“Why One Woman’s Bold Stand Against Tradition Could Change Marriage Forever”
“Some don’t have a strong family bond, so they are happy to move on with a new name,” Kate noted. “If you have children, it is definitely easier to all have the same name. You’ll have to sometimes prove you are married and therefore carry your marriage certificate (definitely when traveling with children who don’t have the same name as you).”
“Everyone must be happy with the decision, as you cannot start a marriage with resentment”
“Legal applications become awkward – for example, power of attorney forms, mortgage applications become harder if you don’t have the same name,” Kate continued. “Society expects you to have the same name.”
“The biggest con (that I don’t see as a con, really) is that your husband won’t be happy,” the wedding expert added. “Remember, society has told him his whole life that his wife will take on his name, so this change can seem like a hard pill to swallow.”
Next, we asked Kate for any advice that she would give to women who are on the fence about taking their husband’s last name.
“Firstly, talk to your partner and share your concerns, remembering my point that they may well be offended,” she noted. “Have a clear reason why, but also other options to hand. Some couples now make up a whole new name, merging the two. There is no right answer here – you will know deep down if you look forward to taking their name.”
“I also feel that if your partner knows your views on feminist issues, they shouldn’t be too surprised,” Kate added. “But remember it is the norm to take your husband’s name, so even if he is an ally, he may find it hard to understand.”
