Why Do We Love Monograms?

Perhaps because they're traditional yet modern - and, let's not forget, profoundly personal. Today I want to talk a bit about the Couple Monogram. A couple monogram is a single monogram, usually consisting of three letters, that combines the initials of a husband and wife. (Sorry, but the couple monogram is technically used only by those who are married.)

Last week someone asked me a very simple question: for a couple's monogram, whose initial goes first? The answer is not as simple as the question - the rules for monograms have gone out the window and basically whatever you want to do is okay. Traditionally the husband's first initial was on the left, the shared surname initial in the center, and the wife's first initial on the right. Today, however, the norm is to put the wife's initial first. If there is not a single, shared surname you can place all four or five initials in the order that you choose. (I have actually seen a monogram that included the husband's first and last initials plus the wife's first and hyphenated maiden surname last initials! Wow, it was busy and confusing; perhaps we need a rule about this . . .) The only real rule though is that a couple should not use their couple's monogram until they are married. So, the earliest you could use it would be . . . ? If you said at the wedding reception, you are correct!

The good news for anyone looking for a great item that features a couple's monogram is that there are loads of cute items available. Here are a few of my favorites:

How happy would a couple be to receive these melamine plates from Neiman Marcus?

Or any of the great monogrammed items from Williams Sonoma, like these colorful glasses or a set of steak knives or even a branding iron to mark your steaks as they sizzle on the grill!

Or this framed monogram (that can include names, date, and occasion) from American Stationery? They also have lovely monogrammed coasters and tumblers. A word of warning about the tumblers, though. Once you see them, you're sure to want some for your next party or picnic!

Now you're ready to purchase the perfect shower, wedding, housewarming, or anniversary gift. Or maybe something for you and the person who's the other half of your couple's monogram!