paul are at the forefront of trendy names. It’s also very practical when you have trouble agreeing on a single name: no preferences, no jealousies! But often, compound names, which are longer, end up as nicknames: Jean-Baptiste becoming J-B ! If you're not a fan of the idea that your child might end up with a nickname, it may be wise to avoid compound first names. You could opt for a short first name like Paul or Anna , which leaves little room for derivatives.

Conversely, if you choose a diminutive first name like Sam or Jenny , your child will probably be asked regularly: « is that your real name or a nickname? ».

8. Match the first name to the sibling: good idea?

Some parents deliberately choose to associate the first names of their siblings, with first names ...

• … that start with the same letter,

• … having the same origin or

• … inspired by the same universe.

Whether such a combination of names appeals to you or not, of course, remains a matter of taste! Nevertheless, it’s important to consider the names together. Who, as a parent, would want to constantly confuse Florent and Laurent ?

9. Check the translation and meaning of the first names in foreign languages

If you or your family don’t live abroad, this aspect may seem unnecessary at first. But keep in mind that later, your child may want to study or move to another country. Indeed, abroad, certain names can raise questions for locals. For example, the female name Mona means "monkey" in Spanish; as for Anne , it is the Turkish translation of « maman ». So, if you’re expecting a little cosmopolitan, consider taking a look at translations and meanings in other languages. The same goes for pronunciation! ;)

Whatever name you choose, the most important thing is that you and your partner are happy with it! If you wish, you can share it with your loved ones, but try not to take their opinions and advice too much into account. This choice is yours, and someone will always have an objection to your favorite name. ;)