“Why One Woman’s Bold Stand Against Tradition Could Change Marriage Forever”
The wedding expert says another common reason women change their surnames is when they have children together before getting married.
“Wanting everyone to have the same surname creates a sense of unity, but it is also easier when traveling,” Kate pointed out. “I once had customs interviewing my children, as their passports had different surnames to mine. This was before we were married, so when we did tie the knot, it felt easier to change my name to be the same as theirs.”
“If you have children, it is definitely easier to all have the same name”
Many marriages nowadays also occur later in life, meaning the bride might currently be using an ex-husband’s surname, Kate added. “They will be keen to change it!”
“Of course, you can merge both names to create a double-barreled surname. But for this to work, the husband needs to change his,” the wedding expert shared. “And funnily enough, he is not always open to that. Many also feel a double-barreled name sounds a bit ‘posh’, which feels wrong to them.”
So what are some of the pros of keeping your maiden name after getting married?
“Keep a sense of identity – women can feel a bit lost after getting married,” Kate says. “Continue your family name – great if you have a strong family bond. Less paperwork. (I have been married 12 years and still have some bills in my maiden name, as I can’t be bothered to jump through hoops!) Easier for work and business, as people know who you are.”
On the flip side, however, some people see more benefits in taking their partner’s name.
