Local Cemeteries Are the Newest Source for Baby Name Inspiration

The inspiration for a unique baby name can come from anywhere but the latest TikTok trend has parents-to-be exploring what might be considered an unusual source.

Haley Brooks Hodge, a soon-to-be mom of four and the creator behind @hodgehouse, recently went viral after suggesting that expectant parents go for a walk through their local cemetery for baby name inspiration. “When cemeteries hold the prettiest names, so you take the family to look for the perfect baby girl name,” Hodge captioned a video of her strolling through Oakdale Cemetery.

As the expectant mom walks through the graveyard with her family she points out names on headstones like Bellamy, Cooper (the grave her sister was named after she notes), Magdalene, Meares, Cape, Staley, Clementine, Nora, Adelaide and Lena. At the end of the video, she includes a whole list of unique standouts, from Lula to Sailor.

In the comments, people chimed in with their favorite names and fondness for the idea. “Lisette is SO lovely! And L is my favorite first initial (because cursive L looks amazing on monograms and jewelry),” wrote one user. “My grandma did the same thing for my mom’s name - Alynda. She’s never met another and always gets compliments on how beautiful her name is,” added another user.

For those who feel the idea has a dark or “creepy” feeling to it one commenter added a fresh perspective. “Nothing creepy or strange about cemeteries. History lives there, time capsules filled with memories and a past to be rediscovered. Going to find inspiration or for an excursion is beautiful, people deserve to be honored and remembered,” she said.

Looking for baby name inspiration from a bygone era? Check out our list of vintage baby names.