I like Alexander but is it too popular?

[thing1andthing2]

So, we're having a boy!
We have settled on middle names Edward Harry after close and cherished family members.
For a first name we like Alexander (nn either Alex or Sacha) but wonder, is it too popular and should we try a bit harder?
Could you give me some more suggestions? It needs to be either recognisable or pronounceable in French as we may end up spending quite a bit of time there.
Other names we have liked (so you can guess our sort of taste) are:
Nicolas
Benedict
Daniel
Leander/Lysander

[MiladyGardenia]

Alexander is a Most Excellent name,imo.

Especially when followed by Benedict as a middle name.

Not that I'm biased, or anything.

I'm not keen on Daniel though (but only because I know one who is 'orrible) and Lysander might be a bit try-hardy.

[manicinsomniac]

I love Alexander. It's classic, popular without being everywhere and has loads of great nicknames.

Trying too hard is never a good thing!

[Asinine]

It's the best name ever. Go for it!

[Frontpaw]

I don't know any Alexanders but two Alexandras. Lovely name.

[OrmIrian]

DS1 is an Alexander but I have to say I know hardly any others. perhaps 2? So I don't think it's that popular.

[Samvet]

Alex rocks. Not common. Fabulous name!

[thing1andthing2]

Oooh thank you everyone you've restored my faith in the name. It was at number 21 in the lists in 2010 so popular but not quite top 20. I guess we'll just settle with calling our little one Alex... only 18 weeks to go...

[tammytoby]

I'm not biased (don't have one) and have to go against the grain and say I much prefer Lysander, Nicolas and Benedict. Alex(ander) is a little bland in comparison, sorry.

[sparkle12mar08]

I have an Alexander, I think it's gorgeous - strong, classy and classical. But despite it not even being top twenty there are three in my sons class

[Bearcrumble]

I have an Alexander. The people over the road have an Alexander. It was the third most popular boys' name in London last year. It's still a lovely name but I might have chosen something else if I'd know how popular it was.

[ballroompink]

I wouldn't say it's overly popular, more 'classic'. I like it.

[CheerfulYank]

I like Alexander a lot but can't use it as I work with children and have had some "challenging" Alexes in my past. :o Lovely name though. It is really popular here but I don't think it will date.

[Yama]

Great name.

[Blatherskite]

I have an Alexander. We know 1 other through friends of friends and there is one at swimming. It's popular but not in a 5 in every class way.

We love it