Simply by definition a "monogram" is a design consisting of one or more alphabetic letters combined or interlaced, commonly one's initials, often printed on stationery, embroidered on clothing, etc. (dictionary.com) but monogramming is so much more!!! A monogram imprinted or stitched on an item gives it personality, it adds style and character, it signifies a long history of traditionally identifying one's personal belongings. Monogrammed items also make wonderful gifts. When giving monogrammed items as gifts there is some special etiquette rule to follow, especially when it comes to the three letter monogram which seems to be one of the most popular and trendy monograms today.
Monogramming Etiquette
A three letter monogram for an individual person can be listed in two ways:
1) In the traditional Victorian format, a three letter monogram places the last name initial larger in the middle with the first name initial being first and the middle initial being last. So with my name Corrina Marie Dea, my three letter monogram would be CDM with the D being bigger.
2) Now if I wanted to keep all three initials the same size I would list them out in order of my name so you would put it as CMD.
Three Letter Monogram for Couples
If you are giving a wedding gift to a newly married couple (or existing couple) and want to incorporate both of their names in the monogram, the etiquette honestly depends on your recipients preference.
1) Make it ladies first by listing the bride's first initial then the last name initial large in the middle and the groom's first initial as the last letter in the monogram.
2) If they are more Mr and Mrs, then list the groom's initial first followed by the last name initial of the couple in the larger letter followed by the lovely bride's initial.
It is also socially acceptable for a married woman to use her maiden name's initial as her last (third initial).
1) Baby items are great for a single initial especially if parents tend to use the same first name initial for all their kids. My friend had two little girls with names starting with A and these baby burp cloths and wash cloth made a special personalized gift that got multiple uses!
2) Ladies love to have their first name initial highlighted on their handbags, scarves, hats and more.
3) Add a last name initial to totes, bags, and blankets are great to highlight your family name and make it easy to identify at a group gathering (except probably a family reunion).
4) Make a super simple little dress into a classic monogrammed gown for your little princess.
5) There are so many create places to put monogram to exemplify your own personal "brand" of confidence and class.
6) Add monograms to bridesmaid and groomsman gifts to make the big day special for everyone. These are super simple button white shirts I made up for a lovely bridal party that all the girls got to wear as they were getting their hair and make up done and prepping the bride for her big day.
7) This robe was a gift from a group of friends to a special woman during her fight with cancer. If you have to go through something that doesn't feel so glamorous there isn't any reason you can look glamorous while fighting the big fight.
8) Christmas stocking often get names added to them, but a swirly infinity font monogram is simple, classic but looks amazing when matching it up with your tree skirt with a single initial.
9) Probably the funnest thing I've added a monogram to is a pair of sneakers. This just screams, I am confident and love to stand out in the room because I'm a classy chic.
Monogramming has a very traditional background but today about anything can go. Have fun with what you have your monogram put on and just get creative with fonts, colors, sizes, and placement. Monogrammed items make amazing gifts for others and something special to do for yourself.
