I Took My Husband’s Last Name; Now I’m Jennifer Lopez

I used to be sitting on the DMV with my newlywed husband, excitedly ready to get my driver’s license with my married title, when the agent yelled out, “Jennifer Lopez!” Immediately, the excitement of exercise within the constructing got here to a screeching halt. Each single individual within the room turned to take a look at me. As we regarded across the room in horror, I bear in mind pondering, “Oh, no! What have I finished?”When my then-boyfriend and I first began courting, I had chuckled on the thought of my title turning into Jennifer Lopez if we ever bought married. And naturally, once we bought engaged and I made the choice to take his final title, I actually did give it some thought, however nonetheless discovered it mildly amusing.I do not assume I ever may have predicted or understood the complete impression of what it could imply to change into Jennifer Lopez.Folks tried to name me JLoInitially, it was the nickname that bothered me essentially the most. At work, my colleagues would attempt to name me JLo, and I would knock that down instantly. Nope, no method, I did not need that nickname.Past the annoying nickname, it rapidly turned a “factor” that irrespective of the place I used to be or what I used to be doing, when somebody discovered my title, they’d make a remark.It will get much more out of hand once I’m touring in international locations the place Lopez shouldn’t be a typical surname. Just like the time I used to be ready in line in South Africa for the boat that takes you to tour Robben Island, and one of many guides taking tickets seen my title and proceeded to inform everybody that Jennifer Lopez was getting on the boat with them. He even requested to take a photograph with me. Or once we had been taking the practice from Vancouver, BC, to Seattle, and the border patrol determined to inform everybody on the practice that there was a star with them.I now introduce myself as JenI discovered immediately that introducing myself as Jen as a substitute of Jennifer toned down folks’s reactions, or it at the very least delayed their realization of my full title. Professionally, I take advantage of my full title, together with my center title (additionally my maiden title), Jen Sable Lopez, which can be a great buffer.Having the identical title as a well-known individual is one factor, however strive having the identical title as 4,300 different folks in the US. Sure, that is how many individuals are estimated to have the title Jennifer Lopez. So not solely do I’ve to take care of snickers and pleasure in all places I’m going due to the one well-known Jennifer, nevertheless it causes every kind of points coping with having the identical title as so many others.For instance, it is inconceivable to get a brand new electronic mail deal with or create a username for any app with some variation of Jennifer Lopez. It is not going to occur. They’re all taken, all the time.I’ve additionally had points on the airport when there’s one other Jennifer Lopez on the identical flight. It’s important to undergo further safety to allow them to confirm who you’re. Nonetheless, when the gate agent calls us up, the opposite lady and I’ll all the time give one another the JLo nod.After nearly 23 years of marriage and “hehe Jennifer Lopez?!” reactions, I’ve embraced my title. Now, I really like that folks have a tendency to recollect me and my title due to it. Plus, it is gotten me lodge room upgrades, and as soon as I bought a complete row to myself on a flight.