Which initials go where in a monogram

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For an individual, the first name initial is followed by the last and middle. The last name initial center is larger than those on the side. Start with the double name initials stacked. Then the married name initial in the center, followed by the maiden name initial. The double name initials when stacked should be the same size as the maiden name initial. The married last name initial center will be the largest. If you have multiple middle names, start your monogram with your first name initial.

Follow this with your middle name initials, and end with your last name initial. All of the initials should appear at the same size. Begin with her first name initial, followed by the married last name initial, and end with his first name initial. The last name initial center is larger than the first name initials. If the individuals both keep their last names, start with her first and last initial followed by his.

The two last name initials center will be larger than the two first name initials. For an individual with a hyphenated last name, begin with the first name initial, followed by the two last name initials, and end with the middle name initial.

The two last name initials center will be larger. Learn the Right Way to Monogram. A four-letter monogram may be a bit too letter-rich for some.

A simplified approach would showcase just the hyphenated last name in a two letter monogram. So the first initial of each surname would be displayed with a hyphen in between. Put together your monogram using the first initial of both of your last names, without any ampersand, plus sign, or unifying design element. For example, John Doe and Jane Smith would become SD, with the wife's initial traditionally taking first place in the order.

This would look similar to the two-letter hyphenated last name monogram but without the hyphen, or you can stack each of your personal initials for a more contemporary aesthetic. To really simplify your monogram, see how it looks with just single initials. Use your first initial, followed by an ampersand, with your partner's first initial at the end. For a more modern visual, you can use a plus sign or other design element in lieu of the ampersand. Or, choose to just do a single initial monogram, using the first initial of your shared last name.

With hand-lettering, personal symbols, meaningful color schemes, and illustrations, customized monograms up the ante from mere initial order to full-fledged coats of arms and emblematic family crests that reflect the very essence of your shared or individual identity. Monograms are a timeless way to make wedding details feel customized. In fact, they have been utilized for centuries.

And the coat of arms emerged around the 12th century, as a form of identification for knights," says Menocal. We also want to empower people to design their own monograms and family emblems—the more scrappy and rudimentary, the better.

Just be sure to exercise some restraint and inject small monogrammed accents rather than go all out with monogrammed everything. Porcelain and fine china are classic registry items that will accompany you and your spouse on your journey through life together. What better way to enjoy all of your cherished family meals together or celebrate dinner parties than with personalized items? Plates, mugs, even flatware or glassware, offer great opportunities to utilize a joint last name or single initial monogram.

But again, it's better to choose one item to emblazon with your initials rather than the entire tablescape. Stationery is quite possibly the most traditional canvas for monogram use. It goes without saying that your communication with others should carry your personal identification, whether that be a simple monogram or full-fledged coat of arms. In this case, a personal monogram is most appropriate unless the implements will be used for joint correspondence.

Customized letterheads or wax seals will add the perfect finishing touch to any missive. Much like porcelain and fine china, linens are an ideal way to incorporate your crest into your home.

Etiquette calls for a single last name initial on all household items like linens or guest towels but a personal monogram for individualized items like handkerchiefs, towels, or pillowcases.

If you can't wait to show off your new monogram, your wedding day itself is ripe with opportunities to display that new crest. Cake toppers and cocktail napkins are classics, but also consider emblazoning centerpieces, decorative chair backs, photo backdrops, and all signage. We've even seen a stunning wedding cake with a custom monogram worked into the frosting.

When it comes to favors, we recommend using some restraint. In this case, it's best to only monogram the packaging as not everyone will want a keepsake with someone else's initials.