Have you ever considered that naming a child could cost lakhs of rupees? Normally, people turn to family members, religious texts, the family priest, or the internet when choosing a baby name. However,
today we’re highlighting a woman who has turned this into a luxury business, charging lakhs to suggest baby names to parents.
Meet Taylor A. Humphrey, a baby name consultant based in San Francisco, United States of America.
The Start Of A Unique Career
Taylor began her career around ten years ago, initially as a hobby. Fascinated by names since childhood, she started sharing her interest on social media. Gradually, she began receiving enquiries from parents seeking her advice on baby names.
Today, she boasts over 100,000 followers on TikTok and Instagram and has provided name suggestions for over 500 babies.
Cost Of Services
Taylor’s fees run into lakhs of rupees, with packages to suit different needs. The basic package costs $200 (roughly Rs. 16,000), which includes a list of names sent via email.
The premium package, on the other hand, is $30,000 (around Rs. 26.6 lakh) and covers not only the name but also the family’s genealogy, branding, and in-depth research.
Beyond Naming: A Mediator And Counsellor
According to the New York Post, Taylor sees her role as more than simply choosing a name. When parents disagree, she often acts as a mediator or counsellor.
Many parents become deeply emotional about names, believing they influence their child’s identity and future. Thus, her work can be quite significant.
Diverse Clientele
Her clientele ranges from wealthy families and celebrities to everyday people. Those who want a unique and distinctive name for their child frequently seek her expertise.
An article about her in The New Yorker in 2021 further boosted her demand, allowing her to raise her fees several times over.
Facing Criticism
Taylor admits that she often faces ridicule online, with people questioning why anyone would pay so much just to name a child. But she takes it in good stride, explaining, “Yes, it may seem odd to charge for naming, but I believe this work is important because it helps parents choose the right name.”