Getting married is a joyous occasion, but changing your name can be a complex exercise, especially if you are meshing.
Thousands of couples are getting married and following a new trend; to blend their surnames to make one a new one. Inspired by the world of celebrity, recent deed poll figures suggest that it is not a fad and something that is set to continue, as more and more couples seek ways to make their wedding unique.
Where did meshing originate from?
Six years ago, young Americans started this practice as brides struggled to let go of their maiden name, but wanted to show their new husbands they were committed. Meshing was therefore a win-win situation for both parties.
It wasn't too long before the British had to facilitate for the new trend on their side of the Atlantic, either. Stats show that over 50,000 Britons changed their names by deed poll in 2009 alone, with strong indicators that the trend was bound to increase since then. Meshing has, in fact, become more widely accepted amongst all age groups, as it gives people the freedom to reinvent their name. It is a reflection of their unity, a name that has no history tied to it. A name that brings fresh beginnings, just like their marriage.
Why not stick with a double-barrelled name?
Double-barrelling may seem like the obvious and simplest solution, but which name comes first? That can be a decision lots of couples struggle with, plus meshing could be considered far more romantic. They get to sit down as a couple and choose a surname that they are happy with.
- Miss Mole and Mr. Timmins becomes Moltimmins
- Miss Price and Mr. Night becomes Pright
Celebrities are following suit; not too long ago, television host Dawn Porter opted to have her name changed to O'Porter after marrying Irish actor Chris O'Dowd (of Bridesmaids fame).
While double-barrelling isn't extinct, women up and down the country look for alternatives to losing their surname entirely, and meshing can be a perfect solution. No longer do women feel obliged to take their husband's name, especially when women have already established themselves in the professional world. Some women, therefore, fear they will lose their identity if they let go of their maiden name.
This is why double-barrelling was the solution for lots of professional women. They do want to amend their surname in recognition for their marriage which is why a minor adjustment such as double-barrel has been favoured in the past.
But let's not forget the men; they too are changing to a double-barrelled one, to acknowledge that the partnership is equal for both parties following their wedding day. Lots of men understand the sacrifice women are making, especially if they are the last in the family to retain their maiden name.
Are you a fan of meshing? What would your meshed name be like? Continue the conversation in the comments below!