by Ammie Gaylor - Marquee Services Officiant | Minister
You've said your "I Do's" and are now pronounced: Married! Congratulations! One of you may wish to change your name, and that is lovely! It is also a long-standing tradition in the United States. There is a little-known fact, though, that this is a tradition that originated in English common law. In an article by Stephanie Reid from her blog article entitled "The History Behind Maiden vs. Married Names", she states:
"...the doctrine of changing one's name did not surface in English law until the ninth century." Ms. Reid continues, "... the doctrine of coverture emerged – and women were thereafter considered “one” with their husbands and therefore required to assume the husband’s surname as their own.
Under the concept of coverture, which literally means “covered by,” women had no independent legal identity apart from their spouse. Actually, this “coverage” began upon the birth of a female baby – who was given her father’s surname – and could only change upon the marriage of that female, at which point her name was automatically changed to that of her new husband." The blog article shares quite a bit more interesting facts, and can be found here in its entirety: The History Behind Maiden Vs. Married Names.
It is worth mentioning that in same-sex marriages, it is common for one spouse to decide to take on the other spouse's surname. This can be seen as a beautiful gesture when chosen to do so!
So what about you? Yes: you have decided to uphold the age-old custom and adopt your spouse's surname. No need to worry! Here is a checklist to help you begin the process of changing your name thoroughly and lawfully.
File Your Marriage License and Get Certified Copies Note: You can ask your officiant to do this for you! Often, this service is included!
Update Your Social Security Card
Get A New Driver's License
Get A New Passport
Change Your Last Name on Bank Accounts
Update Your Credit Cards
Notify Your Employer
Alert Your Insurance Companies
Update your Rent, Mortgage and Utilities
Review Any Auto-Pay Accounts
While these tasks may not be the most exciting part of planning your wedding, if you decide to take your spouse's name, this list can help you complete them more efficiently and smoothly!
Once finished, you can feel relieved: you did it! Your new name has been officially established, allowing you to proceed on your marital journey with the assurance that everything is legally in order.
Are you still in the early planning phases? Marquee Services llc would love to assist you with all of your officiating needs! Book Your Free 30-Minute Consultation today!
Comments