A Stress-Free Name Change Journey - # 164 - Stress-free Wedding Planning

Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:01):
Are you newlywed and wondering whatcomes next beyond the honeymoon
and the thank you notes, are younewlyweds wondering what comes next?
Have you and your partner talked aboutwhether to change your last name, but
feel overwhelmed by where to start.
Thanks for joining us.
Hi, I am Sam from Atmosphere Productions.

(00:24):
We'll answer these and otherquestions in today's edition of the
Stress-Free Wedding Planning Podcast
.Welcome to another edition of our podcast.
Hi, I'm Sal from AfterHours Events of New England.
Listen now and discover how to say "Ido" to a Stress-Free Name Change Journey.
These are Wedding Insider secrets fora Stress-Free, fun and memorable day.

(00:47):
Our podcast helps engage couplesnavigate wedding planning complexities
while addressing family expectations.
We'll guide you through the journeyof creating the perfect wedding
day without unnecessary stress.
By the end of this edition, you'llget concise tips on budgeting,
wedding party management, ceremony,reception planning, and more.

(01:09):
Perfect for anyone planning awedding all in 30 minutes or less.
Trust us, you don't wanna miss this.
Welcome to Stress-Free WeddingPlanning, the podcast that will
transform your wedding planningjourney from chaotic to enchanting.
Sal and Sam bring over 80 years ofcombined wedding expertise and exclusive
insider information to the table.
If you're recently engaged, feelingthe pressure of wedding planning.

(01:31):
Struggling with family expectations, butstill dreaming of a joy filled wedding.
You've come to the right place.
Get ready to unveil thebest kept wedding secrets.
Discover practical tips andstrategies and learn life changing
lessons for a Stress-Free wedding.
Your unforgettable wedding day awaits.
We're here to take you on a transformativejourney of love, laughter, and memories.

(01:53):
So don't miss out on the podcast,that just might change your life.
This is the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Thank you for listening and becauseof you, we are now ranked at number
15 in the Top 60 Wedding PlanningPodcasts by Million Podcasts dot com.
On today's podcast, we'll explaineffortless post wedding name change

(02:15):
solutions for you to say "I do" to aStress-Free Wedding Name Change Journey.
Hi, I'm Sam from the Award-WinningAtmosphere Productions Wedding
Entertainment with expert knowledgeand the difference in quality.
Specializing in live ceremonymusicians and cocktail hours string
musicians plus lighting and anelegant and classy presentation.

(02:37):
We have exactly what you need.
Visit us at Atmospherehyphen Productions.com.
That's us at Atmospherehyphen Productions.com..
Learn more about our experienceand the journey to help you with
stress-free wedding planning in thetrailer or pilot of this podcast.
The name change process after marriage isa significant milestone, but it can also

(03:00):
be filled with questions and uncertainty.
What steps should you take firstto make your new name official?
Which documents are essentialto update and in what order?
How can you avoid common pitfallsthat ensure a smooth transition?
If these questions soundfamiliar, you are not alone.
Hi, I'm Sal of After HoursEvents of New England, the

(03:21):
experts in creating a stress-freeunforgettable wedding experience.
We bring energy, professionalism,and passion to making every
couple's big day truly special.
Visit us at After HoursEvents Of N.E dot com.
Again, that's After HoursEvents Of N.E. dot com.
Many couples find the namechange journey confusing and

(03:45):
to be honest, time consuming.
But with the right guidance,it doesn't have to be.
In today's edition, we'll explaineffortless post wedding name change
solutions for you to say "I do" toa Stress-Free Name Change Journey.
We'll break down the process intoclear, manageable steps, helping you
navigate each stage with confidence.

(04:07):
Whether you are eager to embrace yournew name or just exploring options,
you'll discover everything you needto know for a seamless start to your
married life full of joy and happiness.
Number one, deciding on your new namebefore diving into any paperwork.
Take time as a couple.

(04:27):
The two of you get together todiscuss your name change options.
Will one partner take the other's surname?
Will you hyphenate blendnames together, or both?
Keep your own name or one clientactually took the bride's last name.
Isn't that amazing?
There's no right or wrong way to do this.

(04:49):
Choose what feels right forthe both of you, for your
relationship and for the future.
Now, here's a pro Tip for you.
Double check your state's laws regardingname changes, as some places have specific
rules about what's allowed and what's not.
Another is obtaining certified copiesor copy of your marriage certificate.

(05:12):
What I mean by that, when I saycopy or copies, you are finding town
halls, at least in our state herein Connecticut, are trying to sell
multiple copies of your certificate.
Do you really need them?
In my opinion, you do not.
They will tell you,they highly suggest it.
And for the reason is, ladies, if you'rechanging your name, hey, you have to

(05:32):
change your name on your driver's license.
You have to change your nameon your social security.
But the thing is.
You don't have to relinquish yourcertificate to do any of that.
Those are two things you are doingin person and you would actually
show them the certificate and theywill make a copy for their records.
So there's no reason for having multiplecopies, but please make sure you have this

(05:56):
paperwork when you start the name changingprocess 'cause it will be very important.
Just a reminder, join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for the Stress-FreeWedding Planning Podcast.
with Sal and Sam.
Like.
Comment, subscribe, and get it first.
Speaking of first, the SocialSecurity Administration is

(06:17):
typically the first stop on yourjourney in the name change process.
Complete the Social SecurityAdministration's change application.
It's called Form SS five, so youcan just google that or go to the
SSA website, gather your certifiedmarriage certificate, proof of

(06:37):
identity and proof of citizenshipor legal residency, and submit them
in person as Sal just said to you.
And now it's Pro Tip time.
Wait until you receive your newsocial security card before updating
other documents to avoid mismatches.
Yeah, your social security cardis the key to changing everything.

(07:01):
If it's not right there,you can't do anything else.
So that's really the firststep that you need to make.
And the next step is yourdriver's license or your State ID.
You need to have that social securitycard, and that marriage certificate
to get an updated, card, eitherbe your license or your state id.

(07:22):
So those are very important thingsthat you must have with you.
And again, DMV is gonna make a copy ofthe certificate you already have, so
there's no reason to purchase another one.
Now, don't forget the DMV or ifyou're in Massachusetts, the RMV
have changed how they do things.
You need to set an appointment.
You could either do that online or throughthe phone, but online is the easiest way.

(07:46):
Do that first, then make yourmove to the DMV or the RMV.
And just a small note that we have alot of listeners and viewers on YouTube
who do not live in the United States.
Make sure if you are listening to this,that you follow your country's rules and
regulations on how to change your name.
And obviously you can just go toGoogle for that and that will help you.

(08:09):
These are just steps that we lay outhere for our listeners in the States.
Now, another important aspect is yourpassport . If you have travel plans,
prioritize updating your passport.
In the US the State Departmentis responsible for that, and
they provide different forms.

(08:30):
Depending on how recent your passport wasissued, you'll need your current passport,
a certified marriage certificate.
A new passport photoand the appropriate fee.
Don't forget that fee.
If you don't send in the fee,they will just return it to you.
Here's a travel Tip for you if youhave upcoming international travel.

(08:51):
Wait!
Wait!
Wait!
Why?
Because you have to wait until after yourtrip to change your name as any mismatched
documents can cause complications.
I have heard stories of coupleschanging the name before the actual
wedding and then forgetting that theirpassport had their old names and they

(09:16):
were refused international travel.
So this is crucial.
Make sure you do that.
Now Sal's gonna explainsomething important.
It's called the Six Month Passport Rule.
What is that, Sal?
Now let's go to the exact meaning ofthe Six Month Rule for your passport.
Most countries require at least sixmonths of passport validity to grant
you travel entry to any country.

(09:39):
So you need to make sure yourpassport is still gonna be good.
After your trip is over, so thatis very important that you have
at least six months before it isdue again, before going anywhere.
If you don't have that six month wiggleroom, it's time to renew it early and
make sure you have it before your trip.
We've just explained five.

(09:59):
Surprisingly easy name changesolutions for you to say "I do" to
a Stress-Free Name Change Journey.
Come up next, more stepsthat you don't want to miss.
But first, if you have a questionor concern, go now to Facebook and
join us on the Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Community, and now on the
Connecticut Wedding Advice Community.

(10:20):
You can also join uson our YouTube channel.
Just search for Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
Like, comment, subscribe,and get it first.
This is thee Stress-Free WeddingPlanning Podcast with Sal and Sam.
A podcast for engaged couples concernedabout wedding planning and family
expectations, but who want a Stress-Free,fun and unforgettable wedding.

(10:42):
Experience the magic of your SpecialDay with Fitzner Productions.
A premier wedding videography companybased in Middletown, Connecticut.
Fitzner Productions dot com.
Our mission is to capture your lovestory candidly and authentically
creating stunning high quality videosthat you can cherish for years to come.
Our founder, Carson Fitznercombines technical expertise

(11:03):
with a passion of storytelling.
Ensuring every moment from the excitementof getting ready to the heartfelt
ceremony, is beautifully documented.
We offer a range of customizablepackages, including drone footage
and multi-location shoots,tailored to fit your unique vision.
Let us help you relive the romance,laughter, and tears of your wedding day.
Visit Fitzner Productions dot com.

(11:24):
That's F-I-T-Z-N-E-R Productions dot com.
It's Wedding Tip Wednesday time.
But first, love is blind,but marriage is an eyeopener.
Truer words have never been said, Sal.
Thank you.
On today's Wedding Tip Wednesday,unforeseen costs is our subject.

(11:45):
It's important to reserve an additionalfive to 10% of your budget for these
unforeseen costs, like includingprinting for extra invitations due
to errors, additional tailoringrequirements, transportation at the
end of the evening, or umbrellasfor an unexpected rain shower.
So remember, leave some roomin your wallet, and that's

(12:06):
another wedding tip from Sam.
Wedding Tip Wednesday is availableon the Stress-free Wedding Planning
Facebook group page every Wednesday.
Join the group for free.
Welcome back to our discussion about namechange solutions for you to say "I do"
to a Stress-Free Name Change Journey.
I'm Sam from Atmosphere Productions.
I am Sal from After HoursEvents of New England.

(12:29):
We've already discussed the signing onyour new name, obtaining certified copies
of your marriage certificate, updatingyour social security card and more.
Next, we need to update yourname with your employer to ensure
your payroll, tax forms andbenefits reflect the name change.
Then you can tackle your banks,credit card companies, lenders.

(12:50):
Each institution willhave its own process.
Some may require you to visit a branchin person, while others only require
you to update it online or by mail.
You need to create a checklist.
Do the same for your credit cards.
Each credit card companywill be different.
Your mortgages or leaseagreements, do those.

(13:12):
Retirement plans and investmentaccounts need to be changed as well.
It's important that you make achecklist of all that you have.
Obviously, we don't know what you have,so you need to make your own checklist and
check off these items as you go through.
Something so very important isnumber seven, and that's update your
insurance policies and medical records.

(13:33):
Don't forget to notify yourhealth, dental, and auto and
life insurance providers.
Update your name with your doctor'soffice and pharmacy to keep
your medical records accurate.
And here's a pro Tip.
This is a great time to review andupdate your beneficiaries and your
insurance and retirement accounts.
Now change your name on utilities,subscriptions and any memberships that

(13:58):
you might have from your electricitybill, your streaming services.
Update your name whereveryou have an account.
Gas, water, electric bills, yourcell phone, internet providers,
streaming services, those gymmemberships, loyalty programs.
All of it.
Make a checklist.

(14:18):
Again, we don't know what youhave, so you have to make these
checklists of any recurring bills andsubscriptions that you might have.
And this might also be a good timeto get rid of some subscriptions
that you might have duplicate.
If you both have Netflix accounts,you don't need that, you can get rid
of one and save some money with that.

(14:39):
Next, you need to notify governmentagencies and professional licenses.
So if you hold a professionallicense or certification, update
them with the relevant boards.
Also inform the IRS, your voterregistration, and any other
government agencies that needs it.
Now, I forgot to mention thisearlier and I wanna bring it up
'cause I think it is important.

(15:01):
Earlier I mentioned you only need onecopy of your marriage certificate.
You don't really need multiplecopies, and I still believe in that.
But there's one thing I do needto let you know is when you're
going for your passport, you dohave to send your certificate
with your passport information.
But being someone who's been through it.
Everything goes in a bigenvelope and it's flat.
When you send it to them, they willsend it exactly the way they got it.

(15:24):
So you're gonna get that certificatein pristine shape and you don't
have to worry about a thing.
Finally celebrate your new name, YIPPEEEE!
Update your email signature, yoursocial media profiles, and let friends
and family know about your new name.
Now, why is this the last thing to do?

(15:46):
Well, firstly, it's for security reasons.
You don't want to go on socialmedia, tell everybody your new name
before you changed it elsewhere.
So that's obviously important.
And secondly, although your gueststhat went to the ceremony, friends
may already know your new name.
You don't want to broadcast thatuntil you've got everything done, all

(16:08):
these little steps that we've askedyou to do, make sure you do that
before you post it on social media.
It'll be a lot safer for you.
Trust me.
So here's some final notes for you.
You wanna stay organized, keep afolder with all your receipts, your
marriage certificate, the list thatyou created to remember the things you

(16:28):
needed to have your name change on.
This is all very important.
Also be patient.
Some organizations take longer thanothers, so it may take a little time
for some of these changes to takeplace and consider a name change kit.
Many companies offer comprehensivekits to streamline the paperwork.
You could find a lot of thesethings on a Google search.

(16:50):
there are specific websites thatreally help you out and make
things a lot easier for you.
So there you have it.
We've just explained to you 10surprisingly easy steps for you to say "I
do" to a Stress-Free Name Change Journey.
Let's go down the list and you can checkthem off or jot them down as we go.
Firstly, decide on your new name.

(17:12):
Secondly, obtain certified copiesof your marriage certificate.
Three.
Update your social security card.
Four.
Change your name on yourdriver's license, or State ID.
Five.
Update your passport.
Six.
Notify your employer andany financial institutions.
Seven.

(17:33):
Update your insurancepolicies and medical records.
Eight.
Change your name on utilities,subscriptions and memberships.
Nine.
Notify any government agencies andprofessional bureaus or licenses
and finally share the news.

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A Stress-Free Name Change Journey - # 164

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.css-14f5ked{margin:0;word-break:break-word;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;box-orient:vertical;-webkit-line-clamp:2;overflow:hidden;}A Stress-Free Name Change Journey - # 164