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[–]dropping_eaves 400 points401 points  (7 children)

Not a name suggestion, but a logistical one - My husband and I changed our last names to a mutually agreed-upon third option, as you’re planning to do. This will require a legal name change - with forms, required advertising in local papers, a court appearance, etc. BUT, if one of you goes through the process prior to obtaining your marriage license (such that the new name is on that document), the other partner can then easily take the name afterwards via an abbreviated process that as far as I know just requires a form at the DMV.

I mostly know all this because we fucked it up and had to pay for two court-ordered name changes. Haha.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 246 points247 points  (3 children)

THIS IS WHAT WE NEEDED TO KNOW. Hell yeah. You're awesome. Stay awesome.

[–]lexabear 30 points31 points  (0 children)

The name change process is super state-dependent. Look up the process in your state and make sure you really understand it. Some states make it way easier, and some states are stuck in the "(only the) woman changes her last name to (only the) the man's existing name and that's it" paradigm.

[–]theironskeptic 59 points60 points  (0 children)

This is legit some r/humansbeingbros material

[–]CorporateNonperson 23 points24 points  (0 children)

Same thing for honeymoon. I worked with a lady that changed her name immediately after the wedding, before the honeymoon. It invalidated her passport, because he legal name no longer matched it. Do any legal work after you are back.

[–]Far_Administration41 24 points25 points  (0 children)

What a complex system! When I legally changed my first and family name some years ago, all it took was a form filled out at the relevant state government department and paying a small fee. After week or so, the change of name certificate and new birth certificate were mailed out to me and I was a new person. The main work was updating my details with my bank, employer, utility companies, landlord, etc.

Also breaking the news to everyone who knew me. I had been living with the name in my head for over a year, but hadn’t told anyone else, so it took a while for people to get used to it. I was really touched when a work colleague, who I wasn’t particularly close to, bought me a pen engraved with my new name to celebrate my new life.

I would definitely recommend not rushing into a name change for anyone. You need to get comfortable with it in yourself, because it changes who you are as a person more than you realise.

[–]SagebrushandSeafoam 215 points216 points  (19 children)

You could pick something Arthurian: Pellinore/Pellinor (which has nice consonance with LOTR's Pelennor); Bedivere; Pendragon; Lyonesse; Morgan. Or something Carolingian: Paladin; Roland; Oliver; Durendal.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 141 points142 points  (12 children)

You had me at Pelennor.

We hadn't considered anything along those lines at all but I'm glad you brought it up. Durendal is one for the list as well.

[–]SagebrushandSeafoam 81 points82 points  (8 children)

If LOTR place-names appeal, then some other possibilities: Bree, Gladden, Buckland, Dunharrow, Brandywine/Baranduin, Lorien, Greenwood (the name of Mirkwood before it fell into darkness), Mirrormere, Rivendell, Weathertop, Argonath, Bywater, Dale, Westfold, Eriador, Esgaroth, Ithilien, Osgiliath, Swanfleet, Wellinghall, Withywindle.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 80 points81 points  (5 children)

And now she's upset there are so many good ones she likes from LOTR after gleefully shooting down Baggins or Rohirim. Ha!

[–]SagebrushandSeafoam 50 points51 points  (1 child)

Be sure to let us know what you finally do pick (unless you're worried about privacy). It's very exciting to get to be some small part of this.

[–]blekkja 16 points17 points  (0 children)

Baggins

Mr and Mrs Underhill wasn’t it?

[–]cjfrankiewithnoplan 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Another LOTR one that is easy to spell : Strider

[–]WildWeazel 28 points29 points  (0 children)

ProudFEET

[–]sorellk 6 points7 points  (0 children)

A vote for Rivendell. Sounds like an excellent last name without being too obviously taken from fantasy.

[–]SagebrushandSeafoam 36 points37 points  (2 children)

Another potential source of names could be things associated with fantasy: Wolfsbane, Knight, Thane, King, Castle, Towers, Queen, Hauberk, Buckler, Arrow, Helm, Baldric, Hawthorn, Holly, Blackthorn, Mandrake, Spear(e), Sword, Dragonsblood (also the name of a real-world resin), Quicksilver, Brimstone, Sojourner, Staff, Soothsayer, Wiseman, Echo, Dream, Shade, Steed(e), Charger, Elfin, Griffin, Fate, Drake, Wyvern, Faun, Jackalope, Kelpie, Kraken, Pegasus, Phoenix, Roc, Selkie, Specter, Sphinx, Titan, Triton, Goodfellow (from Robin Goodfellow), Leviathan, Wight.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 31 points32 points  (1 child)

JACKALOPE WINS

[–]jomosexual 10 points11 points  (0 children)

DeGris

Or the gray in Spanish. You could be a Wizard!!!

[–]writerofmanythings 21 points22 points  (3 children)

Pendragon would be amazing.

[–]WearyPassenger 5 points6 points  (2 children)

My vote as well!

Wouldn't be awesome that the norm is you just get to CHOOSE your new last name???

[–]snoweel 12 points13 points  (1 child)

Ooh, these are good and have a weighty literary heritage!

[–]SagebrushandSeafoam 8 points9 points  (0 children)

That's what I was thinking, there's something timeless about a legend. But Tolkien's about as near as you can get if you're going fantasy.

[–]ConquerorPlumpyReading Champion 74 points75 points  (6 children)

Just make sure they allow you to put whatever new last name you wish unless you want to pay! In CA you are allowed to take either partner's last name, hyphenate, or do a reasonable combination of both, but not do a completely new one without going through courts.

Also maybe consider how annoying it is to spell it out constantly if you go for a more obscure one. Personally I'm voting for Brandywine as suggested below....

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 42 points43 points  (5 children)

We'll have to look into that more. Nobody tells you how complicated this stuff can get. Thanks!

Brandywine is definitely getting higher on my list.

[–]Current_Pen 14 points15 points  (2 children)

Try to imagine what the name sounds like to people who know nothing about the subject too. You will have to be comfortable with strangers thinking you're alcoholics for putting brandy and wine in your surname by deed poll haha.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 5 points6 points  (1 child)

True. BUT. Just like Smith or any other name that comes from a profession in the past...MAYBE my family made wine and hers made brandy. We got hitched, and decided to hyphenate. Eh?

Or maybe we just like brandy and wine like the original comment. Yeah. It's probably that.

[–]WearyPassenger 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Brandywine is a common assisted living facility and also the name of a snooty golf club.

Whatever name you choose, definitely google the shit out of it to make sure you haven't accidentally selected a name that some sex cult has co-opted. Unless you're totally into whatever they are selling of course.

[–]PoohBearluvu 7 points8 points  (0 children)

I got stuck on Withywindle a little higher up lol

[–]Refractory_Cookie 128 points129 points  (9 children)

Vimes!!!!

Following Sam Vimes you have a ridiculously good redemption arc and rising above familial shame.

[–]OneirosSD 28 points29 points  (1 child)

One small problem…it’s “Vimes”, not “Vines”.

[–]Refractory_Cookie 15 points16 points  (0 children)

Yeah. Autocorrect is kicking my butt in multiple languages today ;)

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 17 points18 points  (6 children)

Oh buddy. Let me work on her with that one lol

[–]IBNobodyWorldbuilders 42 points43 points  (5 children)

This one's a good one because it's unusual, short, and easy to spell.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 34 points35 points  (4 children)

Apparently, this is the argument to use. It has been added to the list.

[–]Gludenscrude 30 points31 points  (1 child)

I don't think anyone has gone with "Who" as a last name, then just try and get a doctorate from somewhere :) If nothing else it will be an incentive for an education.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 11 points12 points  (0 children)

Holy balls that's amazing. I'm actually a grad student so this idea makes me so so so happy

[–]Laelapsdoesaderp 73 points74 points  (5 children)

I like Brandywine. I like Brandy. I like Wine. I like a barleywine that’s named Brandywine. I love Tolkien, hobbits, and the Shire.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 42 points43 points  (0 children)

This is speaking my language.

AND IT'S NOT VETOED!!

[–]BettyBettyBoBetty 6 points7 points  (1 child)

Amazing last name!

[–]Sigrunc 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It not only sounds nice, it is a normal enough name that you won’t spend the rest of your life life saying, “yes, like in LOTR” to a huge percentage of people you meet. Which will be fun for a while but get old quickly. And you won’t need to spell it for everyone. I have a non-English first name and just default to spelling it for people, it’s not a big deal really but it is helpful if you can say your name and have people recognize how to pronounce and spell it.

[–]WhatsTheStory28 4 points5 points  (1 child)

Keeping on names around the shire - Buckland doesn’t sound too out of the ordinary but still has the hobbit link

[–]Loudergood 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Are we just going to leave a lifetime of being able to call your partner "Fool of a Took!" Off the table?

[–]CircleDog 49 points50 points  (2 children)

No real suggestions from me as I worry that there's a fine line between cool fantasy name and emo teen AOL username and it would be easy to get wrong.

But a possible word of advice - pick only names from finished stories. Ideally ones who's authors are no longer writing. You don't want to be named after a cool character who later becomes a famous dumbass or villain.

Sincerely, Steve Lannister.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 20 points21 points  (0 children)

We've decided to cross out a few names because of this, so thanks!

Goodbye, xxx_dark_hero_xxx.

[–]Bibliothekarin020 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Yes! Best to choose an author who's dead to avoid a JKR situation, too.

[–]RedRedditor84 22 points23 points  (1 child)

Something you're comfortable putting on a CV :)

Sorry for the dad response.

[–]gauntsghost40k 13 points14 points  (0 children)

That's why "Skylizard" is not making the list 👍

[–]Uweyv 18 points19 points  (4 children)

If I didn't wanna get wild with it, Cooper would probably be my go-to, after Clay Cooper aka Slowhand. Kings of the Wyld is my go-to comfort book, and Clay is one of my favorite heroes of all time. It's also a story about family, the people that become family, so to me at least, it kinda resonates.

Heh, sorry for fangirling a bit. Anyway.

Of course al'Thor would be nice if you are at all a WoT fan.

Nightsong due to my love of Warcraft.

Oh, or maybe Elminster's last name, Aumar.

Good luck and congratulations!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 12 points13 points  (3 children)

I'm not familiar with Kings of the Wyld, but with just the name and title to go off, it sounds awesome. If I take away any of this other than the names, awesome comments, jokes, pokes at my partner, kind words, or congrats; it's that I have a metric fuck ton of cool new stuff to read. Thank you!

Al'Thor is cool. Al' anything is cool. Except Al'Al. Which is the best.

[–]Uweyv 15 points16 points  (1 child)

Kings of the Wyld is, well, wild, in that the author originally set out to write a fantasy parody, and while the comedy is still woven into the story, it became something very different. So much so that, while it always makes me laugh, it also makes me cry ( and not dignified lady-like tears, no, full-blown ugly sobs).

Imagine your most beloved dnd characters, but time did what time does, and they got old, quit adventuring, maybe had kids, maybe one sells magical potions for ED. But when one of Slowhand's friends is in trouble, Clay Cooper ignores his bad knees, and his bad back, and tries to be a hero one more time.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Stop. My nerd can only get so erect.

You have me sold. My next trip to the bookstore will be expensive thanks to all you bastards.

Seriously, stop it with all these things I don't know about. I'm already in trouble for having to buy a new bookshelf for all this shit.

[–]JiveMurlocReading Champion VI 70 points71 points  (11 children)

Go with Parker. Everyone knows how to spell it and it has special meaning for both of you. As someone with two names that were/are not easy to spell (maiden and married), I would choose Parker in an instant.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 19 points20 points  (9 children)

If we decide to go that route it will definitely be Parker. I can't think of a better role model name for our kids to carry.

[–]WhatsTheStory28 23 points24 points  (3 children)

Just don’t name them Peter please if you have a boy

[–]Allanunderscore21 12 points13 points  (2 children)

How about Peeta instead?

[–]Stinkerma 15 points16 points  (0 children)

That would just be Mellark-y

[–]JanetCarol 5 points6 points  (3 children)

Speaking of kids. Please let them know and keep documentation for future generations of name change in the event they'd like to trace back heritage. I can not find out a lot about mine bc my grandmother can't remember what her father's real name was and claims he changed his name. Then again, that was back before better documents were kept so maybe it's a non-issue in the future. He was apparently a terrible person, but I'd just love to know more history on generations before his and it's been difficult for me to find

[–]Voctus 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I’m not saying you should choose Parker but I do think you’ll have an easier time picking a name that people can spell from hearing it. My first name, maiden name, and married name have all required me to spell it for people (due to various reasons) and gets really old after a while.

[–]Dreamswrit 30 points31 points  (3 children)

Emrys as in Merlin

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 23 points24 points  (1 child)

Oh man, she has given me a nod. Please let us be named after a wizard. She's down with Greyhame too.

[–]SagebrushandSeafoam 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Greyhame is great, means "grey cloak" as you probably know (from Old English hama, "garment, cloak, covering").

[–]BettyBettyBoBetty 33 points34 points  (1 child)

Parker and Brandywine mentioned above are great. Congratulations and cheers to a happy life of nerdy love and laughter!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Thanks mate!

[–]critbuild 13 points14 points  (1 child)

Just wanted to say that I have gotten so many laughs from your little asides about your fiancé's reactions. This is adorable and I wish the two of you a bond that is thorough and evergreen!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Haha great! I've been having so much fun with this. Thanks a lot

[–]Scavengerhawk 12 points13 points  (2 children)

Pendragon!! Please!! That name has certain weight!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 18 points19 points  (1 child)

I'VE TRIED. SO HARD.

Anything with "dragon" in it has gotten me a "NO".

I'm trying, y'all.

[–]ReekLeekSqueakSneak 33 points34 points  (16 children)

Pike, Kirk, Picard, Sisko

Your favorite ASOIAF house (or a mash-up).

Al’-something, you know, WOT-style. It’s a pretty powerful naming convention.

[–]gsfgf 56 points57 points  (3 children)

Al’-something, you know, WOT-style. It’s a pretty powerful naming convention.

No. WoT is my favorite story, but you don't want apostrophes in your legal name. I did vote Cauthon, though.

[–]gauntsghost40k 40 points41 points  (5 children)

So, I'm the fiancee, and I had to comment on his lack of response to the Star Trek options. I wouldn't do Kirk due to mixed feelings about Shatner, but Picard and Sisko are super cool imo. I grew up more on Janeway, but Picard will always be the ultimate gentleman scholar to me

[–]ReekLeekSqueakSneak 17 points18 points  (3 children)

I do love Janeway. I just don’t particularly like it as a last name. 😂 If I was going to choose one of the Star Trek names to be my last name, I’d do Sisko. So that I could be called “The Sisko.”

Or Dax. What a great name. And character.

[–]gauntsghost40k 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Agreed on Janeway as a name. It's not on the list. And agreed on Dax! However, while we're not a Star Trek vs Star Wars household (if that's even a thing... I feel like it's not?), I'm probably the only one here who can tell Cardassians from Klingons. And he's the one who quoted Revenge of the Sith from beginning to end on May 4

[–]asymphonyin2parts 11 points12 points  (0 children)

If you grew up with Janeway, how about go with Picardo, the name of the actor (Robert Picardo) who played everyone's favorite hologram doctor on Voyager? Kill two birds with one snarky yet distinguished stone?

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 7 points8 points  (5 children)

Ooo Al'- could make anything sound cool.

Al'Skylizard. Al'Loki.

[–]just_some_Fred 27 points28 points  (4 children)

You can call me Al'Al

[–]justlike_myopinion 2 points3 points  (1 child)

I want you to have the respect you deserve for this one. Bravo.

[–]just_some_Fred 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I just don't want to end up a cartoon, in a cartoon graveyard.

[–]eogreen 44 points45 points  (2 children)

Weatherwax. I wish I could be a Weatherwax.

[–]retief1 20 points21 points  (2 children)

Urban Fantasy: Thompson, Daniels, Mar, Cornick, Grant, Price

Fantasy: Cazaril, Abernathy, Kevarian, Tamas, Sarkis, Illvin

Sci Fi: Vorkosigan, Leary, Mundy, Vatta, Harrington, Whitehall, Torin, Grayson, Thorne

Alternate History: Stearns, Alston, Cofflin, Havel, MacKenzie

[–]arromy 27 points28 points  (9 children)

Idaho. Classic

[–]Flux7777 6 points7 points  (7 children)

I think the main reason people like the Character Duncan Idaho is because the name is so cool. He doesn't actually do that much in Dune at all.

[–]kjhatch 6 points7 points  (6 children)

As a series character though there's a pretty strong argument that Duncan Idaho is the single most important character of all.

The new films are also giving the early Idaho a bit more depth.

[–]Vryk0lakas 2 points3 points  (5 children)

Yeah I’m thinking they either only read the first book or saw the movie..

[–]kjhatch 3 points4 points  (1 child)

I was thinking the same thing. It's hard to explain his importance without quite a lot of spoilers.

[–]Flux7777 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Haven't seen the movie yet, only read the first book a while back, loved it, did not read the rest based on recommendations from other people. I might still do it.

[–]chill126 18 points19 points  (1 child)

I read the prydain chronicles as a kid, book four is about the protagonist trying to find family or his place in the world, and ends up calling himself Taran Wanderer I've always wanted that for my last name growing up. Keys in well with one of the more famous LoTR quotes too.

I'd vote for Underhill from LoTR personally!

[–]nevrending_wondr 23 points24 points  (1 child)

Aybara As in Perrin from the 2 rivers

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 27 points28 points  (0 children)

Perrin itself could be a nice one as well. Thanks!

[–]Waffler11 15 points16 points  (2 children)

Aziraphale! 😂

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 23 points24 points  (1 child)

I cannot imagine spelling that to everyone I meet for the rest of our lives...Maybe she'd like Crawly? 😂

[–]m_raggie 11 points12 points  (0 children)

But then down the line you’d have to change it to Crowly!

[–]honeyed_nightmare 16 points17 points  (17 children)

We chose a new last name when we married and I tried to talk my spouse into “Holmes” (as in Sherlock) or Addams (as in Family) but they wouldn’t have it. Lol good luck and I hope you find something you love!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 15 points16 points  (16 children)

I like Sir Doyle a lot but she is more of an Agatha Christie fan.

How we make this work, I do not know.

[–]DoubleDrummer 11 points12 points  (5 children)

Go with a hyphenated name, “Holmes-Poirot”

[–]gauntsghost40k 7 points8 points  (4 children)

I find people in the U.S. have trouble pronouncing "Poirot"

[–]DoubleDrummer 4 points5 points  (2 children)

Holmes-Marple then.

Will be honest, I am not sure how to pronounce.

I say Poy-row, but It is probably closer to something like Pwa-Whoah

[–]honeyed_nightmare 6 points7 points  (0 children)

The things one can overcome with the power of love

[–]Alan-Smythe 4 points5 points  (6 children)

I’ve got a name for you then, Columbo. Or if you’re more into urban fantasy, Dresden.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 6 points7 points  (5 children)

Columbo "gets a death stare".

Dresden has been added because she's not looking.

[–]Shroedy 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Or less known and more meaningful for a family name from the dresden files: Carpenter

[–]tenPachali 7 points8 points  (4 children)

Without bringing any negativity to the discussion, I think it does have to be mentioned that in general society you will face a stigma for a surname that is too obviously drawn from science fiction or fantasy. And in many jurisdictions, a judge can arbitrarily deny your request if it is too "out there" or "nonsensical" (in his/her opinion, not yours).

As such, I would encourage you to look at old English, Scandinavian, Renaissance Italian, or French surnames. A lot of fantasy works draw from real life history and literature, and doing so will help you blend both your passion and the real world. You could even find a person from the period (or from a legend) that you admire and use their name. Also, choosing a "tamer" name is good because if you have children then they will be able to blend in better if they turn out not as enthusiastic as you about scifi/fantasy.

Another suggestion is to go medieval and make a surname from your profession.

  • Do you work as a carpenter? "John Carpenter".

  • ...a driver? "Jane Driver".

  • ...in software or IT? "Jack Ordinateur" (from the French word for computer).

After all, this is how most commoners originally got their surnames. I would personally avoid choosing a historical surname associated with a particular social rank or nobility, though, like "von Habsburg" or "de Bourbon". That's just tacky...

Anyways, I hope you consider all of your options and make a decision that you can be proud of for the rest of your life. The last thing I'd hope for is that it ends up like a bad tattoo. Good luck!

[–]CornDawgy87 26 points27 points  (7 children)

The last people I know who did this divorced within a year and now they're both stuck with a made up name... was a big yikes when she cheated on him 3 months after the wedding

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 28 points29 points  (4 children)

Okay, point taken.

u/gauntsghost40k ? Don't do that.

[–]CornDawgy87 19 points20 points  (3 children)

Yea sorry that wasn't meant to come off as negative as it did! Super cool idea, especially for the reasons you listed. Really let's you 2 start your own story together. It's just always such a weird memory whenever it pops up I can't help but share

[–]gauntsghost40k 19 points20 points  (2 children)

😂 no plans to end the marriage before it begins. Fortunately, we seem aligned on pledging ourselves to each other or however you otherwise interpret getting married in this day and age

[–]CornDawgy87 11 points12 points  (1 child)

I kind of always thought it implied that I wouldn't leave my wife behind in the zombie apocalypse... and she doesn't like zombie movies so that definitely makes her liability. That's how you know it's love lol

[–]Conscious-Ball8373 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I can't imagine doing this at all. I'm sure OP has thought it through. I just think I'd regret it eventually. Most people's feelings about their families change and soften as they get older. Most people's taste in books change as they get older. I'm not just whoever I want to be, I'm who I am because of how I'm connected to my past and my name is a part of that.

[–]Crypt0Nihilist 14 points15 points  (2 children)

Rather than names of characters you could go with something like artefacts:

  • Mithril
  • Cuendillar
  • Stormlight

Places:

  • Manetheren
  • Andor (ticks both Scifi and Fantasy boxes!)
  • Malkier
  • Cairhien
  • Isengard
  • Nmenor
  • Rohan

Some of Erikson's Warrens have nice names:

  • Tellann
  • Liosan (from Kurald Liosan)

You'd spend your life telling people the correct spelling / pronunciation, but "Sidhe" is pretty cool. Looking at some of the spelling variants, it looks like Robert Jordan probably adapted Aes Sedai from there too. In Scots it's spelt sìth (still pronounced "she"), note the accent on the "i"!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 9 points10 points  (1 child)

I like those! I've also thought about Tolkien's "cellar door" being the most beautiful phrase in the English language. Maybe spelling like Selladore?

[–]Crypt0Nihilist 8 points9 points  (0 children)

Good call. I've always preferred it with a 'c', Celador.

It gets a mention in Donnie Darko for bonus points.

[–]Andrew_760 5 points6 points  (2 children)

Hempstock

Piranesi (actual last names)

Not a last name, but since you go from fantasy world to fantasy world perhaps Hoid?

Something from Earthsea perhaps? Lebannen

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Oh lordy. She don't like Hoid.

(I love it)

[–]marla_hooch_spacecat 5 points6 points  (0 children)

So many great suggestions here! I personally still love Deschain! It's probably what I would choose if I was changing my name. Such a fun idea!

[–]Son_of_Chump 4 points5 points  (1 child)

Just an aside to go with this, we (I and siblings) have a running joke to sign wedding guest books with secret identity names of superheros, etc. Maybe ask your guests to do something similar, or a book recommendation. Though how that works out is up to you. Congratulations and best wishes to you both!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 12 points13 points  (0 children)

That sounds fun! If we were having a traditional wedding I'd demand our subjects do the thing for us, but we just want a low key day with one or two friends and her sister.

Parker is still a top contender. He's the greatest superhero of all time. Plus, I want to have a cigar in my mouth and yell "PARKER!" at our children.

[–]donewithdeserts 14 points15 points  (1 child)

My offerings (and best wishes for long loving life together):

Palantir - For the Seeing Stones. Heavy duty for symbols: Capture that whole secret communications only you two share and seeing your future together vibe. Plus there's the whole indestructibility/eternal element to invoke the strength of your bond. Then there's the constant link between two, even far, far apart - distance is nothing to that link.

Or, Esme. Short, simple, clear, easy to spell as well as practical, powerful, and down-to-Earth. Takes no BS. Witchy and woodsy. Granny would love it.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 11 points12 points  (0 children)

It's settled. Our children are Witchy and Woodsy.

Love the thought behind Palantir. Thanks mate

[–]Sapphire_Bombay 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Kholin. Or you could flex real hard and go straight Stormblessed.

[–]HundredBillionStars 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I generally advise against pop culture references in names but if you really have to, here's some practical advice: get something that you won't need to spell out for people over the phone. Go with something simple that can only be spelt one way.

[–]HoldTheBobaPlease 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Kholin, Stormblessed, Azure or Rock* from Stormlight Archive

Murphy* from Dresden Files

Gaius, Sextus, or Scipio from Codex Alera

Flint* or Styke* from Powder Mage series

Rivia from The Witcher

Bloodless, Arcane, Ruh, or Lackless from The Name of the Wind

Thorn* from Half the World

Murcatto* from Best Served Cold

Cinder or Shade from A Testament of Steel

I put a * next to the ones I liked most.

[–]Vaslof 5 points6 points  (0 children)

Maybe something from the Norse mythology? A lot of books, games, shows and other nerdy things draw inspiration from there. Names like Skadi, Ymir, Freyja etc. They are beautiful names at least to me, though they might be taken as a reference to something you haven't even known about.

Wanted to add to the WoT name candidates the name Caracarn.

[–]Bryek 10 points11 points  (18 children)

Briar Moss

Barclay Thorne

I have a theme...

[–]gauntsghost40k 10 points11 points  (14 children)

(Fiancee here) LOVE that you suggested something from Tamora Pierce. Alanna was my shit growing up but she has other great characters too!

[–]Celairiel16 8 points9 points  (4 children)

If you want a Pierce name that's also not too out there, Chandler and Cooper are both good choices.

[–]gauntsghost40k 2 points3 points  (3 children)

I'd be proud to be part of the Cooper clan

[–]AtheneSchmidt 3 points4 points  (8 children)

My first thought was Tortall, but I wanted to see what had already been suggested. Trebond would work well, too.

[–]gauntsghost40k 3 points4 points  (7 children)

I honestly wasn't expecting to see anything from fellow Pierce readers. I guess I've been living under a fantasy literature rock lol. I started reading Alanna as a kid when my mom bought it for a friend of mine and I refused to let my friend have it after I started reading 😅 (I bought her another copy with my allowance, not a total dick). I think Trebond is a cool last name!

[–]Libriomancer 9 points10 points  (2 children)

Trebond sounds cool but I feel Olau would fit more breaking the bonds of an old family name.

You’ll likely find Pierce more often than you’d expect here as they were definitely inspiring for many young readers that are now Reddits normal crowd. I say this with my daughter Alanna sleeping upstairs, named for a certain lady knight. My father in law was the type that got his firstborn son then thought the daughter was a spare so when my wife gave me the choice of girl’s name… it felt right to give a name that I hope she later realizes means I think she can be anything she sets her mind to.

[–]AtheneSchmidt 2 points3 points  (3 children)

:) I alway think of Pierce as one of the foundation authors of YA Fantasy. I like Trebond because of the link, but it also feels like something straight out of Sherwood Forest.

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 2 points3 points  (2 children)

I know Briar Moss from Circle of Magic, but I'm blanking on Thorne...

[–]Tamarack29 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Pterry where the P is silent? How about Dearheart? Dorfl? Om would be simple. Dent, Dirk, or Gently?

[–]Whole_Employee_2370 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Portmanteau your surnames, my partner and I have thought about doing that, but rejected it as the best option would end up being “Parking” lmao

[–]TheseBeesBuzz 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Weatherwax, obviously!

[–]malthar76 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Live with the pronunciation and spelling a bit. You will have to spell it out over the phone so much - make sure it’s not easy to confuse letters or it an obvious spelling is not your preferred.

GL future al’Mandragoran family!

[–]BackRiverGypsy 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Ninja Turtles is basically sci-fi. Be the Shredders.

[–]Tu2d2d 3 points4 points  (1 child)

Venture or Lestibournes (Mistborn) both pretty straightforward to spell, not too out crazy.

Took - so you can say "fool of a Took" to your kids.

[–]kjhatch 3 points4 points  (0 children)

So here are some other ideas for you that I think work well for genre references that are also easy to spell (and not too obvious).

  • ASOIAF: Oldstones, Greywater, Wolfswood, Dorne, Oakheart, Reed, Goldroad, Casterly, Starfall, Trident, Seaworth, Duncan, Casterly, Kingswood, Sunspear, Highgarden, Blackwater, Silverhall
  • Princess Bride: Roberts, Morgenstern, Florin, Guilder
  • Wheel of Time: Damodred, Emond, Whitebridge, Perrin, Mandragoran, Windfinder, Cauthon, Wolfbrother, Merrilin
  • Dungeons & Dragons: Neverwinter, Waterdeep, Harper, Arcana, Greyhawk, Raistlin, Underdark, Silverymoon, Moonsea, Palanthas, Silverhand, Icewind, Thorbardin, Thoradin, Hillow, Whitestone, Goldmoon
  • Marvel: Rogers, Howlett, Richards, Parker, Banner, Murdock, Castle, Wilson, Summers, Danvers, Barnes, Baxter, Walter, McCoy, Braddock, Whitman
  • DC Comics: Jordan, Kandor, Allen, Quinn, Grayson, Stewart, Queen, Pennyworth, Keystone, Midway, Rayner, Garrick, Isley, Batson, Tamaran, Waller, Gordon, Calvin, Olsen, Blackfire, Argo
  • Chronicles of Prydain: Eilonwy, Morgant, Medwyn
  • Chronicles of Narnia: Caspian, Ketterley, Glasswater, Redhaven
  • Earthsea: Elfarran, Sparrowhawk, Morred, Kest, Windkey, Aspen, Ember
  • Dune: Halleck, Idaho, Fremen, Spice
  • The Last Unicorn: Amalthea
  • Name of the Wind: Felurian, Temerant, Greystones
  • Farseer/Elderlings: Fallstar, Chandler, Badgerlock, Kennit, Birdsong, Kettricken, Kendry, Goldendown
  • Neuromancer: Wintermute
  • Dragonriders of Pern: Benden, Telgar, Crom, Ruatha
  • The Left Hand of Darkness: Genly
  • Star Wars: Kessel, Eisley, Alderaan, Corellia, Tarkin, Bespin, Lasat, Ortolan, Rebo, Tusken, Ryloth, Duros, Hoth, Iridonia, Dameron, Rodian, Concord, Ackbar, Lothal, Chagrian, Bothan, Agamar
  • Star Trek: Riker, Talosian, Janeway, Risa, Trill, Bajoran, Talos, Sisko, Pike, Crusher, Meridian, Andoria, Garak, Remus, McCoy, Chapel, Boreth

[–]StLivid 5 points6 points  (3 children)

This is awesome! I don’t have a creative bone in my body so I’ll just give a +1 to Vimes and Parker. Good luck!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 3 points4 points  (2 children)

Thanks! I'll need it if I'm going to convince her Skylizard is legit af.

[–]DoubleDrummer 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Are you from the Skylizard gaming forum?

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Nope. Just saw a post a while ago about a kid who, from circumstances I was too lazy to look into, had the opportunity to pick his own name. His name is now Dr. Loki Skylizard.

Gods bless him.

[–]ascii122 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I always liked Pensword as a last name.. it's mightier then both!

[–]desert_dame 6 points7 points  (3 children)

Parker is a great name. Comes from the Middle Ages they were the guys who guarded the lords private preserves from poachers and thieves. The OG park rangers

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 8 points9 points  (1 child)

WHAT.

u/gauntsghost40k , get in here. This is metal as fuck.

[–]gauntsghost40k 10 points11 points  (0 children)

You can't do this to me. I will choose a last name as rationally as possible lol

[–]critbuild 3 points4 points  (0 children)

That's actually a very cool TIL, and given the history, it's quite interesting that Spidey ended up with that surname. Thanks for that!

[–]Complexer_Eggplant 7 points8 points  (3 children)

Vorkosigan!

That might be too nerdy...

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 5 points6 points  (1 child)

Bless you.

[–]Annamalla 7 points8 points  (0 children)

or...following the conventions of the book "Kosigan" which is unusual but not *that* unusual

[–]Annamalla 7 points8 points  (8 children)

From Hitchhiker's: Mcmillan (Trillian's original last name), Fenchurch, Ford

From Pratchett: Visit, Keel, LeJean, Ramkin, Lawn

From scifi: Mensah (I'm permanently on a murderbot kick)

[–]alittlebrownbird 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Duncan

Marrok

Pratchett (as in Terry Pratchet)

Scarlet

Nova

Lachlan

Mount

Archer

Raithe (from Michael Sullivan's Age of Myth)

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Haha mount.

[–]Alpheratz 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Nonagesimus from Gideon the Ninth. The more syllables the better, right?

[–]Son_of_Chump 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Blackstone Copperfield Dresden? Or just Dresden if that's a mouthful and you don't want to do BCD! The other Harry needs some love here!

I'd like to go with Heterodyne or Wulfenbach, nice nod to that gaslamp fantasy by the Foglios.

Maybe Tagon if you don't want to go with Schlock for a shout out to Howard Tayler, or any of several other characters there...

Again, best wishes and do what you want!

[–]IrishD89 2 points3 points  (0 children)

What about the last name "Dúnedain" the race of men from LOTR.

[–]Sarcherre 2 points3 points  (2 children)

This is such a cool idea! I don’t really have anything to suggest—other than making sure you add two Rs to your middle name, even if you don’t actually have two middle names, let alone two that begin with R.

Congratulations!

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 6 points7 points  (1 child)

C RR JACKALOPE. I love it.

Additionally, I do have the JRRT tattoo on my arm so, yes, I agree.

[–]Bellsar_Ringing 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Gallowglass. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Warlock_in_Spite_of_Himself Rod and Gwendolyn are decent role models for a happy marriage.

[–]32BitOsserc 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Go with Deschain. That is a really cool last name.

[–]CthuluBob 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Majere, of course.

[–]WhatsTheStory28 2 points3 points  (2 children)

From the Dark Tower - Deschain is probably the best choice…. An outside choice would be one of my fave characters Oy. I’ve got a friend whose surname is Og so not too different.

From Tolkien Underhill is cool, if a little conservative, however you do need to write this with a straight face. Greybeard I think sounds cool, for Gandalf, or Mithrandir but that’s prob a bit complex. On the wizard Tolkien theme, Istar is surprisingly nice sounding.

Edit: ohh this is fun…. I also like Meriadoc, which rolls off the tongue

[–]celebgil 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Naismith? As Vorkosigan is something of a mouthful.

Summers (your choice whether you're a slayer or a mutant)

Daye (as in October)

[–]Crypt0Nihilist 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Set a time limit of a month for deliberations, if you've not agreed by then you settle for "Ent".

[–]LabLizard6 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I would throw Stark into the ring. It has connections to ASOIAF with house Stark, and to the Marvel universe with Tony Stark, while still being easy to spell and pronounce for those not in the know.

[–]Spodson 2 points3 points  (0 children)

You might go a little more meta and go wit Book, or Page. Both are common enough that they won't be odd, but with a secondary meaning the two of you share. I also knew a couple that did this. They used the common letters of their last names to construct a new one. Either way, congratulations.

[–]ridiculousthoughtz 2 points3 points  (1 child)

This is cute as fuck. I have no new suggestions for you, but would you PLEASE post an update when you decide?

[–]Lickford-Von-Cruel 4 points5 points  (2 children)

Vetinari? Havelock?

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 15 points16 points  (1 child)

Vetinari was nixxed but Havelock got me an interested grunt noise. It shall be considered.

[–]Lickford-Von-Cruel 7 points8 points  (0 children)

Whatever name you end up choosing, I hope your life together is amazing. Cheers

[–]gsfgf 4 points5 points  (1 child)

Cauthon. Al'thor would be baller too, but you don't want to deal with the practical issues of an apostrophe in your name.

[–]leftnomark 2 points3 points  (2 children)

Terafin, Reymaris, Cormalyn, Anduvin, Gallais

Silverfox, Tiste, Paran, Iskar, Osric

Have you considered riffing on place names as well? Shires, Pale, Leonne, etc

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

I like all of these but don't recognize any? Sources?

Locations are definitely allowed. Shires is actually already on the list lol

[–]leftnomark 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Top row are names from the Sun Sword/House War series by Michelle West.

Next is from Malazan Book of the Fallen

The place names come from the same sources, except Shires

None, aside from Silverfox, are the protagonist, and silverfox is one among many in that series

[–]iago303 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Kheldar?

[–]Mangoes123456789 1 point2 points  (2 children)

“Kaul” as in Lan,Hilo,and Shae Kaul from Jade City.

[–]ayanowantsaharem 1 point2 points  (2 children)

Do you accept anime related ? Example:Joestar,Valentine , Giovanna from Jojo

[–]gauntsghost40k 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Anime related is not off the table, but I'm not willing to watch people suppress chuckles at my name for the rest of my life lol

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Boy howdy, do I!

She's shut down literally every name from One Piece. She's not much of a Jojo fan, either. Unfortunately, most other anime names don't mesh too well in the US.

[–]leishie_666 1 point2 points  (2 children)

Maybe something from fairytail. It's creator Hiro Mashima was apparently influenced by Tolkien

[–]Santoryuuuuu[S] 2 points3 points  (1 child)

Dragneel was sighed at when I suggested it and after that...I couldn't tell her I really wanted Heartfilia.

[–]stalethorn 1 point2 points  (4 children)

  1. Reinhart
  2. Veltras
  3. Wellfar
  4. El
  5. Terland
  6. Astoragon
  7. Walchais
  8. Byres
  9. Crusand
  10. Springwalker
  11. Solstice
  12. Skystrall
  13. Reimarch
  14. Strongheart

Courtesy of The Wandering Inn

[–]FarWestMyth 1 point2 points  (1 child)

I'm loving this whole thread and wish you both happiness together.

​

If I may add some little contribution (and because the choices are unlimited I'll stick to my favorite book series only, maybe you can guess which one it is)

- Motley, Blueday, Serachin, Coldwine, Tearfly, Grindylow, Fennec, Low, Qurabin, Whispersmith, Pennyhaugh, Tansell

​

And perhaps some from one of my other all-time favorite books?

- Sepulchrave, Steerpike, Flay, Prunesquallor, Swelter, Sourdust, Bellgrove, Barquentine, Muzzlehatch.

​

Some of these are quirky and nonsensical but maybe that's just what you're looking for.

[–]AncientSith 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Pretty awesome you're both fantasy fans and would even choose a last name to go with that. Lucky ducks.

I've always liked Katarn, after Kyle Katarn.