Wedding Monogram Design | The best design tips for wedding couples

A wedding monogram is unique and personal. It’s meaningful and gorgeous…. and for those that know luxury is in the details, a good wedding monogram design is that detail, that will tie your wedding together. It’s something special. Something personal that you can keep and cherish after your wedding day. It will live on with you and your love story… like the best fairy tale that never ends (or one that lives happily ever after!)

I know it sounds cliché, but your love story really is one of a kind and your wedding detail should be too! Your wedding day is something huge to celebrate, and a wedding logo is that pipeline that you seek, that point of difference that only you can have – admittedly I may be a bit biased because I love a good monogram, but they really do carry it all. Elegance, style, beauty, and a whole lot of meaning – when crafted well. All in one special mark.  

So with all this in mind, how do you go about creating a monogram design the right way? Well, ‘if you are lucky’. As my toddler would say, you will find out, and as luck would have it, you have landed right here, and I can point you in the right direction!

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What is a wedding monogram?

A wedding monogram is a symbol of two people coming together to become one. Monograms themselves have a deep history rooted in royalty, wealth, and status. Today they still represent family/identity. Monogram designs are that detail that up-levels your wedding design and appearance. Adding that effortless air of elegance, cohesiveness, and luxury.

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What is the proper way to monogram – and which initials go first?

Figuring out which initials go first can be tricky, but lucky for you, we have it all worked out. Depending on your relationship, and based on two initials you could be either of the options below:

1. If you are going modern – the bride’s name goes first

2. If you are going traditional – the groom’s name goes first

3. If you are going your own way – you can choose!

Bonus – if two initials don’t appeal (or even three). Consider one – your joint name. Wondering how many initials you actually need? Read on…

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How many initials do you need in a wedding monogram?

Your relationship and personal preference, will determine and guide this aspect. Note there is a difference between a personal monogram and a wedding monogram design. So be sure to check. In this case we are looking only at wedding monogram design. The first thing to decide is, if you want your monogram to include your surname or not.

A modern wedding monogram design usually features two initials – the first letter of each person’s first name. This is the most common as not everyone changes their name after marriage/union nowadays. Sometimes the merging of names can get crowded and complicated in a monogram design. I find 3-4 letters is text heavy for a design that is about simplicity, meaning and style, so I personally tend to stick to two letter monogram designs.

Some couples may want to do a joint monogram – this is a more traditional style. In this case their monogram would feature three initials. The first letter of each person’s first name and the first letter of their joint surname. In some cases, you may even see a 4-letter monogram design.

If you choose to go with three initials, you would use the order above where we talked about which initials go first.  With your joint surname initial in the center (and usually larger in size). These monograms are usually used on items the couple will use together such as linen, towels etc. (NB: With this monogram you cannot traditionally use it till after your wedding ceremony – because of using your married name!)

You can also keep it simple and go with one initial for your monogram – the first letter of your joint name. Sometimes keeping it simple just makes sense!

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How do you set up a wedding monogram with a hyphenated surname?

⁠If you have a joint hyphenated surname, you could have four initials in theory. This can get a little crowded with four initials in the case that both you and your partner are hyphenating your surnames. Your monogram design would feature your first initial. The first two initials of your hyphenated surname and then your partners first initial. The middle two letters representing your last name, would also be larger.  

Pro tip: Note that this monogram design would traditionally be used after your wedding ceremony. So for dinner menus, wedding favors etc. but not your wedding invites or website.

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What if I am keeping my maiden name and going with a hyphenated surname but my partner isn’t?

Start with the first initial of both your last names. In effect the initials would be the two first letters of your newly hyphenated surname. Your maiden name initial is on the left. With the first initial of your partners surname on the right (excluding the hyphen).

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Monogram Design Tips

• Borders – different shapes can have different meanings. For example, a square lends an air of balance and stability while an oval conveys a sense of harmony and protection. (Did you know that an oval shaped (diamond) engagement ring symbolizes the promise of forever?)
• Typography – each typeface has its own style and personality. For example, a serif typeface is associated with sophistication, style and timelessness. On the other hand, a sans-serif typeface is associated with a modern chic, honest and friendly vibe.
• Uppercase vs. Lowercase – has its own vibe and story. For example, uppercase conveys strength. When combined with a serif typeface you get a feeling of trust and dependability.
• Extra details – may include flourishes, a full crest, the year you met or married as in est. xxxx, and the use of an ampersand, plus mark or even the word ‘and’.

Designed well, your monogram can communicate key elements of your relationship. It’s a portrait and story of you, compacted down to a mark that’s beautiful, unique and meaningful. For an ultra-sleek and modern finish try simplifying your monogram design down to the basics with one or two letters, or replace the ampersand with a plus for a contemporary, streamlined aesthetic.

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How do you use your monogram?

Wedding monograms are that versatile element that can be added to anything. From custom wedding décor to your wedding paper goods, email signature, and literally anything you can think of! For a quick rundown of a few ideas that you can implement for your wedding. Look at our other blog post here for some inspiration.

At DesigningLove I love a beautiful and striking wedding logo. Our monogram design draws on symbolism from art history and font psychology. It’s a form of storytelling, and capturing the essence of your relationship visually. With a monogram design that has been intentionally created with your story, you can be assured that your wedding monogram will stand the test of time with you. The DesigningLove wedding monogram style is modern and minimalist, with a classic timelessness. I strive for an understated and elegant simplicity that looks striking no matter what the context, be it gold foil, a luxe letterpress finish, or simply digital print.

Are you ready to start your own wedding monogram design?

Invest in a beautiful and unique symbol that represents your love.

Let’s get together and talk about how we can tell your love story in a way no one else has…..

before we work together, lets do three quick questions..

• What is your approach and how does each new wedding project come to life? Your wedding means as much to me as it does to you. I seriously do a little dance for joy each step of the way with you! My focus is on making sure that your wedding experience is one that you love and enjoy – and that your monogram detail is one that is perfect and holds a special meaning for you. I value getting to know your story and weaving this into your design. Hence why I only work one to one – so that you get the highest level of contact and support each step of the way. This is a vital part of my design process.

• What are the current trends in the wedding world? With the pandemic in 2020/2021 impacting the size of weddings and restrictions. This has meant a rise in more micro-weddings and elopement. Couples are looking for details that are meaningful, more intimate, and personal than ever before. Wedding Monograms are the perfect fit for this, and can be used long after your wedding is over. Its one of those special details that will stand the test of time with you. Timeless, real and for those that know… true luxury is in the details.

• One piece of advice you think every couple should know? Honestly? You cannot please everyone – so don’t break yourself trying! Your wedding is about you two, and making it a day that you remember and adore, with happiness and joy.

And for fun…. 3 truths and a lie. Which is the lie? (1) My favorite season is summer (2) I’d take Pineapple Lumps over Jelly Beans any day (3) Our wedding was in summer (4) I’ve been to a live Patriots game at Gillette Stadium.

…last words

Leave the stress to the experts – because honestly you don’t need more stress if you can help it! Lean on your dress maker, your make up artist, your wedding planner and your designer to do the heavy lifting for you. Working with a wedding pro means you don’t have to scramble when things change. Look to your designer for invitation tips and advice on timings, etiquette and anything in between. They will have a host of tricks up their sleeve that will save you your sanity …. and be so worth the investment compared to saving a few dollars in the end. Because I can assure you – they’ve done it more than a few times before, and already know the best way through.

Planning your wedding is meant to be fun! A time to explore and create something magical together, that celebrates you and your best friend forever. It was for me and I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

I look forward to working together to make your wedding day the most magical memory it can be. So you can look back too and say ‘I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat’ because it was perfect.

xx Penelope