Etiquette for Monogramming Newlywed Linen
If you're looking for the perfect gift for a newlywed couple, monogrammed linens are an ideal choice, since the linens are completely personalized and can be used for years. There is a certain etiquette that should be followed when monogramming the gift, so that the couple will treasure the linens for a lifetime.
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Traditional Monograms
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When linens are monogrammed and given as a gift to a married couple, the traditional monogram only includes the bride's married initials--or the bride's first initial, middle initial, and first initial of her married name. Some monograms only include the bride's first initial, and initial of her married last name, which is acceptable as well. The size of the monogram letters, as well as the place on the linens where the monogram is printed can help determine how many letters are used.
Couple Monograms
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It also acceptable etiquette to present the married couple with monogrammed linens that include both of their initials. For 'his and her' monograms, the suggested format is the man's first initial on the left, the woman's first initial on the right, and the couple's married name in the middle. It is also acceptable to simply monogram the first initial of the couple's married name on the linens, which automatically makes the gift unisex. For instance, if the couple's last name is Smith, an "S" can be monogrammed on the linens in fancy font.
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Font for Monograms
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The letters that are monogrammed on linens are traditionally done in cursive or calligraphy, as this font is considered the most elegant and appealing. However, many couples with a more modern fashion sense may prefer to receive monograms in alternate fonts, similar fonts like Times New Roman or Old Bookman Style. Monograms are traditionally designed in gold or silver thread, as these colors are a complement to any color linen.
Size of Monograms
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If the monogram is designed with the bride and groom's first initial, and also includes the first initial of the couple's married name, the monogram of the married name initial should be largest and in the center. If the monogram is only of the bride's name, all the initials can be the same size. For monograms that are only the initial of the newlywed couple's married name, the initial should be in a larger font so that it is noticeable.
Where to Place Monograms
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When giving monogrammed towels and washcloths, it is best to have the monograms placed at the center of one end of the linens, so that the monogram can be seen when the towels are hung for display in the bathroom. Monogrammed sheets can feature the design at the top of the sheets, and monogrammed blankets should include the couple's initials or single initial in large print in the center of the blanket.
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References
- Photo Credit handkerchief with pink monogram image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com