Nicknames are absolutely not necessary, but they are a reality. [name]Michael[/name] will grow up to be [name]Mike[/name], whether you like it or not. So you always have to take that in to consideration. My Bfs name is [name]Brittany[/name] and her mother HATES [name]Britt[/name]…well that’s what everyone calls her. When your child gets to school age and there is an obvious nickname…it’s inevitable. My name is [name]Jennifer[/name] and people automatically assume I am [name]Jen[/name].