Q: I use my maiden name professionally, but my husband's socially. How should I have printed my name on invitations and holiday cards that I want to send to both professional and social acquaintances? A: If you're sending out a lot of cards you might have two sets printed up, one using your professional name ("Mary Smith and John Thompson") and the other, your married name ("Mary and John Thompson" or, for a formal occasion, "Mr. and Mrs. John Thompson"). Another option: Use your married name, then sign your professional name in parentheses under it with a brief note ("Hope you can join us!").

The Name Game: When should you use your professional name?

August 21, 2019

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Q: I use my maiden name professionally, but my husband’s socially. How should I have printed my name on invitations and holiday cards that I want to send to both professional and social acquaintances?

A: If you’re sending out a lot of cards you might have two sets printed up, one using your professional name (“Mary Smith and John Thompson”) and the other, your married name (“Mary and John Thompson” or, for a formal occasion, “Mr. and Mrs. John Thompson”). Another option: Use your married name, then sign your professional name in parentheses under it with a brief note (“Hope you can join us!”).