Monograms, which may appear on stationery, towels, backpacks, bags, napkins, phone cases, and coasters, among other things, add a personalized touch reminiscent of traditional style. However, there are a few customary etiquette rules to follow. To enjoy giving monogrammed gifts to friends, family, and business associates, learn the practices that govern the use of monograms.

A Guide to Monogram Etiquette

Monogrammed Gifts for Individuals

A monogram is a mark that combines the initials in a name. If you’re giving a monogrammed present to a single friend or family member, you have several options. The traditional monogram for one person appears with the initial of the last name in the middle. Their first and middle initial—in a smaller font—flank it. You can also use the first, middle, and last initials—in that order—or only a combination of their first and last initials.

For people with two first or middle names, tradition dictates using only one of them for monograms to avoid a crowded look, but you can have monograms designed with four initials on stationery or other gifts if you wish. If the receiver has an apostrophe or a preposition in their last name, such as O’Brian or von Neumann, you can use the first letter only or two—either OB and vN, respectively.

If a person has a hyphenated last name, place the first and middle initials on the left and right side, respectively, with the initials from each last name in the center.

Monogrammed Gifts for Spouses & Partners

When you’re giving a monogrammed gift to couples who share a single last name, tradition dictates the letters of the couple’s first names set on either side of the initial of their shared surname.

For couples who retain their names when they marry, the initial from each last name appears in the middle of a monogram flanked by their first-name initials.

 

Discuss your monogrammed stationery ideas with the friendly team from Curio Press. Owner and designer Alexis Austin creates a variety of handmade products for nationwide distribution from her base in St. Louis, MO, including notepads, cards for special occasions, and stationery sets. Call her team today (314) 499-6866 with questions, or go online to begin shopping.