Hitchswitch-Blog

Tag: name change service

How to Handle Family Wedding Planning Opinions?
How to Handle Family Wedding Planning Opinions?

When you get engaged, you expect to hear congratulations, see happy tears, and maybe get a few ideas for your big day. What you might not expect is how many of those “ideas” turn into strong opinions, and how different they can be depending on which side of the family they’re coming from. From menu suggestions to guest list debates, even well-intentioned input can feel overwhelming. Differing opinions don’t have to derail your wedding planning or cause rifts between loved ones. With clear priorities, open communication, and a willingness to find a middle ground, you and your partner can navigate these conversations while staying true to your vision.

Set Priorities as a Couple

Before you start fielding everyone’s opinions, you and your partner need to agree on what matters most to you both. Sit down together early in the planning process and make a list of your top priorities; these could be anything from venue style to the guest experience to budget boundaries. When you have a shared understanding of your “non-negotiables,” it’s much easier to evaluate suggestions from family without losing sight of what’s most important. For example, if you both agree that keeping the guest list small is key, it’s easier to address pressure to invite distant relatives.

Communicate Effectively with Family
- Clear and respectful communication can prevent a lot of misunderstandings. When discussing wedding plans with your families:
  - Be proactive – Share updates and decisions before they have to ask, so they feel included rather than left out.
  - Use “we” language – Phrases like “We’ve decided…” or “We feel…” make it clear you’re united as a couple and prevent the appearance that one person is making all the calls.
  - Acknowledge their input – Even if you don’t take their advice, thanking them for sharing their thoughts shows respect and keeps the conversation positive.
  - Stay calm under pressure – If a conversation gets heated, it’s okay to take a break and revisit the topic later.
Find Compromises

Compromise doesn’t mean giving up what matters most to you — it means finding creative ways to honor your vision while still respecting the people who love you. The first step is to revisit your priorities as a couple and identify where you’re willing to bend. If having a specific ceremony location is your non-negotiable, perhaps you can be more flexible about the menu, music, or décor style.

It can also help to think about the “why” behind a family member’s request. If a parent is insisting on inviting certain relatives, it may not be about numbers but about wanting to maintain relationships or honor traditions. Understanding the motivation gives you more room to offer an alternative solution — like inviting them to a welcome dinner or a separate celebration — that still meets their underlying need.

Handle Cultural or Generational Differences

When families come from different cultural backgrounds or hold different values, some disagreements may go deeper than color schemes or song choices. In these cases, it helps to approach discussions with curiosity and empathy. Ask why certain traditions are important and share why some aspects may not fit your vision. Understanding the “why” behind a request often makes it easier to find respectful solutions, and sometimes, you’ll discover beautiful traditions you’d like to include.

Set Boundaries with Kindness

Not every suggestion can be accommodated, and that’s okay. The key is to be firm without being hurtful. If someone insists on an idea that doesn’t align with your plans, you can respond with:
- “We’ve given it a lot of thought, and this is what works best for us.”
- “We really appreciate your suggestion, but we’re going in a different direction.”
Boundaries are healthiest when they’re communicated clearly and early, before emotions build up.

Stay United as a Couple

Above all, remember that this is your wedding! Presenting a united front with your partner not only helps you manage family input but also sets a tone for your future together. Support each other during difficult conversations and celebrate the wins along the way, whether that’s securing your dream venue or finding a compromise everyone’s happy with.

Involve Families in Meaningful Ways

Sometimes tension builds simply because loved ones feel left out of the process. Giving each family member a specific role or task can help channel their energy into something productive and give them a sense of pride in contributing to your special day. You might invite a parent to help choose a song for the ceremony, ask an aunt to be in charge of the dessert table, or involve a sibling in organizing transportation for guests. These contributions don’t have to be major to feel meaningful. When family members see their ideas and efforts reflected in the celebration, they’re more likely to feel heard, valued, and connected to the day — even if not every detail aligns with their original vision.

This celebration is a beautiful start to your new life together, and when it’s all over, we at HitchSwitch can help with the next step: the name change. It’s the easiest way to start your new chapter. For more tips check out the HitchSwitch Blog.
2 days ago
How to Change Your Name On Your Social Security Card After Divorce? | 2025
How to Change Your Name On Your Social Security Card After Divorce? | 2025

Navigating a divorce can be a complex journey, often involving a lot of administrative tasks. As you embark on this new chapter, one of the most crucial first steps for updating your identity is learning how to change your name on your Social Security card after divorce. This seemingly small step is the foundation for updating all your other important documents, like your driver’s license and passport. That’s where HitchSwitch comes in!

While the Social Security Administration (SSA) encourages using their online tools to start the process, it’s important to note that for a name change due to divorce, you will typically need to complete the process in person or by mail. The online portal helps you understand requirements and schedule an appointment at a local office. For an in-depth outline of the name change process, click here to check out our guide.

How to Change Your Name On Your Social Security Card After Divorce?

For name changes after divorce, the SSA generally requires you to complete the process either in person or by mail. Here’s how to navigate it:
- Start Online (Optional, but Recommended for Guidance)
  - Click here to access the official SSA name change questionnaire.
  - Based on your answers, the SSA’s online tool will clarify the specific documents you need and guide you to schedule an appointment.
- Gather The Following Documents: To successfully change your name on your Social Security card after divorce, you’ll typically need to provide the following documents.
  - Your Original or Certified Divorce Decree or Court Order: This is the official legal proof of your name change. It’s vital that your divorce decree explicitly states your name reverting to your former or maiden name. If it doesn’t, you may need a separate court order for a legal name change.
  - Proof of Identity: A valid, unexpired government-issued identification document in your current name. This could be your driver’s license, state-issued ID, or U.S. passport.
  - Proof of U.S. Citizenship (if not already established with the SSA): This could be your U.S. Birth Certificate or U.S. Passport. While you might have provided this when you first got your Social Security number, the SSA may request it again to confirm.
  - A completed SS-5 form, the Application for a Social Security Card. (HitchSwitch provides this pre-filled as part of your personalized package!)
Important note: Your Social Security number itself will not change, only your name. The SSA requires original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies, even notarized ones, are not accepted. All documents are returned to you.

Submit Your Application

Once you have completed your form and all required original or certified documents, you can submit your application:
- In Person: Take your completed SS-5 form and all original or certified documents to your nearest SSA office. This option ensures your documents are reviewed on the spot and typically offers the quickest processing time for the new card once submitted. You can schedule an appointment through the SSA’s online tool to reduce wait times.
- By Mail: Mail your completed SS-5 form and all original or certified documents to your nearest SSA office. Be sure to use a secure, trackable mailing service. While convenient, this method is a longer process.
Simplify Your Name Change with HitchSwitch:

Navigating the various forms, specific requirements, and acceptable documents for a name change after divorce can feel overwhelming. That’s where HitchSwitch shines! We understand the complexities of how to change your name on your Social Security card after divorce. Our service streamlines the entire process, providing you with:
- Personalized, Pre-filled Forms: We take the guesswork out of paperwork, including the SS-5 form, tailored specifically for a name change after divorce.
- Easy-to-Follow, State-Specific Instructions: We guide you through each step, ensuring you have the correct documents and information for your unique situation, whether you choose to visit an office or mail your application.
- Time-Saving Convenience: We handle the research and form preparation, freeing you up to focus on your new beginning.
3 months ago
How To Change Your Name On Your Passport After Marriage? | 2025
How To Change Your Name On Your Passport After Marriage? 2025 | Guide

Congratulations! You’ve tied the knot, celebrated with loved ones, and are now embarking on married life. While you’re basking in the post-wedding glow, there’s one crucial step many newlyweds need to tackle: updating your identification documents, starting with your passport.

Having a passport that matches your new legal name is absolutely key for seamless international travel. Imagine booking flights, cruise reservations, and hotels under your new name, only to arrive at the airport with a passport showing your old one – a recipe for unnecessary stress! Let HitchSwitch help you navigate this process smoothly.

If you have existing international travel plans booked under your former name, it’s crucial to wait until you’ve returned home before starting the passport name change process. Similarly, if you plan to book tickets within the next 2-3 months, we generally recommend booking those tickets in your former name to avoid potential issues with immediate travel. Your passport must be valid and match the name on your ticket exactly; any discrepancies can lead to denied boarding. Passport processing and shipment take anywhere from 4-8 weeks (more information below).

For an in-depth outline of the name change process, please click here to check out our guide.

So, how do you change your name on your passport after Marriage in 2025?

Determine Which Passport Form You Need

The U.S. Department of State uses different forms depending on when your current passport was issued. Knowing which form applies to you is the first step:
- DS-82 Form: Use this form if your passport was issued more than one year ago. This is a standard renewal form. You can use this form even if your passport has expired as long as you were at least 16 years old when your most recent passport was issued, and it was issued less than 15 years ago.
- DS-5504 Form: Use this form if your passport was issued less than one year ago. This form is specifically for making a change (like a name change after marriage) on a recently issued passport.
- DS-11 Form: This is typically the application for a first-time passport. You’ll also use this form if your previous passport was lost, stolen, or severely damaged, or if you don’t meet the specific requirements for using the DS-82 or DS-5504 forms (for example, if you were under 16 when your last passport was issued, or if it was issued more than 15 years ago).
You will submit the completed passport form, your original or a certified copy of your marriage certificate, passport photo,

What You’ll Need to Submit

Regardless of the form you use, you’ll generally need to provide the following to change your name on your passport after marriage:
- Completed Passport Form: The DS-82, DS-5504, or DS-11, accurately filled out and signed.
- Your Current U.S. Passport: This is your most recent passport book. It will be returned to you in a separate mailing from your new passport.
- Original or Certified Marriage Certificate
- One Color Passport Photo: This photo must be recent (taken within the last six months) and meet all U.S. Department of State passport photo requirements (2×2 inches, plain white or off-white background, no glasses, etc.).
- Applicable Fees:
  - DS-82: Typically $130 for a passport book (or $190 total for expedited service).
  - DS-5504: Generally, no fee for routine service, unless you request expedited processing ($60).
  - DS-11: Typically $130 for a passport book, plus an additional acceptance facility fee (if applicable).
  - Note: Fees are subject to change by the U.S. Department of State.
Understand Processing Times

It’s important to be aware of the estimated processing times when changing your name on your passport after marriage:
- Routine Processing: The standard timeframe is typically 4 to 6 weeks.
- Expedited Processing: If you have upcoming travel and need your passport sooner, you can pay an additional $60 fee to expedite the process. This usually shortens the timeframe to 2 to 4 weeks.
- Important Note: Processing times are measured from the date your application is received by the State Department, not the date you mail it.
- Don’t Forget Global Entry & TSA PreCheck! For our frequent flyers, updating your passport is just the first step. In order to maintain those smooth airport experiences, you’ll also need to update your Global Entry and TSA PreCheck cards with your new name. The good news is that updating these is typically free of charge unless your card has expired.
Feeling Overwhelmed by the Paperwork?
- Don’t let paperwork overwhelm you—take control of the process and ensure everything is for your new chapter together. HitchSwitch simplifies the entire name change process, providing you with the exact forms you need, pre-filled with your information where possible, along with detailed instructions for each step. We help you understand which passport form to use and guide you through gathering the necessary documents, taking the guesswork out of the process. The HitchSwitch Platinum and Platinum Plus packages can handle your name change paperwork and include a passport photo redeemable through the app.
- Manage your passport needs effortlessly with the Passport Now App.
4 months ago
7 Most Underrated TV Shows to Binge Watch on Netflix Right Now

I have a love-hate relationship with Netflix. It’s great for days off and late nights, but why oh why must there be hundreds of shows and movies to choose from? I spend more time picking a show than I do watching it, and I know for a fact I’m not alone in this. At some point, you feel like you’ve watched everything even though the choices are truly endless.

If you’ve got some extra time on your hands, we’ve got the complete list of shows that will have you laughing, crying, and utterly mesmerized.

Money Heist

Why no one is talking about this show and getting excited that the third season is coming out, I’ll never know. La Casa De Papel (The Paper House/Money Heist) is a show that will leave you at the edge of your couch. Yes, it is in Spanish, but that should not stop you from turning on those subtitles and enjoying one of the most incredible shows of our time (yes, it’s that serious).

Film Daily

According to Forbes, the show became the number one foreign language TV series on the streaming platform in 2018.

Eight thieves, with the help of a criminal mastermind, break into The Royal Mint of Spain and attempt to print over 2.4 billion Euros. If the show is not on your list, you better brush up fast because the third part is right around the corner.

Alias Grace

Another show based off of real events.

Channel Binge

If you are a bookworm, then you must read the book that this show is based on. MUST. Margaret Atwood’s literacy will immerse you in a world of scandal and tragedy. Grace Marks is the main character who is an Irish immigrant whose whole life has been nothing but hardship and difficulty. When serving under her employer, Thomas Kinnear, she is accused of murdering him and his mistress/housekeeper, Nancy Montgomery. Even though she could have been proven innocent, she is imprisoned for life and creates a reputation for herself as one of the most infamous women at the time.

Peaky Blinders

If you’re not swearing like a sailor with a British accent or smoking a cigar by the end of this show, get back to me. Based on a true story of a violent gang who had razors sewn into their hats and had control over major cities back in the 1890s. One of the most underrated shows on Netflix due to what I believe is incredibly poor advertisement.

Metro

Follow Thomas Shelby as he gradually takes over Birmingham, England after World War I. Filled with action, thrills, tears, sex, humor, and most importantly, the importance of family in the worst of times; this show is a must add to your list.

One Day at a Time

How often is it you find a sitcom with a Cuban family being in the spotlight? Rarely to never. Penelope is an Army veteran who is raising her two kids alone after divorcing from their alcoholic father. The show follows each one of them as they struggle to fit in, discover who they are, and face world issues that are rarely mentioned in today’s shows.

Variety

These issues include homophobia, PTSD, LGBT, racism, and sexuality. No matter how serious a subject gets, you won’t want to stop watching this heartwarming show that will have you begging for more.

Santa Clarita Diet

If you’re a fan of the show iZombie or zombies in general, then you are going to love this! Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant work together to give us comedy gold. The married couple were leading healthy and normal lives until a vomit explosion leaves Sheila (Drew) craving human flesh.

The Verge

As she tries her best not to murder on impulse and eat anyone, her husband works hard to find out what caused the virus and if there’s a cure.

The OA

Imagine belonging to a wealthy Russian family, dying and drowning, coming back from the dead newly blinded, shipped halfway across the world, getting adopted, growing up with nightmares and visions, then disappearing for seven years before finally coming back with your vision restored.

Wired

Honestly, The OA had me confused for the first couple episodes, but when you mix Sci-Fi with Fantasy and Brit Marling, then you’ve got a show worth watching over and over again.

Grace and Frankie

Two elderly women are left by their gay husbands…for each other. If that wasn’t bad enough, they have nowhere to stay but with each other. Not knowing where life will take them now, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin form a bond that one can only describe as unbreakable.

Indie Wire

The show is filled with so much love, humor, friendship, and marijuana, that you will feel a need to keep watching and figure out what’s next for the unlikely couple.

June 12, 2019
Game of Thrones Character Development over the past 8 Seasons

Here at HitchSwitch, we know the significant value behind a name. Whether it’s a name given to us at birth, a name we’ve chosen for ourself, or a name we’ve taken from our partner, we know a name is a whole identity. It is how people come to know us, to identify us, and to remember us. The value a name holds goes beyond the characters it consists of. A great example of the importance of name can be found in HBO’s Game of Thrones, where a character’s House name says everything about them.

According to HBO, the most epic fantasy show ever created has gathered a staggering 17.4 million viewers on the night of its premiere, breaking any previous records it held! If you’ve seen GoT news, memes, or spoilers all over your feed and have yet to watch the Emmy award-winning show, then you seriously need to get on it now.

The show’s power to trigger all emotions has left its audience invested and engaged. Since the first season aired in 2011, people from all over the world watched as their favorite characters started as weak and powerless, to overcoming their vulnerability. Some of our favorites made it through and rose back into power, and others got their genitals cut off and almost died.

Thanks to George R.R Martin’s unwavering will to kill off any character I’ve loved, I have spent the majority of the first seven seasons with a box of tissues glued to my lap. But I will tell you this; it is immensely satisfying watching the characters of the show go from being in a dark and vulnerable place to reclaiming what is rightfully theirs and demanding their right to power.

Here’s how our favorite characters evolved over the past eight seasons.

House Stark:

Names play an essential role in this show. Characters will always present themselves with the title of their House. There’s no doubt that names affect how others will perceive them. The sigil of the Starks is a direwolf on a white field (snow), a fierce creature that emerges from the depths of the cold, and is forever loyal to their owners. The Starks are also obnoxiously loyal, but their loyalty is what got most of them killed. The words of House Stark are some of the most prominent throughout eight seasons: Winter is Coming.

Jon Snow: So beautiful. So innocent. His whole life, Jon has been playing the bastard and downplayed by everyone. After joining the Night’s Watch, becoming a spy beyond the wall, dying and coming back to life, Jon is ready to head back home to Winterfell in a scrumptious man bun and few battle scars where he’s named King in the North. After befriending Dany, we have yet to see what’s in store for the rightful heir to the Iron Throne.

Sansa Stark: Sansa starts out a foolish young girl, who was in love with the queen’s son. After witnessing her father’s execution at the hand of her future husband, her character undergoes a drastic change. Sansa goes through hell as she was held prisoner at King’s Landing, but eventually escapes. Her shift in wardrobe hints that she’s not that foolish little girl anymore, but a leader ready to take back her power and kill for revenge.

Arya Stark: By far, Arya Stark has undergone the most changes. She was one of the youngest characters to debut on GoT, and she has survived on her own after her father’s execution. She disguises herself as a boy and befriends The Faceless Man. She is taught sword fighting, and how to be a trained assassin. In fact, she avenges her family by killing Walder Frey for what happened at The Red Wedding. We see her in season 8 all grown up, her weapons on her side, and ready to kick some ass.

House Targaryen:

When someone says Targaryen, you automatically think white hair and the Mother of Dragons. The sigil of this House is a three-headed dragon on a black field. There’s a long history behind the Targaryen rule, which yes, ended mostly in fire. After their nation of Valyria was destroyed, Aegon Targaryen and his sisters flew to Westeros on three dragons and destroyed anyone and anything that stood in their way. Their House words are “Fire and Blood,” so maybe it’s best to give them what they want…

Daenerys Targaryen: The definition of “started from the bottom; now we’re here.” Dany started out meek and submissive, and unable to get her way. After marrying a Dothraki, she found her inner power and took control after her Khal Drogo died. With three baby dragons behind her, Dany begins preparation to take back the Iron Throne. Little by little, she builds an army and makes a name for herself. We see her in the eight seasons with Jon Snow, planning to fight the Night King.

House Lannister:

Throughout the seasons, you hear the common phrase “A Lannister always pays their debts,” but did you know their House words are “Hear me Roar”? Talk about obnoxious. We learn that a Lannister always does pay their debts, and not always in money. Their sigil is a golden rampant lion on a red field, to show off their royalty, wealth, and strength. Don’t forget that the lion is the king of the jungle. If you’re going to pick an animal to represent your strength and power, it might as well be that.

Tyrion Lannister: Tyrion’s character was immediately lovable from the very beginning. He was the ugly duckling of the family, but his sharp wits knew no bounds. He stood for what was right, and his kind nature made him tolerable to others. After being falsely accused of Joffrey’s murder, he fled to Essos where he’d later become Hand of the Queen to Daenerys Targaryen. At the beginning of the show, we see that he was desperately trying to uphold the Lannister name, but feeling unwanted, he paved his own path to power.

Jaime Lannister: If you were to tell me that this guy was going to be my absolute favorite character by the end of the show, I would not have believed you. Jaime was extremely loyal to Cersei, and his love for her is what made him a prisoner of Robb Stark. After getting his right hand cut off, Jaime barely escaped with his life and traveled back to King’s Landing. With some help, he was taught to sword fight with one hand. Due to the journey he experienced on the road back home, Jaime’s perspective has changed, and he’s not the same person we loathed in season one.

As the characters developed, they’ve grown to realize the meaning of honor, integrity, and the power a name can hold. With the last season in play, it’s challenging to foreshadow what will happen. After all, this is a show that killed off its main character in season one (Ned Stark). Regardless, it’s best to wait and see, and pray your favorites don’t get killed off.

April 24, 2019
The Ultimate List of of the Most Expensive Wedding Dresses

Ladies, let’s admit it, the best thing about being a bride is heading to every David’s Bridal in your town and trying on dresses waaaaay out of your budget. I mean, it’s all fun in the end, and it’s an experience some of us only experience once in a lifetime.

So how much did you end up paying for that white gown of glory? A grand? Two? Hell, maybe it exceeded the threshold of ten grand?

Maybe you did what I did and googled “David Bridal Discount Dresses” and bought a Vera Wang wedding dress that cost $300 instead of three thousand. Hey, I was looking to save as much as I could and had to be clever about my spending.

Side note: I looked auh-mazing.

The list of expensive wedding dresses is a tough one, but I eventually found a few jaw-dropping ones that will have you craving another wedding!

Just kidding, at this point, I just crave some sleep.

1. Angela Yueng

The first time I’ve heard of this Chinese actress/singer/model (sheesh), it was about how she’s tied the knot with her boyfriend and her $31 million wedding. She wore a custom made Dior gown that took nearly five months to create! According to Forbes, the dress was “Crafted out of 115 feet of ivory satin organza and 165 feet of tulle, the intricate piece features a 10-foot-long train, and nearly a hundred hand-cut rose bouquets made of Chantilly Lace”.

Xinhua Press

Now, the price of the dress was actually never disclosed, which leaves one to wonder: Out of that $31 million, how much did that dress really cost?

These are the things that keep me up at night.

2. Kate Middleton

You better believe a royal wedding is going to make this list. I am utterly in love with Kate Middleton. Her incredible sense of style, her modest looks, her role in several charities, and obviously, that smile. When she wore an Alexander Mcqueen on her wedding, I was in tears. The lace of the dress was crafted at the Royal School of Needlework. I know that sounds fake, but it’s the UK, so I promise it’s a real thing.

Kirsty Wigglesworth

The dress was long sleeve, hand embroidered with flowers on both the bodice and hips and Kate’s train was over eight feet long. The dress reportedly hit a six-figure price and cost $434,000.

3. Mariah Carey

‘Cause when you love someone, you just don’t treat them bad, you messed up all we had, probably thinking I’m coming back.

See more: Mariah Carey Burns Wedding Dress

Those are the lyrics of Mariah Carey’s “I Don’t,” where in her music video, she burned her $335,000 Valentino wedding dress to ashes. The singer was engaged to billionaire James Packer at the time, but the two broke off their engagement before we got to see Mimi flaunt her stuff in Bora Bora (planned wedding destination). You see, ladies, we can all learn a little something here. Next time your man pisses you off…you know what to do.

4. Diana Spencer

Really? Another royal?

Yes, you guys, these guys are flushed with cash, so they’re at the top of most lists.

Shutterstock

Lady Diana Spencer wed Prince Charles in 1981 and wore a dress so beautiful that it is still talked about till this day. The dress was embroidered with ivory silk taffeta and antique lace, with a 25-foot train and valued at $115,000. Elizabeth Manuel and her husband created it at the time. Lady Diana herself worked with the designers to ensure that the dress was kept modest and up to expectations.

5. Victoria Adams

Formerly known as Victoria Beckham, a world renowned style icon. Now, if you want a reminder of what the nineties were like, then Victoria and David Beckham’s wedding is the perfect visual. The Spice Girl and former England football captain wed in 1999 in a castle in Clonsilla. That’s what happens when you have friends in high places, people.

Pinterest

And you’re a famous football player with a successful artist for a partner.

Regarding Victoria’s dress, she wore a Vera Wang with a 20-foot train that was estimated to have cost $100,000.

6. Kleinfeld

You might have heard or seen the name Kleinfeld in movies, magazines, and tv shows including the popular TLC show “Say Yes to the Dress.”

Fun fact: Kleinfeld wasn’t always a bridal retailer. It started as a fur salon in 1941, until the Kleinfeld realized there was a demand for wedding dresses in NYC. Kleinfeld is known for accommodating to every bride’s request and spending several hours putting in work (and love) into every dress.

Kleinfeld

Although their prices vary, the most expensive dress that left Kleinfeld’s doors was custom made Pnina Tornai and cost the bride $80,000.

April 10, 2019
The Importance of Sharing a Surname with Your Kids: What to Consider
The Importance of Sharing a Surname with Your Kids: What to Consider

In today’s evolving landscape, many people are thoughtfully deciding to keep their maiden name after marriage. The reasons are diverse and deeply personal, often stemming from a desire to maintain independence, preserve a professional identity, or simply avoid the societal pressure to change. Some feel a strong connection to their birth name, seeing it as a vital part of their identity that they wish to preserve.

But as families grow and children enter the picture, a new question often arises: Will your children carry your last name, your partner’s, or a combination of both? While the decision about surnames is entirely personal, it’s widely recognized that having a different last name from your children can present unique considerations and, at times, unexpected challenges.

It’s widely known that having a different surname from your children will produce a few problems. The most prominent one (which is actually not that big of a problem) would always be correcting people’s assumptions about you. Most people will assume you’re divorced, considering that your child has a different name than yours.

Everyday Perceptions and Identity

Perhaps the most common experience is the frequent need to clarify assumptions. When your child has a different surname, people may often presume you are divorced or not the biological parent. While this isn’t a “major problem” in the grand scheme, consistently correcting these assumptions can become tiring over time. As children grow older, they become more observant. They might notice that their surname doesn’t match yours, leading to questions about family identity. While many parents are comfortable addressing these inquiries, it’s a conversation worth being prepared for.

Considerations for Travel and Official Situations

Beyond daily interactions, more significant issues can arise, particularly when traveling internationally or dealing with official documentation. Consider the experience of Hannah Marshall, who was stopped by border control because her daughter did not share her last name. She was suspected of attempting to abduct the child. This highlights a serious concern: authorities are highly vigilant about child trafficking and abduction.

Due to these safeguards, if you’re traveling with children who have a different surname from yours, you may be asked to provide additional legal documents. This could include:
- The child’s birth certificate (listing both parents).
- A consent letter from the other parent (if they are not traveling with you).
- Your marriage certificate or divorce decree, depending on the situation.
UK Home Office clarified this procedure is in place to safeguard children, but it can lead to significant delays and stress if you’re unprepared.

Administrative Hurdles: School, Medical, and Legal Forms

The surname difference can also introduce minor administrative complexities in various aspects of your daily life:
- School Applications and Emergency Contacts: When enrolling children in school or filling out emergency contact forms, a name discrepancy might prompt extra questions or require additional proof of your parental relationship. In an emergency, schools are more likely to verify identity with a matching surname, potentially causing slight delays.
- Doctor’s Visits and Medical Consent: At a doctor’s office, you might face additional scrutiny when providing medical consent or accessing records if your last name doesn’t match your child’s. Having readily available identification that links you to your child (like a birth certificate) is crucial.
- Parental Consent for Minors: For situations requiring parental permission, such as a teenager applying for a learner’s permit at the DMV or seeking job employment, you may need to provide robust documentation to prove your legal relationship. While these issues are generally resolvable, they can become roadblocks without proper preparation.
These scenarios, while often manageable, underscore the importance of understanding potential complications and ensuring you have all necessary supporting documentation readily available.

Making Your Informed Decision

Ultimately, the choice of surname for both parents and children is a deeply personal one. There’s no universal “right” answer, and families are increasingly embracing diverse naming conventions. However, being aware of the potential practical implications—from clarifying assumptions to navigating border control—can help you make an informed decision that works best for your family.

Whatever path you choose, remember that HitchSwitch is here to simplify your name change needs. Whether you’re considering adopting your partner’s surname, creating a new hyphenated name, or ensuring consistency with your children’s last name, our service provides the customized forms and step-by-step instructions to make the process as seamless as possible.

Ready to simplify your name change journey? Let HitchSwitch take the stress out of updating your identity, ensuring all your documents reflect your chosen surname with ease.
April 3, 2019
WOMEN OF THE WEDDING INDUSTRY, ON CHANGING THEIR NAME & STARTING A PODCAST!

In 2016, Lisa & Rebecca started a podcast called The Secret Life of Weddings.

On a mission to tell the world’s craziest wedding stories, the podcast is, in their own words, “full of alcohol and bad ideas.” The two real-life wedding photographers have spent 20+ years working in the industry and love dishing out on some unbelievable yet hysterical wedding drama. If you’re engaged, Lisa & Rebecca promise to take you from hot mess wedding planning mode to pee your pants laughing!

Here at HitchSwitch, we’re not just their #1 fans but are proud to be the official sponsor of The Secret Life of Weddings.

Read below to get in on our conversation with co-hosts, Lisa & Rebecca!

Q&A

What inspired you to start SLOW?

We have been wedding photographers for so many years and have seen everything that can go right and hilariously wrong! One time we worked together on a particular wedding where someone was acting quite challenging, and over drinks, we thought up the idea of starting a podcast! We figured that this podcast would be a great place for fellow wedding vendors, brides, guests, etc. could anonymously email us their craziest true wedding stories, and we would share with the world! That’s when The Secret Life of Weddings was born.

What has been the most challenging aspect of starting a podcast?

Probably always recording and releasing the episodes on-time no matter what. We understood that in order to be successful, we had to treat running a podcast like a business because essentially, that’s what it is. I don’t think we’ve ever missed a drop date, even if we were sick or on holiday. You learn to handle it! And to do it for over a year and a half is a challenge, but our amazing loyal listeners & sponsors make it worthwhile for us.

What do you love about working in the Wedding Industry?

That people genuinely care about the couple getting married and the wedding planning process. It’s really cool to see families come together and become one!

What is The funniest listener submission.. if you can pick one?

Oh, that’s like asking to pick a favorite kid, but if we had to pick one, it would probably be the one where a bride fell off a golf cart and got run over. It sounds horrible, I know, but I promise it was hilarious! The fact that you really shouldn’t be laughing … just makes you laugh even harder! She was 100% okay so we hope the universe will forgive us for laughing.

Did either of you change your name and what did that mean for you?

Yes, we both did! I (Lisa) actually added my husband’s last name onto my existing maiden name. It’s important to note I chose not to hyphenate because I didn’t want to create a new name, but only take on his name and maintain my existing last name too. I kept my maiden name for professional reasons and use my full married name for family purposes, as my kids have my married name. It meant a lot to me to take my husband’s name (I like the tradition of it), but my maiden name also still meant a lot to me. This was the perfect compromise and just felt right.

What is your favorite current wedding trend?

Late night food, definitely! Weddings are definitely the best excuse to let loose and eat every amazing food in sight! You can dance it off later 😉

What advice do you have for a brides-to-be in dealing with the stress of wedding planning/ frustrating guests & family?

Try to keep perspective and accept the fact that something, no matter how small, will go wrong on your wedding day. It’s best to accept this fact and decide it won’t ruin your wedding day. As for unwanted advice from well-meaning friends & family, merely thank them for their thoughts and change the subject. Wedding planning is prime time for people coming out of the woodwork with unwanted suggestions. Let them feel like they helped, and then do what you want anyway. It’s your wedding, not theirs.

You’re both married. Can you share any advice for newly married HitchSwitch clients?

Don’t expect marriage to be easy. You will have disagreements, and it’s all about how you handle them. Pick your battles … not everything is worth fighting over. If you fight or argue – don’t worry about it. It means you care about your relationship. Remember always to be each other’s best friend!

March 28, 2019
Financial Tips as a New Married Couple

You know that part in every wedding ceremony where the priest or rabbi or best friend goes, “…to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health…” and you’re standing there thinking “please God, the richer and health part sounds amazing, let’s go with that”.

I’ve been there, you’ve been there. Let’s be honest, here.

It boggles me when people compare marriage to a trap because it only feels that way if you let it. Yes, marriage is a compromise, and you need to give it your all, blah blah blah. I’m not here to play the marriage counselor.

Marriage is an incredible experience that requires you and your partner to share everything you have, physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.

via GIPHY

So let’s take a look at that last part there.

Money management between spouses is a heated topic and will 99.9% of the time in an argument and someone sleeping on the couch. Incorporating your partner’s finances into your own is a difficult step that will take time, effort and a lot of understanding. Before marriage, you were both individuals spending money; however, you wanted.

But now, you need to figure out how to balance that checkbook and develop new money-saving habits. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Talk About It

Having the “money talk” with your partner is like having the sex talk with your teenager. You don’t want to discuss it, but eventually, it needs to be out in the open. In every relationship, there’s always someone who is the CEO of money management. They deal with the store receipts, the bills, the spending, the taxes, and so on. Even if financing isn’t your strength, one of you needs to take on the role to keep track of what’s going on in your household money-wise.

Or should I say, Pennywise, haha.

via GIPHY

Once you figure out who’s in charge, it’s easier to talk about setting goals, how much money can be spent, and where that money should be spent.

2. Hold Yourself Account-able

So how are we doing this? Are we each going to have separate bank accounts? Joint account? An emergency fund?

When we first got married, my husband made the horrible choice to trust me enough to join our accounts. Boy, did that come back to bite him in the ass. Everyone has a way to deal with their emotions, and mine happens to be retail therapy, so don’t judge me.

Long story short, to teach me a lesson, he eventually created two separate accounts. Thanks to my excessive (but necessary) spending at Williams-Sonoma, I led my marriage into a financial crisis in just the first year. I was still spending the way I was when I was single.

You need to figure out what will work best for your particular situation. If you feel like the right thing to do is open a joint account, and both contribute to saving money, then go ahead and do that. If you feel like your partner is an impulsive buyer, and separate accounts will benefit you, then go ahead and do that.

via GIPHY

No matter what you choose to do, you need to agree on the monthly expenses: groceries, produce, electricity, gas, etc. These things are non-negotiable.

3. You Can’t Own a Jet if You’re in Debt

Even though I was the big spender in the relationship, my husband was the one who had more debt coming into the marriage. Having a massive debt will affect your chances of obtaining credit in your future. This will impact you when it comes to applying for a mortgage, buying a car/house, getting a job, and even buying a phone!

This is why you should consider paying off the debt together.

Do you need to pay for everything all at once? Of course not. Set up a plan that will prioritize what debt needs to be paid first. I know paying off someone’s debt, even your partner’s, doesn’t sound so hot, but there’s no way to tackle this alone.

The National Debt Relief has some greater starter tips to help you take your first steps.

4. Insurance Coverage

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

via GIPHY

That was relevant, don’t fight me. We’ve got life, car, home, health, renter’s, and travelers insurance. It’s always best to know what type of insurance you and your partner have. After marriage, you might want to figure out what insurance to purchase together and which ones to keep separate. Some employers have insurance coverage in their plan so make sure to check yours out. For more information on how to find affordable health care insurance, check out Haven Life for further information.

5. Goals

What’s the point in saving money if you can’t spend it? Always set a goal to help motivate you to spend your money wisely. Is there a particular restaurant you’ve had your eye on that’s a bit pricey? An island you want to visit? A house on the market? When you have a motivation, you’re more likely to be wise with your savings. Stay on track and figure out how much you need to save every week (or month) for achieving your goal.

via GIPHY

Remember, it’s not going to be easy in the beginning, but practice makes progress, and progress makes perfect!

March 20, 2019
Why You Should Consider Taking Your Partner’s Last Name?

Marriage is one hell of a ride.

There are numerous things to consider before getting married. Since medieval times, a woman taking her husband’s last name was understandable, no question about it. Luckily for us, those days of patriarchy are over (kinda) and changing your last name is now an independent choice!

And let’s face it, the world has changed. Same-sex marriage is legal now, more women are in the work field making their name their brand/identity, some couples prefer hyphenation, some prefer keeping their surname as their middle name, and some like to change the last name entirely.

All in all, there’s no shame in keeping your last name, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with taking your significant other’s last name.

So the million dollar question: should I take my partner’s last name?

While only YOU know the answer to that question, we’re here to tell you why you should contemplate changing your last name.

1. Us Against The World

Like my four-year-old niece always reminds me, “There’s no “I” in “TEAM.” She doesn’t even know what it means but her mom persists on making her a “team player,” whatever the heck that means.

Some marriages work, some don’t. But if you are married, and you are confident that this person is your soulmate, then taking their last name will make you feel like nothing can get you down. It’s just very different after marriage because this person becomes your go-to for everything! You cry to them, complain to them, cook for them, clean for them, and live for them. Plus, you want the whole world to associate you with them. Marriage is love and love is joining as one against the whole damn world.

via GIPHY

2. Out With The Old, In With The New

Think of marriage as a door opening to another world, because really, it is. Your whole world gets turned upside down and everything changes.

You start to pave a path with your partner, and you have to adjust to the new world around you. In a way, you have to leave your “old” life behind and embrace this new adventure with your loved one. Part of that “old” life is your maiden name.

Yes, it could be scary and overwhelming, but it could also be exciting and fun! With a new identity, it feels like you’ve got a second chance to do the things you love with the person you love.

3. Think Of The Children

There’s no doubt that every mother or father wants the same surname as their future children. Having different names than your children causes confusions at schools, hospitals, and airports. If you have teenage children, then you’ll know that even your breathing embarrasses them.

via GIPHY

To make things easier for yourself, in the long run, it’s best to take your partner’s last name and save yourself some trouble. When you think family, you don’t think of each parent having a different last name.

4. Judge Judy Eyes

Ok, you’re not going to like this one, but I feel obliged to mention it because I know what it’s like to come from a judgy family. Hey, people are assholes, and that includes family.

When I told my family I wouldn’t be changing my last name after marriage, they were appalled. It’s become so accustomed in our family for a woman to change her maiden name that when someone questioned it, it seemed corrupt. I had an uncle tell me that if I wasn’t going to change my last name to my husband’s, then I shouldn’t get married at all.

Yeah, asshole family but I still love them like crazy.

After a year of marriage, I changed my last name because it felt like the right thing to do and it’s what I wanted to do. There was no pressure from anyone, and my husband never rushed me into it.

My point is, no matter what you decide to do, there will always be people there to judge you. People’s opinion should never have an impact on your decisions. Honestly, what are middle fingers for if not these moments?

via GIPHY

5. Stronger Bond

Do you know who makes me the happiest person on the planet? My partner.

While changing your last name may not seem like a big deal to you, for some, it means a lot. Once I got the hang of marriage and realized I married the man of my dreams, I decided to strengthen the bond between us. For people from our cultural background, that meant taking his last name. When I finally did it, I felt like the happiest person on the planet. I swear I am not over exaggerating, you guys.

It just seemed official at last! I was ecstatic, and it felt like one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

via GIPHY

If you are considering changing your last name, then HitchSwitch is here to help you through the process. Always speak to your partner before making any final decisions, and in the end, always remember that the choice is up to you.

March 13, 2019