Crafting Your Own Monogram
So I did a little research on the history of monograms. To me, this type of design has always seemed a little “stiff” for invitations, but I realized that there are no rules to how you create your monogram. It is, in essence, your own personalized logo. I’m warming up to the idea…
Historically, monograms were used as royal signatures. In the Middle Ages (the dates are fuzzy) monograms were affiliative; coins were carved with a royal family’s monogram, and if you carried this coin, you were showing allegiance to that family. The lower class took this form of design as artisans began using the monogram to sign their artwork.
Monograms really made a comeback during the Victorian era. Females, especially from high society, used monograms to “mark” the marriage gifts they were given, like linens, towels, glassware, etc. These marriage monograms consisted of the bride’s first initial on the left, a larger initial of the joint last name in the middle, and the initial of the groom’s first name on the right. Now there are no rules about constructing a monogram-the bride doesn’t even have to take the groom’s last name in order for the couple to have a monogram.
And this is why I’m starting to like the use of a monogram in all things wedding, including your invitations. Similar to a family crest/shield in which pictures and words are supposed to represent what your family stands for (although, on the crest of my maiden name, “Chambers”, is a line-up of squirrels), a monogram symbolizes the new union that you and your partner are creating. And although a monogram, like the institution of marriage, is something that has been done by people before you, it has never been done by you and your partner. This marriage/monogram is your invention, and your interpretation of the traditions established in the past. I think that’s really cool.
In previous blogs I’ve written about creating a “motif” around which the design work of your wedding can center. I think it makes great sense to have the focus of the event be the “union” of your initials/identities. You can play around with the lettering so that an image that is recognizable emerges from the monogram. There are great examples of these monogram images on “Design Sponge”. I’m a big fan of this site, which happens to be listed as one of our blogrolls, and I encourage you to check it out when you get the chance!
Megan
One Response to “Crafting Your Own Monogram”
Hello,
Thank you! I would now go on this blog every day!
Thanks
Elcorin
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