Rafael, Rafa, Raff….thoughts!

[Bethwoodbank]

Hi oh wise mums! I want some honest feedback on names. My second baby, a boy is due in a couple of months. I already have a daughter called Emilia, who we almost exclusively call Emmie and I want to make sure the two names fit together. Me and my husband rarely agree on any names but we are both pretty happy with Rafael, to be known as Raff or Rafa (similar to how we use Emmie). So Emilia and Rafael; Emmie and Raff…So my questions…we are completely white British, no Mediterranean influence (although Hebrew heritage on one side and strong non family links to Portugal where we visit twice a year)- is Rafael appropriate? This is my main worry-I really like the name and LOVE the nn (Rafferty is an absolute non starter for hubby btw) but wonder if it conjures up Spanish/Portuguese vibes. Also, what would I use for eg. his stocking, personalised rucksack, nursery register etc…Raff or Rafa or other? We use Emmie for those sorts of things…the longer name is really just so they have options in later life (and for when they’re naughty 😂😂) thoughts welcome please 😀 🙏

There are lots of Rafaels about, none of the three in my DDs year at school have Spanish/med origins. I wouldn't worry about that if you like the name.

I know two men called Rafa. Both polish.

I like it. Rafe is awful. Sounds pretentious.

Rafferty? I don’t like Raffa, reminds me of the cycling brand. Raffi is great, makes me think of the singer!

I am from a military family so to me Raf means the Royal Air Force and Rafa means the Royal Air Force Association. Probably not an issue to most younger people though (and both acronyms are only more widely used amongst 70 year olds and above).

Rafael is nice though and much better than Rafferty. It is biblical, but as usable as Gabriel.

That should say "most younger and civilian people".