If you’re expecting in the coming months, then you’re probably thinking about both first names and middle names for your newborn. Perhaps you’ve been browsing the naming websites and books to see what’s trending or what sticks out to you. That said, you might be stuck in a rut of not wanting to choose a baby name, including (and maybe especially) a middle name, that is either dated or overused.
“Middle names are a really special part of a child’s name because they’re often where families can add meaning, honor loved ones or choose something a little more unexpected,” says Nikki Terrell, baby name consultant and founder of Names By Rose. “The best name combinations aren’t always the trendiest ones—they’re the ones that feel right for the family choosing them.”
But if you don’t have a family connection to work with or a middle moniker in mind, where do you even start? It’s kind of a personal journey, but what you can start with is what middle names to stop using based on trends or how overused they are.
With that in mind, Parade spoke with two professional baby name consultants about the two middle names you’ll want to steer clear of if you can help it. Spoiler alert: a flower moniker is indeed on this list. Plus, some good rules to remember when choosing a second name for your baby, including how to make it flow.
Related: 9 Baby Names Nobody Was Using 5 Years Ago—but They’re About To Be Everywhere
The Middle Name Dilemma: What Are the 2 Names Consultants Want You To Skip?
When it comes to middle names that parents should stop using, our baby name experts have two: Mae and Rose.
Now, there’s no denying that they are absolutely beautiful; however, they have become the “Marie” and “Lynn” of the 2020s. In other words, they’ve become filler names that have lost their spark.
The Rise of ‘Mae’ for Girls: Why It’s Time To Retire the Trend
If you’re thinking about “Mae” for your baby’s middle name, then you might want to reconsider.
“Mae has such a sweet vintage charm, and I completely understand why parents love it,” says Terrell. “At the same time, it has become one of those easy-to-pair middle names that shows up very often. I’d love to see parents look beyond the most familiar choices and find names that feel uniquely theirs.”
Related: 125 Weird Baby Names for Parents Who Think Outside the Box
Breaking Free from ‘Filler’ Names: How To Move Past ‘Rose’
There’s no denying that “Rose” is a beautiful, timeless name, but it’s become almost like the default middle name for girls.
“It’s so common that it often feels like a placeholder rather than a meaningful choice,” says Greer Lane, a baby name consultant.
The Art of the Perfect Flow: 3 Rules for Pairing First and Middle Names
If you’re thinking about middle names for your baby, then there is a bit of a soft science behind it in terms of flow, according to our experts. Here are three rules for pairing first and middle names that they recommend.
The syllable bounce: Pay attention to syllables and how the names sound together. “A first and middle name often flow best when they have different rhythms rather than matching too closely,” explains Terrell. “For example, a two-syllable first name often pairs beautifully with a one- or three-syllable middle name, and the variation creates a natural ‘bounce’ when you say the full name aloud.” Mix the style: Lane suggests trying to combine names from different styles. “A vintage first name with a modern middle (or vice versa) creates a combination that feels unique without being overdone,” she explains. Say the name aloud: “A name can look beautiful written down but sound completely different when spoken. Saying it aloud helps you catch awkward transitions or sounds that run together like Elise Elaine or Parker Patrick,” says Terrell.Related: 75 Most Popular Baby Names in France Right Now
15 Sophisticated, Expert-Approved Middle Names To Use Instead
If you’re looking for other middle names to consider for your baby, here’s a list of 15 that our baby name consultants love.
Vibe/Style
Claire
Simple, elegant and timeless
Sophisticated
Sky
Light, fresh and unexpected
Romantic
Pearl
Vintage and distinctive with a soft elegance
Mystical
Blair
Polished, preppy and modern
Irish
Dove
Soft, peaceful and distinctive
Sleek
Lane
Sleek, understated and versatile
Literary
Troy
Strong and timeless with a vintage charm
Distinguished
Bea
Sweet, simple and full of character
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Related: 75 Most Popular Baby Names in the Midwest Right Now
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Nikki Terrell is a baby name consultant and founder of Names By Rose. Greer Lane is a baby name consultant.Hence then, the article about a professional baby name consultant is begging parents to stop using these 2 middle names was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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