spelling first name and surname - Isla?

[MumChats]

Our last name is very unusual (we're British and in the UK; surname is from another country). No one knows how to say it and we always have to spell it out. I'm pregnant and we're considering the first name name Isla for the baby. I think it's beautiful and DH likes it but worries that it's a bit awkward to spell and that we'd be saddling our future DD with two names that she'll have to spell out/that people will mispronounce or get wrong.

What do you think? I know Isla is rising in popularity so probably more people are aware of it but I'm sure she'll get called "is-la" or written "ila" now and then.

Isla has been in the top 10 girls' names in England and Wales for at least a decade and is currently #3. names.darkgreener.com/#isla
It is highly unlikely to have any spelling issues.

IMO it's a pretty enough name but is part of a trend for vowely names, so might not date very well. It also blends in with the Lila/Lilah/Ivy etc trend so sort of blends in. If the surname is unusual, it will help but she's highly likely to be one of many Islas in her peer group

I’ve looked after loads of little girls named Isla - it’s quite popular in my area! I wouldn’t think you’d have much difficulty in spelling it out since it’s popular and only 4 letters. I would also be fairly surprised if anyone called her issla. But then I always think if you have doubts now it’s probably back to the drawing board! I think it’s lovely for what it’s worth, and popular for a good reason.

I wouldn’t worry, Isla is massively popular!

yes, v v v popular in the last 10 years so unlikely to be too much of an issue with spelling.

Thanks for your opinions - very helpful. Sounds like we might be overthinking it 🙂

It's a beautiful name and I don't think she would have to spell it out much. I have to spell out both my names. It doesn't cause much hassle.

I'd say everyone knows at least 2 Islas, it's one of the most popular names in the UK for children right now. She won't have any trouble.

I know an Islay pronounced Isla, now that is more confusing

I have a teen Isla and she never has to spell her name in the UK. Everyone knows it and gets it right.
The United States on the other hand... She gets called Izla every time someone reads her name.

The isle of Islay is pronounced eye-la.

Be careful how the Isla goes with the surname. Isla with a spanish surname might suggest Issla pronunciation. Surname starting with a vowel might get the eliding r (e.g. Isla rAtkinson). Surname starting with R and the R will be mistaken for an eliding r. Surname starting with a V will sound like Isle of or I love, with a T will sound like Isle at etc

I’ve always had to spell my first and last name, it’s no big deal. Having a 4 letter first name to spell is definitely easier than a 9 letter one.

I know lots of Isla’s I doubt any one will have issues with the spelling.

I have often had to spell both my 1st name- also only 4 letters, but also my surname. Just a very uncommon English surname, but both names aren't difficult to spell or pronounce- just uncommon. Not a huge issue and I've managed 40+yrs. I love Isla by the way, but it it very popular.