Abscent father

[ChinChilaa]

Changing childs name officially after separation with a father who was in & out for the first year of my daughters life and has now ceased all contact (other than agreeing to sign name change when it arrives).

I am dropping his surname but not only that, he talked me in to naming my daughter with a name I wasnt so sure on, so since I am now going to drop his surname its probably the best opportunity to give her the first name I originally wanted aswell, but she is now 1 and family think its not right to do it now. I dont think its too late at aged 1
Thoughts......?

We're sure you'll make the right decision for you and your daughter. Just wanted to pop in and bump this for you - perhaps someone else has experience they can share with you..

I think by 1 they do recognise their own name so it would be hard. Is it something at all similar?

If you really want to go for it I would do so gradually. Use your preferred name almost like a nick name or term of endearment to start with. See how the react.