Ahh! You're just like me! Tess(a) is definately one of my top 2 favorite girl names at the moment, if not my favorite. But just like you, I can't stand
Teresa. I think it can definately stand on its own, at least that's how I'd use it. I still can't decide whether I prefer
Tess or
Tessa though. I really love both, but think I'd lean toward
Tess just a little bit. I find it a tough name to pair with mns. Have you come up with anything?