Q: What is the proper format for a monogram?
A: A monogram is an ornate design formed by the combination of letters, usually the initials of an individual or couple, used to decorate or identify an object. Many of SFERRA’s customers opt to monogram their bed, bath, and table linens, as well as throws and other gift items.
A traditional three-letter monogram for an individual has the initial of the individual's surname (or last name) set larger in the center, with the individual’s first name initial to the left of it and the middle name initial the right of it. For example, the monogram for John Paul Smith would read:
JSP
Modern convention calls for a married couple to create a three-letter monogram using the initial of their shared surname set larger in the center, with the wife’s first name initial to the left of it and the husband’s first name initial the right of it. For example, if Mary Brown married John Smith, their monogram would read:
MSJ
Some references say that for married couples, the husband's first name initial comes first. It is really a matter of personal preference, so the easiest thing to do is to leave it up to the customer.
Old school custom, as espoused by Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette, would have the linens “marked with the married initials of the mistress of the house.” This three-letter monogram has the initial of the woman's married surname set larger in the center, with her first name initial to the left of it and her maiden name initial to the right of it. For example, if Mary Brown married John Smith, their monogram would read:
MSB
There is an option to have all the initials the same size (the center initial is not larger.) These monograms do not follow the format described above for location of the surname initial. If all initials are the same size, then they are simply listed in order with the surname initial placed at the end. For example, John Paul Smith would read “JPS,” and Mary and John Smith would read “MJS.”
