Elena - too close to other popular names?

[ladyfitzpatrix]

I really love the name for my three week old. I like it pronounced Elaina. But the other thread made me think. Will it get lost amongst the Ellies, etc?
Haven't registered yet but am getting second thoughts.

Choose the name you love. I would know to pronounce Elena in the way you prefer, I'm sure most people would get it right.

As for the shortening to Ellie, I have an Eleanor she's almost 7yrs no one has ever called her Ellie. I don't even know any Ellie's I think it's waning in popularity and you'll probably never have an issue.

Just from reading other thread about loads of E names and a ending names!

I know an Elena. She is never shortened to Ellie. She pronounces it like Eleanor though.

I think it's beautiful, what about Helena for something a bit different? It's one of my favourite names. Also if you are pronouncing it Elaina then Lainey would make a lovely nn :)

The one I know pronounces it like Eleanor. Nice name but be prepared to clarify how it is pronounced.

I have an Elena. It's spelt differently though and pronounced Elaina. She's always been Ellie.

I don't think it would be shortened unless you/your dd want it to be. It's pretty and more grown up than Ellie. I like it.

I adore Elena, and have done since I was very young - way before the current rash of Ellies/Ellas.

I just think it is so classy and gorgeous.

I know two elenas of different ages, neither gets shortened to Ellie. I love it!

I know an Elena who shortens her name to Lainey. No-one has called her Ellie ever I don't think. I think it's a lovely name.
FWIW my name has an obvious shortened version that I hate. Few people have used it & if they do I tell them I'm not keen on being called that. Your DD will decide herself what she wants to be called when she's older.

Elena is our top choice fur a girl too. I love it, it's unusual without being out there. We envision shortening it to lainey.