I thought I had decided on Annika for our girl... surname is a lot like "Lock". BUT... I'm starting to wonder. We're both not quite sure about the two "k" sounds" and I think Aussies WILL shorten it, and Ann/Anni/Nika don't grab me greatly. So... decided to re-open pandora's box and look at more names. So now I don't know if that means Annika isn't right!

Next best name we've come up with is Eliana (or Elliana - DH's preferred spelling). I like the fact it could be shortened to Ellie/Lani/Liana etc. So now I'm torn! I think the shortenings are better, it's very pretty, nice with our surname... but it IS longer... and my name is actually Bella... so Ellie & Bella??

Other similar names we like (but have ruled out for various reasons) often with flowing "n" sounds and we love the unusual (DS is Xander). Stuff like Rhianna, Sienna, Alanna, Tabitha, Cassia, Ebony, Melody, Sabriel, Summer, Jenna, Elka, Elowen etc... but for all these we've come up with reasons not to use 'em.

One of my criteria... if my child was to be picked up and transported to a fairyland, I want their name to sound strong, creative and regal... i.e. they could BE a prince/princess elf! I.e. it can't be too common/prosaic/everyday. Princess Susan... nah doesn't work for me. DH thinks this is hilarious, can't think why!

So... any ideas... and what do you prefer out of Annika/Eliana/Elliana? And can you think of teasing options or problems? Smelly Ellie?