Will you be changing your surname when you marry your partner like Sophie Habboo has recently done, or do you prefer to keep you own?
Sophie Habboo surprised her husband Jamie Laing on their first anniversary this week by reading a poem she had written on paper for him, which concluded with the revelation that she has legally changed her surname to his.
During the latest episode of their podcast Newlyweds, Sophie couldn’t broke down in tears as she revealed to Jamie that she is now officially, ‘Mrs Sophie Laing’.
She also mentioned that she didn’t know how her dad would feel. Sophie and her sister Georgia don’t have any brothers to carry on the family name, so often in scenarios like this some women do choose to keep their surname so that it doesn’t get lost.
While 90% of women do choose to change to their marital name, those that don’t do so for many reasons. For example, they may not want the hassle of changing it legally, they may prefer to use their own surname for professional purposes or possibly hyphenate both their maiden name and their partners surname. In some instances if a partner’s surname isn’t as attractive as their own they may choose to retain their own surname.
What was also interesting was Jamie’s reaction to the change, he was completely shocked and didn’t have any problem with Sophie retaining her own surname, but it ‘meant the world to him’ that she changed it. Gone are the days when men would have demanded the name change or been offended had it not be done!
To keep or not to keep?
If you are considering whether or not to take your partner’s surname when you marry, there are several arguments for and against this decision.
Arguments in favour of taking your partner’s surname include the desire to show unity and commitment as a couple. Many people view sharing a surname as a symbol of togetherness and a way to signify their bond in a traditional manner. Taking your partner’s surname can also simplify matters such as legal documents, family events, and social interactions, as it can avoid confusion and streamline processes.
On the other hand, there are arguments against taking your partner’s surname. Some individuals may feel that changing theirs erases their own identity and history. They may have built a career or personal brand under their current name and changing it could cause confusion or disrupt their professional reputation. Additionally, some people may feel that the tradition of women taking their husband’s surname perpetuates outdated gender norms and reinforces patriarchal structures.
Ultimately, the decision to take your partner’s surname when you marry is a personal one that should be made based on what feels right for you and your relationship. It’s important to have open and honest discussions with your partner about your feelings on the matter and come to a decision that aligns with both of your values and beliefs. Whether you choose to take your partner’s surname, keep your own, hyphenate, or create a new one together, what matters most is that the decision is made thoughtfully and respectfully.
