I came across a frantic post from a newly married bride who was seeking assistance from "anyone" who could help. She was recently married and leaving for her honeymoon. However she made a major mistake and one that could jeopardize her trip. She booked her reservations in her new married name before she had legally changed her name.
She was now frantically contacting the county she was married in to get the status of her marriage certificate so she could begin the name change process. As much as I understand the excitement of taking your husbands name, she should have been patient and waited until after her honeymoon to start using her new name.
Modern day travel by air, train or cruise ship is more difficult than ever and to have your travel documents such as passport, driver's license or Visas reflect conflicting information guarantees you'll be bumped out of the security line and sent packing back home. And it's become even more difficult as of October, 2009 with the advent of birthdates, middle names and gender being required.
So to those ladies who can't wait to use your husbands last name, be patient, make the change legally and then enjoy your future together as Mr and Mrs. Otherwise you may just end honeymooning at home.
Look for name change documents and requirements from your local county office and be certain to check and double check all spellings before booking your travel. If you need help, call me at Fete Perfection for more information.
Happy Trails...Amy

