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Baby names

Find baby name inspiration and advice on the Mumsnet Baby Names forum.

Original poster

Spelling dilemma

85 replies

MissMoodyMoo · 27/04/2023 21:03

So we have agreed we like the name Fern, it fits well with our 1st child's name and our last name. However My husband prefers the spelling Fearne. I just don't like the A it makes no sense. So I've said we could compromise and do the Ferne spelling. I prefer Fern but could live with the E. What are people's opinions on this
Fern
Ferne
Fearne

I've told him the more we talk about the bloody spelling it will put me off the name all together lol

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Gnoblin · 27/04/2023 21:14

Fern or Fearne are both established spellings and will not present a problem. The other one is a new/ misspelling so will be the one to cause issues. To be honest with the first two it’ll be 50/50 to which one most people will jump to, but no different to Stephen/ Steven and I’ve not come across anyone worried about using those because of spelling confusion.

IggyAce · 27/04/2023 21:14

I work in a school and I’d automatically spell it Fern.
To me Fearne is how I’d spell it as a surname.

kezziecakes · 27/04/2023 21:13

I prefer your spelling Fern, it seems simpler and more classic. Also I've heard Fearne Cotton say her name is with a few extra letters that don't do anything thrown in!

Original poster
MissMoodyMoo · 27/04/2023 21:13

Hmm so I think he may be right lol OK. I'll consider fearne 🤣

OP posts:
SisSuffragette · 27/04/2023 21:11

Fearne for sure

shoopshoopdedoo · 27/04/2023 21:11

I think I prefer Fearne... Sorry!

MichelleScarn · 27/04/2023 21:09

Also prefer Fearne!

FoggyDay58 · 27/04/2023 21:09

Personally I wouldn't choose any name that has a few different commonly accepted spellings. Your child will have to spell it for the whole of their life. Pick another name.

multivac · 27/04/2023 21:08

Again, sorry, but your compromise is the worst of both worlds. Either Fern or Fearne. And I think I prefer the latter....

secondaryquandriesqq · 27/04/2023 21:06

Fern or Fearne (sorry!).