After being divorced for a few years, I've finally changed my name back to my maiden name. I deal with many clients at work through email who have asked if Congratulations are in order.
I have been just emailing back and saying that this is my maiden name. : )
If anyone can think of a more professional way to respond, please let me know.
Additional Info Requested:I decided to keep my married name to make it easier for my 1 year old daughter at that time, and since my mother also kept her married name after divorce. After my ex was re-married and then had a baby, I felt like it was time to make a disctinction between that family and myself...
I have seen people add an * at the end of their email that says something like, "Please make note of the name change." Mostly this is for weddings, but you could add, "Please make note that I have changed my last name to my maiden name." Sorry, that's the best I can come up with.
I think your current answer is probably best. It is honest and to the point.
Another option would be "No, but thanks for asking".
i would put something in my signature, "new last name is maiden" and leave it at that
Why not just be honest and say you've finally decided to take back your maiden name after a divorce? Or if they know you've gone through a divorce, just say "finally got around to taking back my rightful name!"
I took my maiden name after a divorce and it was terribly hard on my daughter. she felt like I didn't want her anymore. I look back and think it was a selfish thought that made me even come up with it. From previous experience I say if you have kids the name should stay like theirs unless you remarry. It is hard on them, even years later like my case. she was 7-8 when she finally told me it bothered her.
Hi L., I like all the ideas here. But your post makes me wonder whether I should do the same thing. I have no attachment to my married name, but since it's my kid's name too it seems easier to just keep it. But I actually LIKE my maiden name and family association. I wonder what made you decide to go back, if you don't mind me asking?
:)
EDIT-Yes, I guess I'd like that distinction as well. In fact, I greatly DISLIKE the association. Interesting, thanks for the thought provoking post!
Sounds to me like you are handling just right.
Hi L. :-)
You might create a new signature, something like:
L. Johnson (maiden)
After a while the old clients will get it and the new ones will just accept what is. Or, you could do a one time mass mailing that you have changed your name to your maiden one, but you're still the "wonderful agent" or whatever you might add... as a more humorous touch :-)
hugs,
A. R.N., Energy Medicine Practitioner
