Monogramming 101

Monogramming is a timeless way to add a personalized touch to your belongings, celebrating your identity, special moments, and affiliations. Whether you’re creating a traditional monogram for yourself, a couple’s monogram after getting married, or a sorority monogram to showcase your Greek pride, this guide will walk you through the process.

Traditional Monograms

A traditional monogram typically consists of three letters: the first name initial, the last name initial (larger and in the center), and the middle name initial. Here’s how to create a traditional monogram:

Identify Your Initials: For Mary Ann Smith, her traditional monogram would be MSA:
First Name Initial: M
Last Name Initial: S
Middle Name Initial: A
Choose the Right Font and Style: Traditional monograms often use script fonts. You can choose a more modern sans-serif font for a contemporary look.
Placement and Sizing: The last name initial should be the largest and in the center. The first and middle name initials should be smaller and placed on either side.

Couple’s Monograms

Couple’s monograms are a beautiful way to celebrate your union. Here’s how to monogram as a couple:

Same Last Name:
Order: Husband’s first initial, shared last name initial (larger in the center), wife’s first initial.
Example: For Jane Doe and John Smith, the monogram would be JSJ.

Different Last Names:
Order: Both first initials or both last initials with an ampersand.
Example: For Jane Doe and John Smith, the monogram could be D&S for their last names or J&J for their first names.

Hyphenated Last Name:
Order: One spouse’s first initial, shared last name initial (larger in the center), other spouse’s first initial.
Example: For Jane Doe-Smith and John Doe-Smith, the monogram would be DS.

Many couples also create a custom monogram for their wedding day, incorporating elements like the wedding date or special symbols. This monogram can be used on everything from invitations to wedding favors, creating a cohesive theme for your big day.

Sorority Monograms

Sorority monograms are a great way to wear your letters. Here’s how to create a sorority monogram:

Use the Greek letters of your sorority. For example, Alpha Chi Omega would be ΑΧΩ. Refer to our guide to see which letters you need to enter to produce the correct Greek letters for your sorority. In this case, it would be ACW.