The Carpool with Kelly and Lizz: Episode Summary
Title: OBSESSED WITH BABY NAMES w/ NAMING Bebe
Release Date: December 12, 2024
Hosts: Kelly Stumpe and Lizz St. John
Guest: Colleen Slagen, Baby Name Consultant from Naming Bebe
1. Episode Overview
In this engaging episode of The Carpool with Kelly and Lizz, hosts Kelly Stumpe and Lizz St. John delve into the fascinating world of baby names with special guest Colleen Slagen from Naming Bebe. The discussion centers around choosing the perfect baby names, understanding naming trends, sibling name cohesion, and the nuances of baby naming consultations.
2. Introduction to the Guest
Kelly and Lizz introduce Colleen Slagen, a passionate baby name consultant who runs the popular Instagram account Naming Bebe. Colleen shares her lifelong obsession with names, tracing her interest back to childhood activities like reading yearbooks and collecting baby name books.
[19:02] Liz: “I never knew so many people are into baby names until I started working in this field.”
3. Starting with Baby Names
The conversation begins with Kelly and Lizz discussing their personal experiences with naming their children. Colleen explains her data-driven approach to helping parents choose names that resonate with their personal preferences and family traditions.
[19:16] Kelly: “So you're a baby naming expert?”
[19:28] Colleen: “I'll take it. I am obsessed with baby names.”
4. Popularity and Trends in Baby Naming
Colleen emphasizes the importance of understanding current naming trends. She notes how names like Rory and Sloane have surged in popularity, often becoming as ubiquitous as brands like Starbucks among children.
[21:36] Liz: “I started with Irish names like Rory, but realized they were everywhere, so I pivoted to more classic vintage names.”
5. Sibling Name Cohesion
A significant portion of the episode discusses the importance of sibling name sets. Colleen outlines her guidelines to ensure names within a family complement each other without being too similar, such as avoiding names that share the same three letters in a row.
[44:14] Colleen: “No names should share the same three letters in a row. So, Camden and Camila? No.”
6. Challenges in Naming
Kelly raises questions about the ethics of naming, such as whether it's acceptable to reuse names within a different generation or family circle. Colleen advises open communication and understanding personal preferences to navigate these challenges effectively.
[26:35] Kelly: “What's the etiquette, though? If you're the second one to have the baby, do you have to tell them before?”
[26:48] Liz: “I think you do too. Communicate it. People just want to have a conversation about it.”
7. Consultation Experiences
Colleen shares insights into her consultation process, which includes a detailed questionnaire and a comprehensive PDF report with name recommendations. She highlights the diversity of client needs, from couples struggling to agree on a name to those seeking innovative sibling sets.
[36:08] Liz: “I send a client a 15-question survey to get all the details of what they're looking for.”
8. Unique Naming Stories
The hosts ask Colleen about memorable consultations. She recounts working with a client blending Texas and Goth styles, seeking names with villainous connotations inspired by characters like Maleficent. Colleen provided names with a witchy and vintage flair, such as Theodora and Theodosia.
[39:33] Liz: “She wanted to embrace names with a villainous connotation... So I went with names like Theodora and Theodosia.”
9. Balancing First and Middle Names
Kelly brings up the challenge of ensuring first names pair well with last names. She expresses concern over how her chosen first name Gemma complements her last name Stumpe. Colleen advises focusing primarily on the first name's suitability, noting that some pairings may require middle name adjustments.
[48:07] Kelly: “I loved the girl named Gemma, but Gemma Stumpe could not go less together.”
[48:34] Colleen: “I think Gemma Stumpe is totally fine. Focus on getting the first name right.”
10. Nickname Versus Formal Names
The discussion shifts to the use of nicknames versus formal names. Kelly contemplates whether to maintain a formal name or adopt a nickname like Hattie for Harriet. Colleen prefers having a formal name with an obvious nickname, ensuring versatility and ease of use.
[49:00] Kelly: “Should I have just named Hattie Harriet, or use the nickname?”
[49:13] Liz: “I tend to give the formal name with the nickname for versatility.”
11. Vehicle Names Segment
In a light-hearted detour, Kelly asks Colleen about car manufacturer naming conventions. They critique various vehicle names, citing Carnival as the worst name and praising names like Expedition and Telluride for their thematic consistency.
[52:15] Kelly: “I think the Carnival is the worst name in the world for a vehicle.”
[53:14] Liz: “Warby Parker does that with their glasses and it's so fun.”
12. Quick Recipes Segment
As a playful segment, Lizz and Kelly share quick, drive-through-avoidant dinner recipes. Colleen presents a versatile gnocchi and sausage skillet, while Lizz offers a veggie lasagna alternative using cottage cheese to hide vegetables.
[55:55] Colleen: “You can substitute any meat or veggie. It's really flexible.”
[57:10] Liz: “Veggie lasagna is a great way to hide veggies and make it kid-friendly.”
13. Conclusion and Takeaways
The episode wraps up with Colleen providing her contact information for consultations and sharing her Instagram handle @namingbebe. Kelly and Lizz express their appreciation for Colleen’s insights, highlighting the valuable advice on baby naming and sibling sets.
[58:07] Liz: “You can find me on Instagram or TikTok. My handle is namingbebe.”
[58:43] Kelly: “Whenever I get pregnant again, you’ll know my name choice first.”
Key Takeaways
- Data-Driven Naming: Utilize a combination of personal preferences, trend analysis, and family traditions to choose names.
- Sibling Cohesion: Ensure sibling names complement each other without being overly similar to avoid confusion.
- Communication: Openly discuss name choices with your partner, especially if considering names already used within your social circle.
- Consultation Benefits: Professional consultations can provide structured guidance and fresh perspectives on naming.
- Flexibility with Names: Allow names to grow on you and remain open to adjusting your choices as you envision your child's identity.
This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of baby naming, filled with expert advice, personal anecdotes, and practical tips for parents navigating the exciting journey of naming their children.