Today, we have a special guest blogger–my friend Claire who, along with her equally talented friend Courtland, owns the fabulous Savannah, GA store Number Four Eleven. Number Four Eleven is a must visit if you’re in Savannah–it’s the perfect destination for specialty gifts including gorgeous heirloom monograms. With the holidays coming up (isn’t a beautifully monogrammed pillow or blanket such a nice gift?!), I thought it would be fun to ask Claire if she’s seeing any interesting trends in monogramming. Here are her thoughts… (and check out the end of this post for a special offer Number Four Eleven is sharing with our readers!)
Hi everyone…so happy to be a guest blogger today! I thought I’d take on something that we at Number Four Eleven are asked about a lot…what if you’re not blessed with a perfectly symmetrical monogram?
Customarily, monograms consist of three initials or the last name initial only. For those of us who were fit with “difficult” initials, monograms just don’t look that swell. Tradition dictates that a woman’s maiden initials are always appropriate to use, even after she is married. “Modern monograms” contain the bride’s first initial, the surname of the couple, and the groom’s first initial, in that order. I personally believe that to be a monogramming faux pas. But, who’s to say what’s appropriate these days?
Using a two-letter monogram can eliminate some of these problems. Buying a gift for someone and don’t know their middle initial? Skip it… use two. In need of a monogram for a wedding present? Keep it simple. Combine the bride and groom’s first name. Stacking them on top of one another invents a custom symmetrical design. Less is more! You can obtain a custom look by doubling your last name initial and placing your first name in the center. Or, duplicate your first name and place your last name initial in the center. Avert tradition and go with what looks best.
Two-letter monograms are stunning on everything. Embroidered on your table linens or engraved on your flatware. Try a two-letter monogram on a tote bag or on bedding. Use your two-letter monogram on your stationary or upholster a piece of furniture with your magnificent design.
Don’t be afraid to use color! Lots of color! A great idea is to make one of the initials a darker color than the other, or use the same design in different colors together.
Finally, you can consider customizing more than just your initials…for you or for a gift, you can create your own one-of-a-kind monogram.
Contact us at Number Four Eleven in Savannah, Georgia. We will gladly help you create your own!
Thanks for the great ideas, Claire. I love the idea of creating a custom monogram. Would be so special at this time of year–on a tree skirt or a runner for your holiday table. And, everyone, you MUST visit Number Four Eleven’s site–you can browse their monogram offerings and colors and you’ll find SO many amazing home accessories that would make great gifts! Not only will you find amazing pillows (monogrammed and otherwise) but you’ll find gorgeous picture frames, throws, vases, mirrors, rugs, lamps…the list goes on. Whether you’re looking for a present for someone else or you’ve been waiting to find the perfect home accessory as a gift for yourself (To: Tessa, Love: Santa) now is the time to get it because as a nice holiday present to our readers, Number Four Eleven is offering 20% off everything on their site! Just enter TWOINSPIRED at checkout or mention it when you call with your order!  This special offer is valid today through Sunday, December 2. Yippee!!
