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We berries know that names others dismiss as strange, even wacky, are often mainstream. Jackson has eclipsed John, and many girls’ names in use only a few decades are among the most popular in the US. Neveah, Brooklyn, and Kaylee, I’m looking at you.

But if you are going to use an eye-poppingly strange name, I’m convinced the way to do it is to have a great story, one that your child won’t mind re-telling again and again. And again. Actually, you’d better be willing to re-tell your tale, too, as curious types coo at your sweet little newborn babe and ask if McKechnie is a family name.

Nancy shared a great article about two women with truly unique names earlier this week, and my theory held up. Bluzette experienced frustrating moments, especially as a kid, but mostly she’s made peace with her unusual name, inspired by a song. Open, who lacks a simple backstory, still struggles with her appellation.

Of course the biggest name this week requires no explanation. Jen and Ben went with an all-boy Biblical staple never out of US Top 100 for baby #3. The littlest Affleck kicks off our nine most newsworthy baby names this week: