Theodore or Joseph?

[amiready]

What do you think of the name Theodore? Is it too poncey? I love Theo and Joe as shortenings but I'm doubtful about Theodore - although I like the fact it is more unusual than Joseph. I think I'd want to go with the official name on the birth certificate though rather than just the shortening. Bit worried about family reactions. Also Theo means God but Theodore means gift of God which is a bit nicer I think. First timer - names so difficult!

Theodore is not for me but I like Joseph.
Theodore sounds like a cbb character imo.

Prefer Joe/Joseph.

Joseph! Theodora isn't poncy to me, mostly because we know a lot of little Theos (and it's rocketing up the name charts, so it's not only popular in our area) but no Joseph / Joes!

I like Theo but prefer Joseph

Like both but love Joseph

Why not just use Theo as the full name, I prefer it to Theodore

Sorry haven't read OP properly, you said you didn't want to use the shortening on the birth certificate

Joseph is my favourite boys name, and love it shortened to Joe!

Joseph, obviously.

Joseph nn Joe is the best

Joseph. Say it out loud. It's so mellifluous.

And Joe is just great.

We have a (nine, nearly ten year old) Theodore. Bit gutted at how popular it's become - it wasn't in the top 100 when we chose it and everyone said what a great name it was..... Anyhoo, he's known as Theo for everyday stuff, but is registered in full, and does use it himself sometimes if he's having a 'serious' day .

Thanks everyone - baby was a girl! So no need to decide. Phew! But good to have your input for next time!

Congratulations! What name did you choose for her?