20 Storybook-Worthy, Timeless Baby Names with Soul for Girls and Boys

When I was choosing names for my children, I found myself searching for that rare balance; something timeless, but not overused. Unique, but not unpronounceable. A name that felt like it belonged in a storybook, but still fit effortlessly into the real world. I’ve seen so many other parents on the same journey, so I decided to gather a list of names that carry soul, softness, and strength; the kind of names that feel individual and like legacy all at once.

A "girl mom" I was not meant to be, but if I were, these are names I considered and still hold a soft spot in my heart.

Girl Names

Maren – Ocean-born and quietly strong, Maren evokes calm and courage in equal measure.

Sage – A name that smells like wisdom and wild herbs, grounded in clarity and intuition.

Isolde – Romantic and rooted in myth, this name sings with soft edges and ancient tales.

Elowyn – A woodland breeze of a name, light on the tongue and full of magic.

Briar – Sharp and soft all at once, a fairy tale name for a child with spirit.

Pearl – Classic and quietly radiant, like something found on the shore at dawn.

Rayla – A name that feels like stardust and movement, full of possibility.

Rue – Gentle, earthy, and poetic, perfect for a quiet strength.

Scarlet – Rich and bold, Scarlet brings vintage glamour and fiery charm.

Winnie – Sweet as honey, old-soul charm with a spark of wild mischief.

It was harder for me to find names I could envision my boys carrying, and that felt grounded and good. Below are a few I considered (and two we went with).

Boy Names

Grier – Crisp and confident, with a gentle sophistication that stands out.

Sören – Soft and Nordic, like snowfall on pine, rooted, calm, and full of depth.

Björn – Bear-strong and ancient, this name carries warmth and power.

Dane – Straightforward and clean, yet noble and grounded in heritage.

River – Ever-changing, always moving, a name for a soul who flows with feeling.

Everest – Majestic and mighty, yet serene. A name that reaches high and stays steady.

Thorin – Dwarvish roots and thunder in the bones, a name built for strength and story.

Keegan – Spirited and bright, like a spark you can’t help but follow.

Orion – Star-mapped and celestial, for the child who was born to dream big.

Wolfe – Fierce and poetic. The wild protector with soulful eyes.

These names reflect the kinds of qualities I hope to capture in my photography too; depth, story, soul. If you found a favorite or have your own storybook-worthy names to share, I’d love to hear them. Let’s keep making space for names (and stories) that matter.

All My Best,

Kendra

KW Visual Stories