Tip: The Name Game—Are you a name-dropper or not?

What to do with your name? Today, things are quite different from years ago. We have seen it all today and want to accommodate all styles.

When in doubt, it is always socially correct to rely on tradition which would be "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith". Even if you keep your maiden name or are the modern-day woman that must have her name on everything, please be somewhat forgiving. Etiquette states this is always acceptable when in doubt in a social situation.

If you feel strongly that your maiden name is tied in with your professional identity, then you might opt not to make the change. Or you could go by one identity by day (your maiden name) and another by night (your married name). The third option is to just go ahead and change it.

If you decide to keep your name and you plan to have children, how will you feel about having a different last name? This is just something to think about.

Consider all your choices:

• Pass your maiden name on—If you decide to switch, use your maiden name as your first child's middle name.
• Have it all—Use a hyphen to link your name with your hubby's.
• Call in a sub—Take the traditional path, but use your maiden name as your middle name.
• Get creative—Try combining part of your last name with part of his and see what you come up with.
• Be ultra-modern—It might be a long shot, but what if your husband took your last name? It couldn't hurt to ask.

Now you will be ready to make it legitimate. First you have to receive your certified certificate of marriage registration in the mail. A certificate of marriage registration is considered a legal document, and you can use it to change your name.

If you opt for something a little different, like creating a new last name, you will most likely have to fill out a Name Change Packet in addition to an Application to Marry. Once you complete the additional paperwork, a judge will decide whether or not to grant your name change, and issue a Final Judgment of Name Change.

Who to Notify and What to Bring:

• Social Security: Certified Certificate of Marriage Registration or Final Judgment of Name Change and Photo ID.
• Employer: Requirements vary; call your Human Resources Department
• DMV: Certified Certificate of Marriage Registration or Final Judgment of Name Change, Current Driver's License
• Passport Agency: Completed DS-19 form, Certified Certificate of Marriage Registration or Final Judgment of Name Change, Current Passport.
• Banks: Certified Certificate of Marriage Registration or Final Judgment of Name Change, Photo ID.
• Investment Firms: Completed Name Change Form, copy of Certified Certificate of Marriage Registration or Final Judgment of Name Change.
• Doctors and Insurance Companies: Requirements vary; call to find out.

Whatever you decide, we know it will be right for you.

And most of all, have fun and...
Stay Organized...

Fondly,
Marlene

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