My name originates from arabic and it means heaven. Jenna was derived from many other names that all mean soft, white, blessed, and fair. Jenna reminds me of a cloud. Light and airy. There’s still richness or depth to the name. But not so it’s overpowering. Not too harsh. 

It’s the name of a little girl who has no cares in the world. Sweet and innocent, but so naive for what’s to come. Jenna is a pet name for Guinevere which was derived from the Welsh Gwenhwyfar who was married to a king. Basically, my name is royalty. 

There is no story behind my name. There’s no special meaning or importance. It’s just a name my parents saw in one of those baby books and decided they liked it. They didn’t want me to have the same name as 10 other people in my class. I am also the third child. This means that Jenna was my parents third favorite name.

Jenna reminds me of a light, relaxed person. They don’t fear their responsibilities. They just go with life as it comes. That’s not me. I tend to avoid my responsibilities until the very last moment. But I also stay hopeful about the future. My name is like pink cotton candy--thrilling and unexpected. 

Many people ask me if my name is short for something. It’s not. Not Jennifer or Genevieve. Genevieve reminds me of a strong, independent, powerful woman. A woman who lives for herself and no one else. My parents like to call it sassy, but I prefer assertive. Maybe my name is where I get it from. Feeling the authority given to me by my royal name. 

I wouldn’t ever want to be named Genevie though. It’s too old. It reminds me of someone who only remembers what is was like to be strong. The name Jennifer reminds me of a stressed mom. I don’t want to have the name of a mom who has aged beyond her years due to her kids. 

I’ve never wanted a different name. I like how there aren’t 10 others with the same name as me. It’s not unique though. Just like a little girl afraid to finally have responsibilities. Afraid she might mess up, so she avoids everyone and everything as best as she can. Innocent yet wants nothing more than to have fun.