Calling all Name Nerds!

[shells15]

I use Evernote. I recently posted this on two boards previously. You may find some other ideas on them.
How do you organize your names? and How do you keep track of names you love, like or loathe?

@shells15

I recently posted this on another board, but it is still applicable to what I do today. The only difference I’ve made is adding a Archive section for both boys and girls where I move names I still like but am not considering using into so I still have them on hand.

@shells15

I used to write everything down as I found them, but it was messy and I could never figure out where everything was. Now I use Evernote. I have one notebook divided into Boys Names, Girls Names, Combinations I’m Actually Considering, Notes and Family & Friends Names.

In Boys and Girls Names, I have a template that lets me put meanings, origins, pronunciations, nicknames, notes, combos using that name and alternatives (e.i. I may prefer Eliza, but want to make note of Lisa just in case – both are derivatives of Elizabeth). I also tag these names with Yes, Maybe, No, Nicknames Only and Middle Names. I can move names between the tags as my tastes change.

@shells15

With so many of the same name in our family, it’s hard to remember who is who. I use it to try to not use the same names over again just because they’re family names (I want my kids to have their own names), but there is one exception (and only if my SO wants it too). I also use the family and friend names as a starting point if I want to honor a specific person (i.e. family member named Michael, honor name Micah).