There are many factors to consider when you're choosing a name for your baby-to-be. To many parents, the history behind a name is important. Others look for names with inspiring meanings or namesakes. Still others look to cultures they admire or hale from when choosing a baby name. If you have Italian heritage, or even just have a fondness for the culture, choosing an Italian baby name is a choice you won't regret.

Although I'm not from Italy, my husband's family is. When we were choosing a name for our youngest daughter we knew we wanted a name that paid tribute to his family's history. Choosing from a multitude of gorgeous names wasn't easy, but I love the name we ended up choosing and love the fact that it contains a bit of our family's history.

Italian names are elegant, decadent, and classic, much like the culture they originate from. Although many Italian names are popular in America (like Bella, Mia, Anthony... you get the picture) there are many more "traditionally" Italian names that aren't as common overseas yet.

The beauty of these elaborate names is that they can be paired with a more common name as a middle name to give them a sense of balance. Similarly, most of these names have great potential for multiple nicknames. Others still can stand on their own perfectly. Whether your family is from Italy or you're just drawn to the culture, choosing an Italian baby name could be the perfect choice for your baby.