‘I find the idea of ‘taking my husband’s name’ repelling.’

I’m getting married in three months. I am not changing my name. In fact, I find the idea of “taking my husband’s name” repelling.

I understand the best thing about feminism is choice. And it’s great that women can choose. But I just don’t understand why you would choose to lose your name?

I’m divorced. If I’d taken my first husband’s name I’d be Shelly Cockerill. Kind of sounds like a porn name or sea bird. No deal.

But now I’m getting married again and my fiance has a great last name. Robinson. I could be Mrs Robinson.

Here’s to you, Mrs Robinson.

Mrs Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me aren’t you?

But giving away my name feels like giving away my identity.

I’ve worked hard in my career. I’m known by my name. To me it would be like Coke changing their name to Penelope just because they love someone. It just doesn’t make sense.

A former boss of mine presented an argument for journalists to keep their maiden name throughout their careers. She was an industrial relations reporter in the UK. She got married. Moved jobs. Moved cities. But because she kept her maiden name, a whistle-blower in an asbestos case tracked her down. He said she was the only one he trusted and if he hadn’t been able to find her he would have taken the secrets to the grave. His story changed laws and lives.

Celebrities who changed their names (post continues after gallery).