Nicola is expecting her first child.
She writes: "My husband and I are expecting a baby boy in mid-December and have found names we both LIKE but seem to disagree on the names we each LOVE. The baby's surname is relatively common (one syllable), and so I'm keen that his first name won't feature in the Top 10 most popular names of 2021 lists. Here are some names that I loved but that my other half has said no to:
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The like but don't love conundrum is remarkably common. Mostly, I think it sparks from the fact that we put so much pressure on finding the most amazing name -- it's a lot to live up to. I'm a big advocate for having a shortlist with you in hospital and seeing what feels right when you meet little one.
Asher – Sitting between Biblical Reuben and Jude and cool Otto and Lando is the upbeat Biblical choice Asher with the gorgeous meaning of "happy, joyful". It ranks at #189, so it is uncommon but not unheard of.
Barnaby – Matching Rupert's preppy polish, Barnaby is a friendly up-and-coming choice.
Chester – A happy, preppy vintage choice that fits the same style as Rupert and Douglas/Dougie.
Dominic – A classic stylish but oh-so-friendly choice that is familiar but sits just below the top 100. Plus, it sounds amazing with your surname.
Elliot – Another name that I think flows beautifully with your surname, Elliot is a smooth tailored choice like Rupert, Tristan and Reuben.
Ezra – This cool, upbeat Biblical choice has made a name for itself in recent years and now sits comfortably at #59.
Felix – Quirky Latin name that means "happy, lucky". It currently straddles the illusive familiar-but-not-too-common divide perfectly.
Flynn – A dashing Irish name with the 'lovable rogue' quality. I feel like there are enough consonants in Flynn for your tongue to get round to work with your short surname. More so than Finn even though it is just an extra ‘L’ essentially.
Gabriel – A handsome Biblical choice that suits all ages. I, personally, really like the alliteration with your surname.
Jasper – A British traditional, a gemstone and a descendant of the Biblical Casper, meaning "treasurer" in Persian, which history gave to one of the Wise Men. A lovely (but subtle) seasonal name for a December baby.
Jonah – In the style of Jude and Reuben is gentle fellow Biblical name Jonah meaning "dove" symbolic of peace.
Milo – A sweet historic name that has the stylish -o ending.
Otis – Otto's brother name that has more of a retro vibe.
Roman – A historic name that feels modern, sleek and stylish.
Rory– Remy + Rupert + Finley = friendly Celtic Rory. It has plenty of charm and lots of character.
Rufus – Rupert and Reubens first sound is also found in quirky, kingly Rufus.
Vincent – If your husband likes Douglas "Dougie", I wonder whether he would like Vincent "Vinnie". Vinnie ranks at #119 and Vincent at #126 -- in good use but not too common.
I hope this has been of use. Best wishes with settling on the perfect name.