What's in a Name?

If you haven't already started getting the "are you changing your name" question yet - don't worry, it will come. Friends, family, neighbors, hair stylists, bankers, grocery store cashiers - anyone who notices your engagement ring will probably eventually ask you "So, are you taking his name or keeping yours?"

For some people, this is an easy decision. ("Of course, I'm keeping my name. No girl named Izzie is taking the last name Gaye.") For others, it may be a bit of a struggle. There is a desire to feel truly connected to your partner, to feel like you're moving forward as one. There is also sometimes the desire to feel like you're not losing your identity or perhaps to avoid the logistical hassle of changing your name, especially if your career revolves around the name you currently have.

Regardless, make sure to discuss the name change - or lack thereof - with your partner. A surprising number of couples have no idea where the other partner stands on this topic - even when the ceremony is closing in on them! You want to make sure this discussion is fully decided before having awkward conversations in front of guests asking this question (and they will) at your reception.

Whatever decision you make, inform your family and wedding party. They will be able to help spread the word to guests - to avoid your having to answer the same question again and again, as well as avoiding receiving gift checks with the wrong name on the "to" line. (Even if you do get checks with the incorrect names on the "to" line, don't worry - if you take your marriage certificate to the bank, your banker will be able to figure out a way for you to deposit those checks.)