As Christmas approaches, many soon-to-be parents are on the lookout for meaningful and magical names for their newborns. In the past names such as Carol, Christine and Christian were popular for those with December birthdays.
However these have fallen out of favour over recent years with names with a more modern twist being the popular choice. However it can still be hard trying to come up with a name which is both meaningful and timely.
Devon Kapler founder of Go Au Pair has shared a list of Christmas-themed names that capture the holiday spirit – and what they mean. “From Bianca to Blaze to Snowden, these names are inspired by the beauty, warmth, and meaning of the season,” Devon commented. “Each one has its own charm, but they’re all connected by their ability to reflect the joy and peace of Christmastime.”
She added: “These names beautifully reflect the season’s themes of light, warmth, purity, and tradition. There’s something here for every family celebrating the joy of a winter arrival.”
Here are Devon’s top picks:
Blaze
Blaze look to the imagery of light, a central theme of Christmas. Devon explains: “Blaze evokes the warmth of glowing holiday fires and the radiant spirit of the season,” Devon explained. “It’s a bold and modern choice, full of energy.”
Neve
Another name which draws on light is Neve. Derived from the Irish Niamh meaning “bright,” it captures the gentler essence of Christmas lights and candles. “It’s a name that shines softly, symbolizing the light that pierces the darkness,” Devon added .
Blanco and Bianca
For those drawn to names that embody purity and serenity, Blanco and Bianca are excellent choices. Meaning “white” in Spanish and Italian, they symbolize snow, winter’s stillness, and the season’s serene beauty. Devon noted, “These names also represent brightness and simplicity, perfectly reflecting the peace of Christmastime.”
Dove
The theme of purity is echoed in the name Dove, which Devon described as “a symbol of peace, love, and hope, deeply tied to the spirit of the season.”
Saint
In a bold nod to the religious significance of Christmas, Saint is rooted in Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus. “It’s a modern, striking name that still carries traditional values of holiness and virtue,” said Devon. She said the name had seen a recent rise in popularity due to Kim Kardashian and Kanye West naming their son Saint West.
Wynter
Devon says some names draw directly from the natural elements of winter. Wynter provides a chic, modern twist on the season itself. “It evokes snowy magic and cozy warmth, making it a stylish and unique choice for a baby born during the holidays,” she said.
Snowden
Another name that complements this theme is Wynter. It can conjure up images of snowy landscapes and the calm beauty of the season. “It’s soft yet strong, a name that’s both festive and memorable,” Devon added.
Gabriel or Gabriella
For parents inspired by classic Christmas traditions, Gabriel or Gabriella offers timeless elegance. These names honour the archangel Gabriel, who announced the birth of Jesus. “They’re steeped in the spiritual significance of the nativity story,” Devon explained.
Clara
Similarly, Clara pays homage to the whimsical world of The Nutcracker, the beloved Christmas ballet. “It’s elegant and festive, tied to the magic of the holiday season,” Devon said.
Ivy
Finally, Ivy brings a touch of evergreen charm to the list. Rooted in traditional holiday decorations, it also appears in the classic carol “The Holly and the Ivy.” “Its connection to the season’s enduring greenery makes it a festive yet timeless choice,” Devon remarked, noting that Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s daughter Blue Ivy Carter, has added a contemporary flair to the name.