By: Savannah Craig
There are seemingly one million different questions to answer and decisions to be made while planning a wedding.
You have to make a decision on everything from what types of flowers you want, to who will be invited.
As a dentist, doctor, or someone who holds a professional license or publication you have one more decision to make about whether to change your name following your wedding.
As a Dentist, Should You Change Your Name After Marriage?
The decision about whether to change your name is an incredibly personal decision.
However, as with many aspects of wedding planning, people will want to share their opinion with you.
There are many things to consider.
A name can hold a lot of meaning to a person, their family of origin, or to the new family they are creating with their marriage.
I encourage you to discuss this decision with your future spouse and not allow anyone to pressure you one way or the other.
Remember that this is your life and your future.
You can do things however works best for you, even if it’s not traditional. You can keep your name, take your spouse’s name, or make up a brand-new last name for both of you.
The options are endless, and the only right answer is what is right for you.
My Decision as a Dentist about Changing My Name After Marriage
Personally, I’ve decided to keep my last name after I get married.
I’ve wanted to be a dentist for as long as I can remember, even since I was a little kid.
My last name was part of that vision, so keeping my name was important to me.
Additionally, it was a logistical decision. The idea of changing all my legal documents, including my diploma and license sounded too stressful to me.
There are also fees associated with changing those documents.
My fiancé was very understanding about this decision. Socially, I have no problem with people calling me by his last name and I think it may be nice to have some separation from my professional and personal life.
Make the Right Decision for You
Whatever decision you make, follow your gut.
Do not let anyone sway you or impose their opinions on you. This is one step towards your future as a married couple.
Photo by TranStudios Photography & Video
