Whether it's popular or old-fashioned, trendy or ethnic, when the two of you finally do choose a great-sounding name for your baby, the immediate temptation will be to share the news with everyone you know. But many couples are opting to keep their babies' names a secret until the child is actually born. The obvious downside to that is you will have people asking you the same question for months: “So, what's the baby's name going to be?”

If you decide to keep the name a surprise, then you might do well to send out a preemptive e-mail that tells everyone in your close (and maybe even not-so-close) circle that you prefer not to be asked that particular question. Or, you might simply reply, “We haven't decided yet.” That usually ends the conversation — and you should be able to keep your “secret name” under wraps until the baby's ready to be born.

Announcing … Baby!

Finally, now that you've chosen a name you both like, it's not too early to start planning for the baby announcements you'll be sending out in a few months. Of course, you can always call everyone immediately after baby's birth, or mail out more traditional-looking printed announcements. The choice is entirely up to you.

Even if you choose to work through your call list on the big day, you'll still want to jot down a little “script” to follow in order to maximize your time. In it, you'll include many of the same details you would on a printed birth announcement: name, birth date, and family members who welcome the child.

If you want to print up personalized birth announcements using your home computer and some preprinted paper, you can set up your template well ahead of baby's birth and fill in the details you already know: Baby's name, birth month and/or year, birthplace, and (of course) parents' and other family members such as grandparents or siblings. That way, when you're ready to head to the hospital for D-day, you'll have one more thing just about done in preparation for baby's world premiere.

Consider the Feelings of Family Members

When, how, and where to tell the world the name you choose for baby is a personal choice that's ultimately between the two of you. Your family has likely been supporting you emotionally throughout your life, as well as throughout your pregnancy, so show them lots of consideration when it comes to announcing your baby's birth and name! Your parents and siblings should be the first to hear the good news, followed by extended family and friends. Don't let folks in your immediate circle be the last to know; you may regret it later — or worse yet, you may never be able to live it down.