Congratulations, newlyweds! You’re off to start your life together by building wonderful memories, a family, and a home, to name a few. But before all that, one of the things that you should immediately address is the paperwork, the most obvious one being whether you should change your last name or not. Is it mandatory? The answer is: nope! It’s a common decision to change your last name, but it’s ultimately your choice whether you do so or not. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of making this change? Read on to find out!

Taking your husband’s last name is generally seen as default and traditional in the Philippines. It also fulfills your younger self’s dreams when you doodled Mrs. [insert your crush’s name here] on your diary or notebook during class. This isn’t just for the romance though, there are practical benefits to it.

Legalities are easier. There are some instances when it is necessary to prove your marriage with your husband. Having the same last name will definitely make everything faster since most will assume that it makes sense for you to do that.

It establishes a sense of familial identity. You and your would-be family are one unit now, and for some, it’s appealing that you all have the same last name.

Admittedly, this is not a popular option, but just in case this thought has passed through your head, don’t think that you’re weird! It also raises awareness that women don’t have to be pressured to do this if they really don’t want to–changing your last name isn’t the foundation of your marriage.

It’s your brand. Sometimes, ladies don’t want to change their names because it’s business or profession-related. Your name is strongly tied to your brand, and you don’t want to lose that. That’s okay!

Your hubby’s last name sounds a bit awkward paired with your name. Kinda funny, but you totally have grounds not to change your name if you’re not comfy with how it sounds like! Remember, it’s not required–it’s your choice. And this shouldn’t make your hubby love you less!

Your maiden name is unique. Conversely, you have a lot of love and history with your current name. For you, it establishes a sense of identity, has a great story behind it, or you’re just attached to this part of you. Don’t let go of it if you don’t want to.

Hyphenating or appending his last name after yours can also be good idea. You get to keep your name and add his–it’s a win-win! You then can decide if the kids can take his or also hyphenate. The only downside would be having a very long name, but if you can live with that, then go for it.

Maybe he can change his last name! All the pros and cons stated above can also apply to the groom too, so if you guys both prefer one surname over the other and he wants to change it, then why not? It’s not a common practice here in the Philippines, but if you think about it, it’s the same banana, really.

Maybe it’s a lot to think about, or maybe you already know your choice to begin with, but it’s nice to be aware that you do have options, brides! Cheers to being a Mrs.!