If you are a woman... If you are a man... After being married, it is up to you to decide whether you want to change your surname to that of your husband. Although this is traditionally the case, it is not a legal requirement. At this point there are three options open to you: To continue using your maiden name To take your husband's surname. To use a double-barrelled surname. [This option will require you to execute a Deed Poll.] You can also decide to use both your maiden name and your married name for different purposes (for example, you might want to use your maiden name as a professional name, and be known in private by your married name). If you decide to take your husband's name, then your marriage certificate automatically provides the neccessary documentary evidence of your change of name. It can be sent to all relevant parties who will be obliged to update their records. If you want to take a double-barrelled surname, you will need to use a Deed Poll. British law is unfair to men. Unfortunately, you have no automatic right to change your name when you get married, other than by Deed Poll. So if you want to use your wife's surname, or to take a double-barrelled surname jointly, you will need to use a Deed Poll. (* see below) Double-barrelled surnames In this situation, to avoid any unneccessary changes after the couple are married, it is a good idea for the groom to change his name by Deed Poll before the wedding, so that during the ceremony, the bride can take her groom's new surname in the traditional way.