Monogram etiquette offers timeless guidance on initial placement, especially for gifts and heirlooms—but the beauty of a monogram is that it’s deeply personal. Whether you follow tradition or put your own twist on it, what matters most is that it feels like you. We’re here to help you choose with confidence and stitch something meaningful.
Traditional Monograms
TRADITIONAL TWO LETTER
(First and Last initial)
TRADITIONAL THREE LETTER
(Last Name Initial is Larger and in the Middle)
SINGLE LETTER
(Either first or last initial)
Masculine Monogram
It is traditional to embroider first, last, middle name, but this is not a hard rule.
Masculine Monogram
TRADITIONAL TWO LETTER
(First and Last initial)
TRADITIONAL THREE LETTER
(Last Name Initial is Larger and in the Middle)
SINGLE LETTER
(Either first or last initial)
Couples With Different Last Names
SIDE BY SIDE
(Last Name with Female First)
STACKED INITIALS
(Last Name with Female first, Male second)
SIDE BY SIDE WITH ICON
(Last Name with Female First)
Children's Monograms
Children's monograms follow same etiquette as adults. Although, it is more traditional for young boys to have the surname as the middle initial until they reach the teen years, where then they would take on the more masculine monogram style of first, middle, last in a straight monogram.
FAQs
How do you know what order to place my initials in?
We follow standard monogram etiquette unless you tell us otherwise or choose a style with a different format. The most common monogram order is first name initial – last name initial (larger, in the center) – middle name initial. If you prefer a different arrangement, just let us know at checkout and we’ll be happy to personalize it your way.
Can I use my maiden name instead of my middle name?
Yes! Many women choose to use their maiden name in place of a middle initial for a more personal touch. Just note your preference when placing your order, and we’ll stitch your monogram exactly the way you’d like it.
What are the order of initials for a couple's monogram?
The traditional order for a couple’s monogram is her first initial – shared last name initial (larger, in the center) – his first initial. For example, Mary & John Smith would be M S J. Of course, you’re welcome to request a different order if you prefer, just let us know when placing your order.
What kind of products can be embroidered?
We offer embroidery on a wide variety of products!
This includes:
- Apparel: Tshirts, baby clothes, hats, sweatshirts, tote bags, and more!
- Home goods: Towels, blankets, pillows, and door swag.
- Accessories: Bags, backpacks, hats, and dog bandanas.
Look for the 'M' icon on each product that can be monogrammed.
How long will it take to receive my order?
Our normal production times are 5-7 business days for monogrammed or personalized items.
We strive to beat these times, but depending on orders coming in, it can take this long.
We will update on our website if production times are greater during the Holiday Seasons. PLEASE PAY CLOSE ATTENTION FOR DEADLINES FOR HOLIDAY ORDERS!
Please feel free to email us at service@monogramme29.com for any assistance.
Do you accept rush orders?
Yes, we offer two options for rushing your order:
For Monograms:
We offer a $20 per item Rush Fee to move your embroidery order to the top of our production schedule. This ensures your item is stitched and ready faster than our standard timeline.
Please note:
- The Rush Fee applies to embroidery production only, it does not include expedited shipping.
- If you need your order shipped quickly, please also select an expedited shipping option at checkout.
- Choosing expedited shipping without the Rush Fee will speed up delivery once your order leaves us, but it will not move your item ahead in our embroidery schedule.
For Expediated Shipping:
At the checkout cart, select an expedited shipping option. Your order will leave our doors faster and the shipping carrier will deliver based on what you chose.
Quick Rush Fee FAQs
- What is it? A $20 per item fee to move your embroidery to the top of our schedule.
- Does it include faster shipping? No, please select expedited shipping at checkout if you need it delivered quickly.
- What if I choose expedited shipping only? That speeds up delivery after embroidery is finished, but it does not move your item ahead in the schedule.
- When should I add it? Anytime you need your monogrammed item completed sooner than our standard turnaround.
Do you stitch custom Wedding monograms?
Yes! While we don’t design custom wedding monograms in-house, we work closely with a trusted designer we highly recommend. We’re happy to connect you with them for the design, and once it’s created, we’ll take it from there by stitching your monogram onto beautiful linens and keepsakes for the happy occasion.
The Timeless Tradition of Monograms
The History Behind Monograms
Monograms have been around for centuries, some say as far back as 350 BC, when Greek cities would stamp the first letter of their name onto coins as a sign of pride and identity.
Later, Roman artisans and royalty adopted monograms as personal seals, branding their initials into stone, armor, and artwork. By the Middle Ages, European nobility turned monogramming into a true art form, using embroidered initials to distinguish family lineage and protect property.
Over time, what began as a symbol of authority and heritage became a beloved tradition in Southern homes, where baby blankets, bridal linens, and hand towels are still stitched with initials that tell a story.
At Monogramme No. 29, we believe every letter carries legacy, and that giving a personalized gift is a beautiful way to honor it.
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