Double Barrelled Surnames have been gaining popularity in the UK. For some, it’s a way to keep both surnames after getting married. For others, it can be seen as a way of hyphenating two different cultures together. Whatever the reason, you should know a few things before taking on a Double Barrelled Surname. Keep these six factors in mind before making the final decision.
How Will It Sound?
A Double Barrelled Surname can often sound different, especially when you say it out loud. If you’re planning on keeping your maiden name as one of the surnames, you’ll have to say your full name a lot. This can be confusing for people, especially if your surname is common.
If you’re not planning on keeping your maiden name, you’ll have to choose a surname that flows well with your first name. For example, if your name is Sarah Smith, you might want to consider a Double Barrelled Surname like Sarah Jones-Smith.
Will You Have to Change Your Name legally?
In the UK, you can simply start using a Double Barrelled Surname without changing your name legally. However, there are certain situations where creating a double barrel surname is required, such as getting a new passport or driving license. If you’re unsure whether or not you need to legally change your name, it’s always best to check with the relevant authorities.
How Will it Affect Your Family?
If you have children, then they will automatically get your Double Barrelled Surname. This can be confusing for them, especially if they have a different surname at school. You might also find that your family members don’t use your Double Barrelled Surname, which can be frustrating. If you have a partner, they might not want to take on your Double Barrelled Surname. With proper communication, this problem shouldn’t come in your way of adopting a Double Barrelled Surname.
How Will it Affect Your Career?
Your career can be affected in some ways if you adopt a Double Barrelled Surname. For example, if you’re planning to go into academia, you might find that your publications are listed under two different names. This can be confusing for people trying to look up your work. You might also find that potential employers are put off by your Double Barrelled Surname, as it can make you seem unprofessional. But if you are clear with your name usage in the documents, this shouldn’t be a problem.
Are You Prepared for the Teasing?
Unfortunately, you might find that people aren’t comfortable with your Double Barrelled Surname. This is more likely to happen if your surname is unusual or if it’s difficult to pronounce. People might also assume that you’re pretentious or trying to be fancy. However, in most cases, this is temporary. People usually stop teasing or finding such names odd once they are used to them.
Are You Sure It’s the Right Decision?
Adopting a Double Barrelled Surname is not a bad move, but we suggest you think it through. You must be sure you’re prepared for the implications of taking on a Double Barrelled Surname. Consider all of the factors carefully before making your final decision.
Final Word
As discussed above, Double Barrelled Surnames can be a great way to keep both surnames after getting married or to hyphenate two different cultures together.
Adopting a double-barrelled surname isn’t a major undertaking, but it is something you should think about. As long as you’re comfortable and satisfied with the name, things will be fine. We hope the factors discussed above will help you in your decision-making process.
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