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Baby names

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

Should I change my baby's name?

54 replies

MonkeySeaMonkeyDo · 04/08/2026 13:12

My daughter's name is Annabel. She was born in June, and everyone (except grandparents) is still spelling her name incorrectly. As an example, I'll receive messages asking if they may come round to see 'Annabelle'. I've gently and subtly corrected before, but it's almost as if they forget and then can't remember which spelling it is (because there are so many variants). It is mostly insignificant how her name is spelt in a message to me, but it really bothers me when someone's name is misspelt. It's a pet peeve of mine. My husband has suggested changing her name. I love the name and do not want to change it to an entirely different name but feel like I have no choice if I ever want to see her name written properly. I just think about how this will become a bigger issue once she's at school and meeting loads of different people.

OP posts:
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seagullsandbeachhuts · 04/08/2026 14:04

How about keeping Annabel on the birth certificate, but using Anna or Belle/Bella day to day. Less scope for misspellings!

EssexEst · 04/08/2026 14:00

It won't get any better if you keep the name Annabel. I have a name that has two common spellings. As a child and teen, I received birthday cards and gifts from aunts and uncles with my name misspelt on them. My mum and dad reminded people, but they just never quite got it. It was upsetting to me as a child.

SJM1988 · 04/08/2026 13:45

Honesty you will get the issue with alot of names so I wouldn't change it for that reason. Just keep correcting. Everyone who matters will get it soon.

VoteForCountBinface · 04/08/2026 13:42

Keep the name. If her name is misspelt, send a message saying 'Hi Lousie, Thanks for the message. DD's name is Annabel. '

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