The Name Game
We've written a lot about the lack of rules for today's newly engaged couples as they begin to plan their weddings. Some couples will stay rooted in tradition, while others will forge a road less traveled. In the ever-evolving landscape of wedding protocols, the subject of changing or keeping your last name is one that can leave many stumped.
Taking your partner's last name doesn't have to be guaranteed. Change is the only constant, and that holds for traditions around naming conventions. Gone are the days of tradition being the only option.
One evolution we see in last names is hyphenating two names together. Combining your names in this way creates a tribute to your union in an incredibly regal way! It makes you sound as though you may have royal lineage!
If hyphenating your names doesn't make sense, another option would be to keep your last name as your middle name. Keeping the connection to your history while still growing into your future is a beautiful alternative!
In keeping with kicking 'rules' to the curb, there isn't any reason why you couldn't create a new last name altogether. Think along the lines of Jailey (Justin and Hailey Bieber). You can easily 'ship' your last names together, creating a new one that signifies this new season of life together. The sky is the limit with this option!
Finally, you can always consider having your partner take on your last name. You may not be ready to part with yours, but if your partner is, there isn't anything that says this isn't an excellent course of action.
The most important thing to remember in the name game is that there are no rules around name conventions, so don't get hung up on what's happened historically and just do what is best for you and your finance!
