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MONOGRAMMING ETIQUETTE

Monogramming has always been a special way of creating gifts and items that are truly personal and unique to the individual.

And there are century old rules that can be followed. While of course we don't want to break with this tradition completely,

there are many ways that your monogram can be designed to match your personal style! 

 

Listed below are the traditional guidelines that we follow. But remember, it is your monogram - you decide!

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Female

 

 

SINGLE

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ESM

First * Last * Middle

"S" Last Name is larger

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ESM

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MARRIED

 

ECS

First * Last * Maiden

"C" Last Name is larger

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ECS

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If you are giving a gift to a bride and are not sure if they are using their middle name or married name in their monogram, default to maiden name.

 

NO MIDDLE INITIAL

 

ES

First * Last

Both same size

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ES

 

 

This is a popular style for teachers and friends whose maiden name or middle name you may not know.

Male

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JMS

First * Middle * Last

(All letters same size)

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JMS

Both of these styles are traditional. With monograms for guys, or boys, it is all about personal preference.

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JSM

First * Last * Middle

"S"Last Name is larger

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JSM

Married Couple

TRADITIONAL

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ECR

Wife First * Last * Husband First

"C" Last Name is larger

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ECR

The style on the left is a traditional monogram for a married couple. 

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For couples keeping both last names, the style on the right is a simple way to manage 

DOUBLE LAST NAME

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ESCR

Wife First * Wife Last *

Husband Last * Husband First

 "S" "C" Last Names are larger

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ESCR

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CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:

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  • First name, Family Name, or First and Last Initial are always perfectly acceptable.

  • First name for a new baby, toddler or 'tween gift is popular.

  • Last name for a family gift or hostess gift always works.

  • Single first initials are always safe -- and a great way to use a really fun monogram style.

  • Single last initials are great with longer last names on small pieces, on drinkware, or just to keep it simple.

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Note:

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Every once in a while the monogram and the design don't work well together. For example, sometimes a "D' looks like an "O" or an "I" may appear to look like a simple line. Don't stress!! We are here to help you make the perfect design.

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Once you've determined how you would like the initials of your monogram to appear, take a look at our monogram styles.

We have something for everyone -- traditional, elegant, simple, whimsical or modern. See all of our monogram styles here.

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