Monogram Etiquette (2024)

A lot of times when I am designing stationery for my wedding clients the question on their monogram usually comes up! Whose letter goes first, what letter goes first, when can I start using my married monogram, and the like. Honestly, this nitty gritty detail can be confusing, especially when you are juggling all of the other details of a wedding.

{Image found via Inspired Bride : Holy Sweet}

While doing some more research on the subject of monogramming, I came across this website I Do Monograms, such a gem of a site! It specializes in monogrammed goodies for weddings such as isle runners, umbrellas, candles, and the works! They recently did a post on their blog that sums up quite a few questions, so I’d thought I would share my find with you!

Q: Whose name/initial goes first?
A: Ladies first! The woman’s name/initial always comes first on a monogram because the man’s first name/initial should never be separated from his last name/initial.
Q: When can we start using our married monogram?
A: Follow these simple rules:

Before the wedding ceremony: It’s a big no-no to use your married monogram before you’re actually married. So that means using a monogram with your new last name or initial on save-the-dates, invitations, thank you notes, etc. is taboo. Instead, use a monogram that has just your first initials or first names.

During the wedding ceremony: This is still a gray area for some, but I say if you want to use your married monogram, go for it! The married monogram is a visual symbol of two people joining as one… so I personally feel the wedding ceremony is a perfect time to begin using your new monogram on anything from aisle runners, unity candles, programs, etc.

After the wedding ceremony: Anything goes! Use your married monogram on anything you wish- the reception is a complete green light to display your new married monogram proudly be it on a table runner, menus, the cake, the dance floor, anything your little heart desires!

Not enough monogramming advice? Click HERE to read another article on the do’s and don’ts of monogramming!