How can you take a $6.00 bag and make it look like it cost so much more? Simple~add a monogram. Monogramming isn’t just for bath towels anymore
. These days you can monogram just about anything from car windows to plates to stationery to lunch boxes to cake toppers.
Question:
What is the difference between a traditional and a block or contemporary monogram?
Answer: A traditional monogram would have three letters with the last name initial set in the center and slightly larger and the first name initial to the left and middle name initial to the right. For example ~ Kimberly Shoemaker Waite would be KWS. A block or contemporary monogram feature initials of the same size placed in consecutive order. Kimberly Shoemaker Waite would be KSW.
Single initials have become very popular. They add a personal touch and are a nice way to personalize when a full monogram is too much.
Question:What is the correct order of initials for a married monogram?
Answer:The first letter of the couple’s last name (surname) is larger and in the middle with the wife’s first initial on the left and the husband’s first initial on the right. For example, the monogram for Jon and Kim Waite would read KWJ. An easy way to remember the order is to recall the old adage “ladies first”. Another question that arises is what if the person does not go by his or her “formal” first name? For instance my brother’s name is Marshall Bradley Shoemaker but he goes by Brad. He and his wife, Traci, may prefer to write their married monogram as TSB rather than TSM . Both are acceptable, it’s just a matter or preference. Monograms add a unique and personal touch to an item or gift. Married monograms are presently quite popular not only on stationery, but also on linens, soaps, candles, doormats and other house wares.
Question:
How do you write a monogram for someone who has a double or hyphenated last names? For example~
Jill St. John (last name is two-part)
Candy Joynes Jones (two last names)
Richard Leggam-Smith (last name is hyphenated)
Answer:
The monograms would be as follows:
Jill St. John ~ JStJ
Candy Joynes Jones ~ CJJ
Richard Leggam-Smith ~ RLS
In the cases above, the individuals would omit their middle initial.
Question: What is a duogram?
Answer: A duogram is a combination of two people’s initials while keeping them separate. A married couple may choose this monogram if the wife retains her maiden name. For instance, Letitia Baldrige and Robert Hollensteiner would appear LB RH.
When it comes to monogramming, your imagination is your only limitation. Check out these great monogram ideas~
