Love or hate Imogene?

[name_m]Hi[/name_m] Folks,

We’re expecting our second child this summer and one of the name we’re leaning towards is [name_f]Imogene[/name_f] (we’d likely have the middle name be [name_u]Wren[/name_u]). We wanted a name that is unique, but also has a vintage-feel, like our first child’s name ([name_f]Adelaide[/name_f]). [name_f]Imogene[/name_f] is a top pick for my spouse and I’m mostly sold on it, but I do have some reservations. I’d love to hear thoughts from others since we’re not sharing our name ideas with friends and family (but I secretly want input!).

Here’s what I like about it:

  • unique, yet not out there and trendy sounding
  • it’s an old, classic name
  • it sounds great with our last name and it also would sound nice with her sister’s name ([name_f]Adelaide[/name_f])
  • I love that it means “beloved child”
  • There are many sweet nickname variations including Imma, Immie, [name_f]Gigi[/name_f], Idgie
  • There’s a nice connection both to [name_f]Imogen[/name_f] Cunningham (artist) and [name_f]Imogene[/name_f] (“Idgie”), the fabulous character in [name_m]Fried[/name_m] [name_u]Green[/name_u] Tomatoes

Here’s what I don’t like about it:

  • It’s somewhat hard to pronounce and is often misheard (an experience we already have with [name_f]Adelaide[/name_f], I can’t tell you how many time I’ve corrected “[name_f]Natalie[/name_f]” and “Adelee”)
  • I don’t love the “gene” sound at the end, but I’m not a fan of [name_f]Imogen[/name_f] (so don’t suggest it)
  • I can’t tell if it’s just not a pretty name… is it too old fashioned or, for lack of a better word, hard sounding (like the actual sound of the name)?

Appreciate the honest feedback!

I’m in Australia and only hear/see [name_f]Imogen[/name_f] but [name_f]Imogene[/name_f] has that same old world charm to me. It has a great meaning and would go nicely with [name_f]Adelaide[/name_f]. However, if you are having reservations, you might consider some other names. What else have you liked?