Copying DH's cousin's name?

[JosephineClaire]

Is it OK to give our baby the same name as DH's cousin?

If it was my cousin, it'd be fine as I have 26 first cousins and we're always recycling names in my family, so it's no big deal

But DH's family is small (only 3 cousins) and the cousin in question is only 7 yrs old...not 30 like DH. So even though it's technically the next generation, it doesn't feel like it.

We only see DH's aunt, uncle and cousins 2-3 times a year, which is why I am considering it as a yes - although DH's Mum and sisters see them more frequently..

Do you think DH's aunt and uncle will be unhappy we've 'copied' their DD's name, and will the 7 yr old be annoyed or indifferent?

Opinions/experiences welcome

Hmm, I think it will lead to confusion and maybe upset. I really do love the name Tilly though.

Why not call her Tilly but register her as Matilda, just incase she becomes a lawyer or something high profile. Although, in 20 years time there will be so many Tilly's and I'm sure plenty of them will have hotshot jobs.

I do know a couple of people that have been called a shorterned versions of their name, and until older were not even aware of the long name on the certificate.

And how about spelling it with Mathilda if the other one is Matilda? Or go for the French Mathilde to ring the changes even more.

I wouldn't, I would want a 'new' name for the family and discounted all family and close friend's kids names. A couple of my ILs did it and I thought was abit odd to use same name.

Tbh even though I only see most of my cousins at weddings and funerals I'd be a bit narked if they copied my babies' names! If it was me I wouldn't risk what should be a lovely announcement having a negative family impact -but I guess you could just approach 7 year old Matilda's parents beforehand and see if they'd mind?