Baby Boy names we loved but didn’t use

Choosing a baby name can be surprisingly challenging, especially when both parents have differing tastes. My husband and I went through a similar experience while expecting our baby boy. We had a shortlist of favorite names that resonated with us both, such as Arlo, Lennon, Lenox, and Callum. Each of these names had a special charm and meaning, but we wrestled with which one truly fit our vision for our little one. For instance, Arlo stood out because of its trendy yet timeless appeal — it’s a name that has gained popularity but still feels unique. Lennon, inspired perhaps by the legendary musician John Lennon, felt artistic and free-spirited. Lenox, with its strong, modern vibe, added a more contemporary edge to our list. Callum brought a Celtic flair that we both appreciated for its strong meaning, "dove". In the end, we decided on Wesley, a name that none of us would have guessed would win our hearts so absolutely. Wesley carries a classic and warm tone, perfectly suiting our baby boy’s personality as he grew. Reflecting back, the process taught me that it’s okay to have a list of names that don’t get used — they reflect our hopes and dreams for our child and are part of his story. If you’re currently navigating baby boy names, I’d suggest not rushing the decision. Explore names that you love from different origins and styles, consider their meanings, and imagine calling your child by these names over the years. You might be surprised like we were at which name feels right in the end. Just remember, the perfect name is the one that feels like home to your heart.