HOMELas Vegas Weddings Keeping Your Maiden Name
Today's bride has the choice of keeping her maiden name, taking her husband's name, or choosing from other options. For many brides this decision requires thoughtful consideration regarding career, family and financial situations.
KEEPING YOUR MAIDEN NAME - Women who have established a professional career using their maiden name may choose to continue using that name. This is perfectly acceptable and legal in forty-nine states. Hawaii, the exception, requires that a woman declare her married name when signing the marriage license.
USING BOTH NAMES - It is possible for a woman to use her maiden name at work and career related functions, yet legally take her husband's surname. The other option is to use the husband's name for social and family purposes, and legally keep her maiden name.
HYPHENATING YOUR NAME - This option requires a hyphen after the bride's maiden name followed by her husband's surname. (Sandra Smith becomes Sandra Smith-Fisher.)
CHANGING YOUR NAME - Women opting to change their name both socially and legally, should address this matter upon returning from the honeymoon. A request should be made for a separate credit history to be maintained under the bride's maiden name. It is wise for a woman to keep one or two credit cards under her maiden name to maintain a credit rating in the event she is widowed or divorced.