Monograms never go out of style!
Through 48 years of marriage, our beloved collection of silver frames, like our family, continues to grow!
What is a monogram?
Monograms are usually three intertwined initials to create one symbol, with the surname initial centered and the largest of the three initials. A monogram can also be your name initials in a straight row, all the same size, and preferably with a period between the initials.
I adore monograms! They contribute to that darling “timeless and tailored” design aspect of gracious living and are a true Southern tradition that I embrace! Whatever you decide to monogram, it will become unique to you because… it has your name on it.
A monogram for a married couple:
The bride's first name initial comes first on the left, the surname of the couple is more prominent and featured in the center, and the groom's first name initial is on the right. (An easy way to remember which initial comes first: “Ladies go first!”) This joint monogram is used mainly on items the couple will use together, such as silver picture frames and embroidered linens in their bedroom and bathroom.
The monogram on our bedroom linens represents Holly and Stuart. See more examples here.
When embroidering dinner napkins and placemats, as well as writing paper, the lady of the house uses her own initials, whether she is single or married, because she is the hostess/chatelaine of the house. For her monogram, she may use either her maiden name or middle name initial to the right of her surname.
Mummy used her first, maiden, and married surname in a row to embroider these linens. More examples are here.
A monogram for a single woman or single man:
Their first name is on the left, their last name is larger and in the center, and their middle name is on the right.
If a name has more than three initials (my father had five initials), they are written in a straight line instead of having the last name centered.
What if a surname has more than one initial?
Then, it is best to have your name written out in a straight line, each initial the same size, just the way you write your name. If your last name has a hyphen or two parts (McFadden), then you may choose to add the additional initials to the row of initials.
My font preferences:
The various fonts and styles available are endless, making any gift with a monogram thoughtfully unique. A “script” font is delicate and lovely for women, girls, and little babies. A “block” or “Roman” font is handsome for men and boys.
A lovely gift for a bride or someone that has everything:
A silver picture frame is a clever gift that will last forever and one that will hold precious memories. When a frame is engraved, the piece will permanently mark an important celebration. I adore picture frames so much that I dedicated an entire chapter to them in my first book, The Pretty & Proper Living Room! This chapter also gives numerous examples of how and where to properly engrave names, initials, dates, and family crests, and is applicable to almost anything.
What have you monogrammed that you cherish the most?
Xx
Holly