An old not-so-cherished tradition in France was naming children after saints on the Roman Catholic calendar. Calenders were often (and still to this day) printed with a saint for each day of the year. Until 1966, parents could only name their children one of those names. This is why you see so many people in history named Jacques, Jean, Michel, Pierre, Jean-Baptiste, Marie, … [Read more...]
Top Baby Names in France and Naming Trends for 2011
This year I have taken a particular interest in the top baby names in france for 2011 since I am giving birth in late September (or early October if I calculate by due date using the French method). Overall, in France the trend has been moving towards selecting shorter names. We are seeing less children in France named Alexandre or Nathalie, and more names like Lucas or … [Read more...]
Choosing a Baby Name in France According to French Customs
Trying to find the perfect baby name for our little French American girl has been quite a challenge. What is current in one country does not seem to be current in the other. Since she will be growing up in France, we placed a higher priority on giving her a name that will help her fit in here. Luckily, many French baby names are trendy in the USA - just agreeing on one is … [Read more...]