I think it is okay. Usable.
I'd rather see it as a full name, like
Beth, than as a nn for
Elizabeth. Seems less artificial that way, and less baby-talkish. It's very much like
Beth, IMO.
It's probably not headed for popularity, anyway. Due to cow/matronly associations, I guess, esp.
Bessie. Doesn't even have the retro vibe that
Betty does. But hey, if
Harriet and
Matilda and
Florence and
Clementine can come back, why the hell not
Bess?
- mirfak