A reader named Jessica contacted me a few days ago with an interesting question.
She and her husband have one son, named Cruz. They are expecting a second son in December. The only name they’re both really enthusiastic about is Grey.
The problem? Their last name starts with the word “black.” Let’s say it’s Blackburn. So, if the baby’s first name were Grey, his full name would be Grey Blackburn.
Jessica and her husband aren’t so sure about the combination:
What do you think? Is the Grey-Black color pairing ridiculous?
Jessica’s question reminded me Julie’s question about the initials S.O.S. from last year. Both cases have to do with given names that are perfectly fine (Samuel Otis; Grey) but surnames that create issues (S.O.S.; Grey Blackburn).
My take? I wouldn’t say the pairing is ridiculous. I think Grey is usable.
But, personally, I’d keep looking. (Especially since there’s so much time left!)
There are thousands of good names out there. I’ll bet Jessica and her husband could find at least a few others as enticing as Grey, but that mesh better with their surname.
What’s your opinion of Grey in this situation?
P.S. I can’t resist throwing in some suggestions:
|
Cole Dane Drake Gage |
Graham Grant Guy Kai |
Kent Pace Paul Pierce |
Quinn Tate Trent Ty |
I think Grey Blackburn is usable. I’m more concerned about the pairing with Cruz. “Grey Cruz” could be awkward, as could be any other word-name pairing (like Pace & Cruz).
Kai, Sage and Trace work quite well too.
I know a Gary Gray and a Olivia Greene… while their names are memorable, being best known for having a “punny” name isn’t what I’d want my child. Grey Blackburn isn’t ridiculous — but since you asked Nancy for her opinion, a part of you already knows you aren’t done looking for a name.
Keene
Linc
Hale
Griff
Gage
Reeve
Trey
Micah
Owen
Jude
Flynn
I wouldn’t recommend Grey with the surname Black…. As Nancy said, there are many other names they could use. For one reason or another, many parents have to let go of a name they love and move on to another name. It’s all about — or should be — their child who will be living with the name. Every time he met someone new Grey Black… would be dreading The Comment about his name. Grant Blackburn is similar and sounds far more distinguished.