UN FIL TER ED

Here at Style HQ, we like to keep things real. Whether it’s real-world politics that’s sparked an in-office debate or social norms we’re questioning. Consider this series off the record, to be (at times) taken with a grain of salt, and of course, completely unfiltered.

By OLIVA ASHWORTH

Tradition dictates that the majority of women take their husband’s last name when it comes to TYING

THE KNOT,

most of the time without a second thought. I do or I don’t, in a growing progressive world it’s not surprising that people are beginning to push back on tradition. We took things to our HQ, asking our very own, WOULD YOU, or have you taken your fiancé’s last name? And more importantly, WHY?

Boston // Photographer

As a single male with no marriage plans on the immediate horizon, I strangely have often thought about whether I’d want my partner to take my last name. Would I double barrel our surnames or even create a whole new combined name? Nowadays the options are endless. Whichever way I think about it, I always come to the same conclusion – a name is something so personal and carries with it a family history, and to change it is a big decision. Every couple is different and what may work for some, may not for others. I believe as long as both partners come together and agree on what works for them, that is the way to go. Shakespeare did say after all, a rose by any other name is still as sweet!

Bridget // Production Manager

94 days (who’s counting though) and I sure will be! Growing up in quite a ‘traditional’ household, I had never really questioned whether I would take my future husband’s surname until I got engaged last year and everyone started asking me. The more people I spoke to, the more I realised how common it’s becoming to keep your own name. After considering and appreciating aspects of both sides, I’ve decided I will be taking his name to begin our life together and start a family unit. In saying all of this, I must admit the superficial side of me can’t promise that I would’ve if I didn’t like his surname...

Astrid // Deputy Digital Editor

My name is incredibly important to me, being a journalist, and I didn’t want to lose this identity when I got married, so I never took my husband’s name. My family name also comes with a lot of history from WWII. My great grandmother made up the name ‘Taemets’ when her family fled Estonia to hide their true identity from the Russians. It means ‘forest brother’ as they spent several months living in the forest with other civilians, who formed a community. My heritage and family story are significant and I’m very sentimental about it. I could never lose that part of me.