I recently returned from my cousin’s wedding on Cape Cod loaded down with a number of gifts all of which were emblazoned with my initials. Bunny had a wonderful pre wedding spa-day for all the girls and what fun we had. Each of us received a Robe, Slippers and a matching Cosmetic Bag embroidered with a seashell and our monogram. The bride pranced around in a robe that read “The Future Mrs. Moore”…too cute. I can’t tell you how many compliments she got on her choice of gifts…so much better than some candle or wine glass.
The Happy Couple
Just what is it that makes us so fascinated with something that is fashioned just for us? The futurist Faith Popcorn, who predicts and defines trends, refers to this as “Egonomics ”. Ms Popcorn (gotta love that name) says “to offset a depersonalized society consumers crave recognition of their individuality”. Maybe a little intellectual, but hey who doesn’t want to be thought of as an individual? Just which one of us doesn’t have a little bit of an ego?
Ugh, Now I'm hungry!
Monograms are the earliest form of personal identification and go all the way back to Roman and Greek civilization. They were used as a way to identify a person or a family and often appeared on coins. Later in the Middle Ages artists, sculptors and furniture makers used them as a way to sign their work. Monarchs used them (and still do) as a form of royal signature. The Victorians used them to show their status in society. These monograms were very formal and were used on such things as bridal clothes, linens, stationery and luggage. There were many rules regarding how initials would appear in any monogram, the favored one being the three-lettered version. In this version the last name would appear in the middle with the first name to the left and the middle name to the right. (Yikes! What an ordeal)
From the 1900's!
Fast forward to the 21st century and find that we are still addicted to this outward expression of who we are. Just as they did back in the day, monograms conjure up a certain level of sophistication. However we have thrown the rules out the window. Today high tech embroidery machines make it possible to quickly and affordably stitch intricate monograms and designs. . We are no longer limited to a single block letter or the traditional three initials. Themes and modern fonts are the order of the day. We can add monkeys and fire trucks, rings or circus clowns. This outward expression of who we are, where went to school or what we are doing can be had on any item from bags to shoes.
How did they get these on there?!
Who doesn’t like that? Personalized gifts are memorable and show that special touch, the idea that you took a little extra care. Next time you need a gift use a little imagination and consider some personalization. I guarantee that you will be rewarded with joy and thanks.
Me? I am on my way to my very own logo. I just got some slippers that say “Bizzie’s Left” and “Bizzie’s Right”.
Have Fun!
Have Fun!
