The Monogram Merchant : The Best Selection of Personalized Gifts

Red Carpet Ready

2012-02-24T06:58:00.000-08:00

Our monogrammed Swarovski crystal clutches add letter perfect style to any special occasion -- even the Oscars! We know any actress who carried one of these fabulous bags would be a winner. What a wonderful gift for a big occasion like a wedding, launch party or a special birthday. $875

Margarita Madness

2012-02-22T08:36:00.000-08:00

Cheers - it's National Margarita Day! We love creative holidays and get especially enthusiastic over ones that require blenders and big decisions like frozen or on-the- rocks! We were curious about the history of the margarita and the signature glass and found a story we had to share that involves a personalized gift!

According to TheNibble.com, a 1940s Dallas socialite named Margaret 'Margarita' Sames mixed up a batch of a new cocktail during a Christmas holiday in Acapulco. "After all, a person can only drink so many beers or so many Bloody Marys, or screwdrivers or whatever," Margaret Sames told the San Antonio News Express in 1994. "I wanted to make up a new drink."

Over the years, Margarita and her husband, Bill, served the drink to their guests, referring to it as “The Drink” or “Margarita's Drink.” After Bill gave Margarita champagne glasses etched with her name, the drink became officially known as the Margarita. Margarita Sames' recipe was spread by friends and guests, including hotelier Nick Hilton, Hotel Bel-Air owner Joseph Drown, movie stars Lana Turner and John Wayne.

Our Monogrammed Margarita set makes a wonderful gift!

We are sharing the Monogram Merchant's very own Cynthia Brumback's Citrus Margarita recipe with you here that she created for 'A Sunsational Encore' -- a Junior League of Greater Orlando cookbook.

Cynthia's Citrus Margarita:

4.5 ounces tequila

2 ounces Triple Sec

2 ounces Grand Marnier

4 ounces orange juice concentrate

2 ounces limeade concentrate

Juice of 1 lime

Ice

Lime juice and salt for rimming margarita glasses

1) Fill a blender with ice cubes

2) Add the tequila, liquers, orange juice concentrate, limeade concenrate and lime juice

3) Process until blended to preferred consistency

4) Pour into chilled glasses (rimmed with salt if desired)

5) Garnish with a slice of lime

YIELD: 4 servings

CHEERS!

Style your door for spring!

2012-02-17T12:46:00.000-08:00

New at the Monogram Merchant -- Monogram Door knockers. Available in brass or nickel plated silver finish in 16 of the most popular letters. What a great gift for weddings or housewarmings! An easy way to add personal style to your front door or a child's bedroom door. $39.95

Helping Honduras Kids 20% Off Sale

2011-10-10T10:16:00.000-07:00

Now through October 17th, we are offering a 20% discount on select merchandise as part of our support of Helping Honduras Kids. We are sponsoring 10 Honduran children this Christmas with one of our favorite business partners, Heartstrings Enterprises. As a thank you, Heartstrings is giving us a 20% discount to share with you on some of our best-selling gifts. If you've had your eye on something special, now is your chance to get it 20% off or get started early on your holiday shopping! Hundreds of products are included in this sale!

Here is a list of links to sale items:

Monogrammed Baseball Caps & Hats

Monogrammed Wraps & Scarves

Monogrammed Slippers

Monogrammed Folding Umbrellas

Monogrammed Acrylic Gifts

Monogrammed Baby Bibs & Burp Cloths

Monogrammed Hooded Towels

Sterling Silver Baby Gifts

Monogrammed Coolers & Lunch Bags

Car Monograms & License Plates

Monogrammed Towels and Bath Wraps

Monogrammed Picture Frames

Monogrammed House and Garden Flags

Monogrammed Jewelry

Name and Monogram Decals

Gift of the Day: Reading List of Favorite Books from our Facebook Friends

2011-08-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

With our give away of the autographed copy of The Help,
we got a diverse and intriguing list of favorite books from our FB friends and we thought we'd share it with you!

KBB recommends A Place of Yes: 10 Rules for Getting Everything You Want Out of Life

HP recommends Drinking, a Love Story

LLM loves Pride And Prejudice

JD can't live without Gone with the Wind, 75th Anniversary Edition

JFC suggests Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life's Greatest Lesson

FW likes Here, Home, Hope

LMT named her dog after someone in this book The Great Gatsby

KMW shared her favorite -- a true story The Hiding Place (Hendrickson Classic Biographies)

LC shared a family favorite for several generations The Wind in the Willows (Puffin Classics)

KSR & MCR love the timeless story A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (P.S.)

MBH loves all things Savannah including Savannah Blues

SB recommends He's Just Not That Into You: The No-Excuses Truth to Understanding Guys

AU likes this great story of friendship Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

JV & SBM loved one of our favorites Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia

PRL says this is a great book The Rapture of Canaan

LJG likes Firefly Lane

MC a Catholic girl now Jewish by marriage says you can't miss Jewish as a Second Language: How to Worry, How to Interrupt, How to Say the Opposite of What You Mean

MCR says this is the most hilarious book ever written The Joyous Season

DHB says this is a captivating read Beach Music: A Novel

CS likes this eloquent testament to friendship Snow Flower and the Secret Fan: A Novel (Random House Movie Tie-In Books)

BGK recommends this truthful perspective Belly Laughs: The Naked Truth about Pregnancy and Childbirth

HHL's favorite Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy's Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven and Back

NC loves the reality of A Painted House

GIVE AWAY - Autographed copy of The Help

2011-08-22T06:55:00.000-07:00

This summer everyone is talking about The Help -- both the book and the movie. We read the book when it first came out in 2009 and saw the movie on opening day. There is so much to say about this story! Over the weekend, we had the pleasure of talking with Kathryn Stockett. She is lovely and a very interesting person! We were thrilled to ask her to autograph a copy of The Help to GIVE AWAY to one of the Monogram Merchant's fabulous friends. She was delighted to hear about the Monogram Merchant and loved our idea of giving away an autographed copy of The Help!

Here is what you need to know to play:

One lucky MM peep will be selected at the end of the day on Monday, August 29th to win the autographed copy of The Help!

Here is what you can do to play:

Follow our blog
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter (TheMonogramMe)
Visit our Facebook page and tell us your favorite book (other than The Help) and why you love it
Tweet your favorite book and why (and include @TheMonogramMe)

We asked KS if she ever gets tired of people telling her how much they loved her book and she said 'Never! It's the kindest thing someone could say to me!'

11th Anniversary Sale 20% off Site Wide through August 22nd

2011-08-15T04:00:00.000-07:00

The Monogram Merchant has been Making it Personal Since 2000. We are delighted to celebrate 11 years in business this month. Thank you to all of our wonderful customers, artisans, family and friends for your generous support. We are grateful to all of you.

Use code HBMM and enjoy a 20% discount on any items you'd like through August 22nd. If you need our help with your order, please email us at monogrammerchant@aol.com or call us at 407-406-2660.

Gift of the Day: Behind the Glass Monogram Pendants

2011-08-05T09:44:00.000-07:00

We love our new romantic Behind the Glass pendants! These pieces are completely custom -- you select pendant shape, metal finish, pattern and monogram style. A great option for one-of-a-kind gift giving. Another reason to feel good about our Behind the Glass monogrammed pendants -- 25% of the profits from this line go to Helping Honduras Kids. Pendants are $22-$25 and matching chains are $10 and up. Use code DAY to get 10% off this gift anytime.

Gift of the Day: Southern Plate by Christy Jordan

2011-07-29T07:06:00.000-07:00

There is a first time for everything, and today marks our first Gift of the Day which is something you can't buy on TheMonogramMerchant.com! On Monday, my nephews and I made home-made doughnuts with Christy Jordan's recipe from her blog SouthernPlate.com. They were delicious, easy to make and we were thrilled with the results. Naturally, basking in the glow of the doughnut success, I ordered Christy's cookbook, Southern Plate: Classic Comfort Food That Makers Everyone Feel Like Family.
Christy's cookbook is one of the most personal I have ever seen. She shares her family history and recipes along with intimate stories of the people and occasions who prepared and shared these Southern classics. Christy does such a good job of making it personal that I feel as though I was at one of her Alabama family reunions! This cookbook is full of recipes you'll want to add to your own collection and make a part of your family history.

http://www.amazon.com/Southern-Plate-Classic-Comfort-Everyone/dp/0061991015/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311947407&sr=8-1

Stephen Bonanno Monogram Sandals: Our Gift of the Day

2011-06-21T18:31:00.000-07:00

Color Your Summer with Stephen Bonanno Monogram Sandals!

We have been in love with these sandals since 2002 and are so excited to add them to our site! What fun it is for a shoe diva to be the design director of her custom made sandals! Shown here in our colorful circle is the Emma Classic Monogram Sandal. You choose the leather colors, the monogram style and even the height of the heel. Emma is also available for little girls and in a sassy 3 inch wedge for ladies. Tatiana is a newer style of monogram sandal and is just as fabulous! If you need help deciding on the perfect color combination for you, visit our gallery of inspiration or use our interactive sandal tool to get some great ideas.

Since Stephen Bonanno Monogram Sandals are made just for you by hand, it takes approximately 4-6 weeks for them to be created. Rush service is available for $25 and that gets you your sandals in about 3 weeks.

To celebrate this fantastic addition to our site we are going to give you FREE RUSH SERVICE on all orders placed by June 30th. All orders through June 30th will be automatically upgraded with our compliments!

Gift of the Day: Palm Beach Ice Buckets

2011-06-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

Welcome Summer! We're ready for some outdoor entertaining with our new Monogrammed Palm Beach Ice Buckets. Just $42.95 including the monogram. 3 quart double-walled ice bucket comes with clear acrylic lid and matching tongs. White ice bucket has silver-tone handle; colors have gold-tone. Available in Royal Blue, Turquoise, White, Lime Green and Orange with your choice of monogram style and color. Perfect gifts for hostesses, weddings and summer birthdays! Use code 'DAY' to get 10% off these ice buckets anytime.

Monogrammed Acrylic Beverage Server - Gift of the Day

2011-04-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

We LOVE our Monogrammed Acrylic Beverage Server. $45 with monogram. This elegant beverage server holds the perfect amount -- 3 gallons -- enough for a group but not the entire town! The base has a well for ice which helps keep your drink of choice cool without getting watered down.

Our Facebook peeps shared fantastic ideas for drinks and occasions perfect for the beverage server including Derby Day, pool parties, weddings, graduation, rush parties.

Favorite Drinks:

Water with floating lemons

Water with cucumbers or cucumbers + mint

Lemonade

Strawberry lemonade floating lemon slices and strawberries

Cherry Limeade with fresh cherries and sliced limes

Sweet Tea

Fruit Tea with frozen peaches

Arnold Palmers

Southern Bourbon Tea

Kristen's Potion 1/2 lemonade, 1/2 Bigelow Plantation Mint Iced Tea, thinly sliced lemons and limes.

Mimosas

Mint Juleps

Margaritas (Watermelon or Mango)

Mojitos

Sangria

Champagne Wedding Punch

Orange Creamcicles (Vanilla Vodka & Orange Crush)

Black Eyed Susans (Vodka, Rum, Orange Juice, Triple Sec & Lime)

Sweet Tea Vodka & Lemonade

Kentucky Lemonade (with Bourbon)

Brew Berry Delight (3/4 cup frozen raspberries, 3 1/2 12-oz. bottles beer, chilled, 1 12-oz. container frozen raspberry lemonade concentrate, thawed

1/2 cup vodka Garnish: lemon and lime slices)

Gift of the Day: Ready for Spring! Fabulous Flower Tote

2011-03-08T08:19:00.000-08:00

Sophisticated. Fun. Sustainable.

We are in LOVE with our new woven raffia flower tote.

Artists in New York have partnered with artisans in Madagascar to create these fantastic, feminine flower totes. Perfect for everyday or special events, our flower tote will add a chic note to your spring and summer wardrobe. Available in 9 luscious colors, sure to fit into your palette. Woven raffia and hand carved wood handles are made from sustainable resources. Feel good while you look good!

Gift of the Day: Tervis Tumblers a Whole New Way

2011-01-17T09:12:00.000-08:00

Tervis Tumblers with Butter Sauce for Sarasota Shrimp

Tervis Tumblers promise to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold, and I'm so in love with the fact the tumblers keep the ice fresh in my diet coke that I rarely think to use them for anything hot.

Last night I was hosting a small birthday dinner and wanted to keep it simple with placemats, but I was serving Sarasota Shrimp (recipe below) which includes a delicious butter dipping sauce. My butter warmers are great, but without fail you end up with a table full of butter drips which is a yucky mess to clean up.

Divine inspiration or to quote Plato 'necessity, who is the mother of invention' directed me to give my 12 oz Tervis Tumblers a try as butter sauce cups. They were perfect! The butter sauce stayed perfectly warm while we were at the table and the 12 oz Tervis Tumblers were great for dunking the shrimp.

Other ideas for using the 'Cocktail Size' Tervis Tumblers to keep sauces warm would be maple syrup for pancakes or french toast sticks, chocolate sauce, and maybe even an au jus or gravy. Of course, the tumblers would work well to keep dips and sauces cold too! Great for vegetable dip (our favorite is Spinach & Herb Dip Mix from Tastefully Simple, cocktail sauce, pimento cheese or salsa.

Here is the recipe for Sarasota Shrimp (adapted from Sunsational, Junior League of Greater Orlando)

For the boil:

1 lb of shrimp per person
1 box Zatarain's crawfish, shrimp and crab boil
1 large sweet onion sliced
2 lemons cut into quarters
4 stalks of celery with leaves (I like using the center of the bunch)

Mix the boil, onion, lemons and celery into about 1/2 gallon water
Allow to sit for 30 minutes or so
Simmer for at least 30 minutes before adding the shrimp; you can simmer longer if you wish
Once the boil is bubbling, add shrimp and boil for 3-5 minutes til done

For the butter sauce (this makes way more than you need for 4-5 lbs of shrimp):

3 sticks butter
1 tbs Worcestershire sauce
2 tbs Soy Sauce
1 tbs Tarragon vinegar
3-4 tbs fresh lemon juice
1 tbs salt
8 dashes of Tabasco sauce

Mix all of the above and stir regularly over low heat. Sauce ends up a light brown/golden yellow color. Pour into your 12 oz Tervis Tumblers and serve!

Christmas 2010 Favorites

2011-01-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

Glittery Starfish ornament -- souvenir from the Bahamas

Happy New Year!

Best Wishes to you for a happy, healthy & prosperous 2011!

Since we are so sad the holiday season is over, we made a scrapbook of some our favorites from Christmas 2010. Hope you enjoy seeing how we celebrate & decorate.

We love needlepoint and especially at Christmas. This angel tree topper was made by my Aunt Cath who taught me how to needlepoint....I made the star angel ornament and love how cute they are together. This was the first year we put them side by side and it made me think of her everytime I looked at the tree. Our dogs get VIP treatment with their personalized stockings. Santa holds them up with the help of some flat stocking hangers we found at Walmart. They were perfect to tuck under our needlepoint Santa.

Pink Poinsettia from Palmers

Antique mercury glass reindeer posed on a breakfront while white pine cone ornaments were nestled in a silver dish. The glow of mercury glass is perfect all year but especially during the holidays. Our reindeer are basking in the warm light from the tree lights.

Poinsettia's are a holiday must...this year we went all pink and put three in porcelain and gold trim cache pots we found at the Georgetown Flea Market.

Thanks for the cards! We keep them up all year....

My sister made this fabric covered memo board for me and I love using it for photo holiday cards. So fun for friends and family to see their cards displayed when they come over.

We spray painted these walnuts silver and gold...every year we find a new way to use them and we always get lots of compliments!

Santa brought me a Kindle...fortunately he also brought a monogrammed case for it! You can check out the cases on the Monogram Merchant.com

We love our small letter box for holiday invitations and cards! We gave one away like this on Facebook in our 12 holiday GIVE AWAYS! If you want to see all the styles and patterns, go to the For the Home section on the Monogram Merchant.com

Hate seeing someone dig into a bowl with a germy hand? We LOVE this Amuse-Bouche spoon for candy, nuts or sauce and it easily takes care of the problem. You can hang it from the edge or the side making it crystal clear to guests they should use it! Just $3.95 from Sur la Table

Monogrammed Recipe Cards: Perfect for Treasured Family Recipes

2010-11-25T19:13:00.000-08:00

We love love love our 38 styles of personalized recipe cards from Boatman Geller!! After sharing recipes over Thanksgiving, we can't resist these! Add personal style to your signature dish with these chic 4" x 6" double-sided recipe cards. We think they make great gifts for birthdays, the holidays, hostesses, and bridal showers. Free shipping on these through 12/5/10. See the entire selection by clicking here.

Red Letter Holiday - Festival of Trees 2010

2010-11-15T17:21:00.000-08:00

We are so thrilled to be participating for the 6th year in the Orlando Museum of Art's Festival of Trees. The festival theme is 'Red Hot for the Holidays' and we have to agree all that red is making us very excited for the holiday season. Our table 'Red Letter Holiday' is a high/low combination of paper & linen napkins, crystal glasses and melamine plates. Personalized gift tags adorn homemade pickles and marmalade, Third Wife wine and beautifully wrapped packages. Over 20 monogrammed gifts are on display in 'Red Letter Holiday' and one lucky winner will receive a $500 gift certificate when his or her raffle ticket is drawn on Sunday, November 21st. You can see all our specially chosen gifts by clicking here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Acrylic Bowls!

2010-09-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

We are inspired by yesterday's Nate Berkus show where he shared special monogrammed gifts under $25. Who says thoughtfulness has to be expensive? We love this monogrammed square acrylic bowl! Its $18 and measures about 5" square. Perfect for salads or snacks.

We love the idea of serving or giving your signature recipe in one of these. What a creative hostess gift! Add nuts, snacks or dip mix and you've got a chic and practical gift ready to go!

Stock up for holiday hostess gifts today! Click here to use promo code 'DAY' to get 10% off your bowls

Gift of the Day: Personalized Cases for iPhones & iTouch

2010-09-06T20:47:00.000-07:00

Add some style to your dial! We could hardly wait to post our much-anticipated new gift category -- iPhone & iTouch cases with your initial, name or monogram! We have 38 styles, including a few collegiate color combinations (Florida Gators, Alabama & Auburn). These impact resistant hard plastic cases are custom made for you in the USA. Allow 2-3 weeks for the magic to happen.

One bit of advice....if you would like to see one of these arrive as a gift for yourself this holiday season, be sure to let your little shoppers know they can get it now and receive a 10% discount with the code 'DAY'....click here to see the entire collection

Gift of the Day: Transitioning to Fall with our Monogrammed Wood Pendant

2010-09-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

With Labor Day right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about Fall. It's still so warm here that the easiest way to move into the new season is with accessories. We love this monogrammed wood pendant. You can choose from several styles of necklaces ... the beaded one shown here is made of jasper or a suede cord makes a simply elegant statement. Click here to see this easy fun fall must-have for just $21. Use code 'DAY' to get 10% off this versatile piece!

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Mouse Pads

2010-08-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

Why should kids have all the fun with back-to-school supplies? Add a personal touch to your desk at work or at home with a new mouse pad. You choose from loads of patterns, colors and fonts and your custom creation will be on its way to you in 2 weeks. These mousepads make great gifts for bosses and co-workers, friends, graduations and students. At $28.95, monogrammed mouse pads are an attractive and affordable gift! Use promo code 'DAY' to get a 10% discount on this item. See all the options by clicking here

Gift of the Day: New Darling Folded Notes Starting at $19.50

2010-08-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to us! We are celebrating 10 years in business. Fun things are planned throughout the year so stay tuned for special deals, contests, and lots of new products.

What do you have after a big celebration? Thank you notes! We love our new folded notes...14 new styles to choose from and the price can't be beat! 10 personalized notes for $19.50 or 25 fo $39.50.

Need help writing notes or explaining why they are important? Here are some of our favorite books which might help!

Crane's Blue Book of Stationery: The Styles and Etiquette of Letters, Notes, and Invitations

Miss Manners' Guide to Excruciatingly Correct Behavior, Freshly Updated

Manners by Kate Spade

Gift of the Day: Filigree Monogram Pendant

2010-07-22T11:30:00.000-07:00

We love these new sterling silver filigree monogram pendants. They come in two styles: rimmed (shown here) and floating. Several sizes to choose from too so you can find what that suits you perfectly.

These are a new take on a classic, and we know every girl will want one. We are offering them at a special introductory price through July 28th. You can click here to see the style shown right or search our site for 'filigree' to see all styles.

Find us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

Gift of the Day: Fabulous Summer Hostess Gift Ideas

2010-07-07T13:25:00.000-07:00

Friends with vacation homes are always popular this time of year. If you're lucky enough to enjoy beach or mountain hospitality, thank your host or hostess with something personal.

Fabulous Ideas:

Monogrammed Tervis Tumblers everyone loves them for a reason!
Southern Living Featured Cutting Boards look great in the kitchen or at the bar.
Jan Sevadjian Custom Albums & Guest Books are beautiful lasting gifts than can be enjoyed and displayed for many seasons to come...
Personalized Lucite Trays by Preppy Plates are oh so fun & functional.
Monogrammed Plates are eco-chic and perfect for poolside and picnics.
Custom Stamps with addresses or for books....
Monogrammed Party Buckets hold tons of drinks or towels. Makes entertaining a big group stylishly easy!

Happy Summer!

National Pink Day: June 23rd

2010-06-21T20:19:00.001-07:00

We love pink so we were thrilled to learn that June 23rd is National Pink Day....a holiday new to the MM. The only requirement for celebrating National Pink Day is wearing or displaying something pink! How easy! Be creative with your pink expressions -- think from head to toe because the opportunities are endless. A pink headband, pink sunglasses or slip into some fun pink sandals (Jack Rogers, anyone?) Pink cocktails, cookies or cupcakes would be a tasty way to enjoy the day.

The color pink has many different meanings across the globe. In the US, we associate pink with Breast Cancer Awareness. In Japan, the cherry blossoms every spring are said to represent young Japanese samuri who died in battle ... a very masculine meaning for the color. Marrakesh is known as the 'Rose City' because it is painted a pale salmon color. Regardless of where you are in the world, the color pink carries great meaning.

Pink is the color of happiness and romance. The color pink encourages confidence and creates calm, serene environments. Pink expresses tenderness and affection. Wearing the color pink can make you seem approachable and caring to others.

Sensationalcolor.com has lots of interesting info on the color pink. We'll end with some fun sayings that include 'pink' ....

Pink elephant....hallucinations from too many cocktails!

Pink collar ....jobs that can only be filled by women!

Tickled pink...to be happy!

And we are TICKLED PINK to offer you 20% off your order through June 23rd. We have almost 500 products with 'pink' in the title so you are sure to find something pink-tacular!

Use promo code 'PINK' and click here to start shopping!

Gift of the Day: Classic Crystal DOF Glasses

2010-06-09T13:31:00.001-07:00

You can't go wrong with a classic! Traditional yet perfect for today. You can make them modern with the right monogram style.

We love these glasses for wedding gifts. Perfect for the happy couple or as a groomsman gift (highly recommended by our professional groomsman with 18+ weddings and counting). Nice gift for Dad for Father's Day to spiff up his bar. Housewarmings and hostesses too. And at $39.95 for a set of 4, these glasses are an affordable, useful and warmly received gift.

You can order them from us by clicking here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Vases in 2 new sizes

2010-06-02T14:03:00.001-07:00

The square monogrammed vase has been a big hit with our customers since we introduced it last fall. Now available in two new sizes (7.5 inches and 9 inches)! We think these vases make a great gift for bridesmaids (pop their bouquets in at the wedding reception), hostesses and housewarmings, wedding gifts, holidays and birthday gifts for girlfriends. The square style makes this vase perfect for all decor from contemporary to traditional. You can fill them with a gorgeous bouquet or lucky bamboo and pebbles. There is no limit to the creative possibilities for this affordable and thoughtful gift. Check them out here

Gift of the Day: Adorable Amy Earrings

2010-05-11T18:22:00.000-07:00

We adore our new monogrammed jewelry line. These earrings are the 'Amy' style $65...aqua blue is perfect for late spring and summer and the pearl drop adds a touch of classic elegance. Throw them on with a polo shirt or a funky tunic -- endless chic opportunities!

Wouldn't these make a fun bridesmaids gift? With 9 different styles of earrings, you can find one to suit everyone. Graduates would feel special with these earrings -- a letter perfect gift!

Allow 2 weeks for your beautiful pieces to be made just for you! If you have a rush or special deadline, let us know and we will see if the artist can work her magic and make it happen.

See our collection here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Becky Bag

2010-05-04T21:58:00.001-07:00

Our hot weather has finally arrived and it seems here to stay. In an effort to look pulled together but be ready for a trip to the beach or the pool, we are showing off our monogrammed straw purses....this new style known as the 'Becky' is a squared off version of the original 'half-moon'...slightly more casual but still just as fun. With two sizes to choose from, you can decide how many everyday essentials to carry along with a water bottle, maybe a magazine, shades and sunscreen. If you have one of these bags on your arm, you are ready for all the good things summer has to offer. Allow 3 weeks or so for your bag to be created just for you. Starting at $140. Remember to use code 'DAY' to get 10% off your bag. You can see all the straw bag styles by clicking here.

Gift of the Day: Hot House Monogrammed Jewelry

2010-04-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Cole Ring $45

Our online exclusive! Hot House Monogrammed Jewelry is hand-crafted by graphic artist and jewelry maker Merryman Cassels Cleveland in North Carolina. Each piece is named for someone near and dear to her, a member of her inner circle. Her line includes rings, earrings, and necklaces. Beautiful gifts for bridesmaids, graduation, and birthdays. You can see the full line by clicking here

Order by Sunday, May 2nd for Mother's Day Delivery! Use promo code 'DAY' for 10% off!

Gift of the Day: Jan Sevadjian Monogrammed Silk Wedding Memory Books

2010-04-19T13:48:00.000-07:00

These elegant albums and memory books are wonderful gifts for weddings and new babies! Jan Sevadjian uses the finest fabrics, ribbons and accents to create heirloom products to celebrate your special occasions.

Our customers have enjoyed buying Jan's albums, frames and guest books since 2001. We are thrilled Southern Living's Jennifer Berno is introducing these albums to her readers. You can see our collection of silk albums by clicking here

Use Promotion Code 'SL' to receive 10% your order.

Featured in April 2010 Southern Living: Order by April 20th for Mother's Day!

2010-04-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

Our fantastic glass monogrammed cutting boards we've been sharing with you are featured in the April 2010 Southern Living!

These cutting boards make great gifts -- especially for Mother's Day and the upcoming wedding season. Available in two sizes, 5 colors and lots of cute patterns!

Check them out in our Entertaining Section under Cutting Boards or by clicking here

You will love them and so will anyone you decide to give them to!

Please order by Tuesday, April 20th for Mother's Day Delivery!

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Backyard BBQ Party Bucket

2010-03-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

Here comes spring! We are excited for beautiful sunny days and warmer weather.

We love these monogrammed party buckets. Perfect for holding loads of your favorite drinks! Use as storage for towels or beach toys. Nice for tailgating or serving snacks at little league. Whatever your lifestyle, this monogrammed party bucket will be an important part of your summer style.

Available in 2 colors at a great price of $32.95. You can afford one for yourself and a friend. Get all the details by clicking here.

Gift of the Day: New Monogrammed Soap Collection

2010-03-11T07:35:00.000-08:00

We love this new monogrammed soap just added to the site! With over 20 styles, you can put the personal touch on soaps with a monogram, single initial or name. Perfect in your guest bath or powder room --- you will look ready for company 24/7 when someone steps in and sees your letter perfect touch.

These soaps are made in Vermont and have such a velvety, luxurious lather you will think you need to save them. But at $31.95 for 3, we think these long-lasting bars can be a regular indulgence.

Customers buy these for hostess gifts, thank yous, birthdays and the holidays. What a great way to freshen up the bathroom for spring. Allow a week for your soaps to be customized just for you. Click here to see the collection. Use promo code 'DAY' to get a discount on this item!

Gift of the Day: New Personalized Melamine Plates

2010-03-10T07:40:00.000-08:00

We love these new personalized plates for little ones. Sassy yet classy designs make them appropriate for toddlers through tweens. We love personalized plates as a first birthday gift! BPA free, made in the USA...these plates are kid-tested and mother approved. Dishwasher safe, but please don't microwave. Allow 7-10 days for your custom plate to be created. See all our plates here.

Westminster Dog Show 2010

2010-03-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

Well its been 2 weeks since we returned home from New York and I'm finally posting our pictures. While the dog show has nothing really to do with monogramming or a Gift of the Day, this blog seemed like the easiest way to share the pictures will all the dog lovers we know.

We gave my mom tickets for Christmas. They are available from the WKC and Ticketmaster. We bought 2-day passes http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org -- the 2011 ones will be available in September so mark your calendars now!

The first day we had the chance to see our friend Merryman Cleveland and her daughter, Bess, who was showing 2 Chinese Cresteds. We have lots of pics of Bess -- her personal paw-paparazzi.

More dogs tomorrow!

Gift of the Day: For the Love of Dogs

2010-02-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

Combine your love for dogs and all things personalized with:

custom preppy lab address stamp
a sweet puppy birth announcement wall tile
Demster the Dalmation wall art
a D is for Dog personalized puzzle

Gift of the Day: Elegant & Affordable Valentine's Day Ideas

2010-02-02T21:12:00.000-08:00

Elegant & Affordable! Give your sweetheart, your friends, and your family a monogrammed gift for Valentine's Day this year. Stemless wine glasses give you the chance to celebrate everyday or special occasions in letter perfect style. Monogrammed vases make grocery store bouquets or posies from your yard look elegant. Monogrammed jewelry is fun for all ages...heart-shaped pendants and bracelets are Valentine's Day perfect and sweet throughout the year. When you give a monogrammed gift, you say 'I Love You' every day! Check out our full line of personalized gifts, hand selected just for you at www.themonogrammerchant.com

Gift of the Day: Personalized Lucite Trays

2009-12-09T22:27:00.001-08:00

How cute can you be? Pretty cute with the many, many interchangeable inserts for these wonderful lucite trays. Trays measure 16" square and have handles for easy carrying. Sides are 2" high so these trays are great for all sorts of purposes. Still available for the holidays through 12/11 (or 12/14 with express shipping) these make great gifts for all the hostesses you know. Fun for a newly married couple, a new house or someone who enjoys entertaining. Trays include one insert for $85 and extra inserts are available for $30. Our Fill Your Sleigh sale gives you 20% off, making the trays $68 through 12/12/09. Add these to your shopping list and you won't be sorry! See all the fantastic choices here

Gift of the Day: Personalized or Monogrammed Paper Cocktail Napkins

2009-12-08T21:37:00.001-08:00

Gift of the Day: Personalized or Monogrammed Paper Cocktail Napkins Just $28.95 for 100. Whatever your style may be, we have a napkin for you. Sophisticated, swirly monograms set your heart on fire? The Paris Monogram Foil Stamped napkin shown at left could be for you. Available in 30 different napkin colors and 14 foil colors, you can design these to suit your decor, a special event or the holidays! Create your own here.

Simple elegance more your style? The Trajan Foil Stamped napkin has one line of personalization for a family name, a boat or plane, a special place...you decide. Napkin is available in 30 different colors, foil in 14 colors. Create yours here.

Personalized napkins take about a week to produce. They are still available for the holidays (through 12/15) and make a great hostess gift, a thoughtful gift for the bartender extraordinaire, or the perpetual party-thrower. You should also consider some for yourself at this price!

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Baseball Caps $25

2009-12-07T19:05:00.000-08:00

Monogrammed baseball caps - a versatile gift! Fun choice for mom to wear in the car pool line, great for a girls weekend at the beach, bridesmaids gifts, family trips, a teacher or coach, tennis player, runner, dog-walker...you get the idea. At just $25, the personalized baseball cap is a thoughtful, affordable choice. Order them in school colors, team colors or a favorite combination. Fun for family pictures! Order by December 15th for Christmas delivery.

See all the colors here.

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Tervis Tumblers -- Hurry! Last Day for Christmas Delivery 12/7!!

2009-12-04T11:11:00.000-08:00

Monogrammed Tervis Tumblers are fantastic gifts. Give them to children with their names --kids love Tervis and you can order matching lids to help prevent spills!

Mugs are great for the coffee drinkers in your life. Some customers say they prefer using the mugs for soup or ice cream. However and wherever you like to use Tervis Tumblers, they are a guaranteed successful gift!Personalize with a name or monogram. Take the customization a step further by adding emblems with your favorite collegiate team or Major League Baseball team.

Don't delay -- order today!

Gift of the Day: Personalized Puzzles

2009-11-29T20:21:00.000-08:00

Gift of the Day: Personalized Puzzles $30. So cute! Educational and fun.

17 designs to choose from...alphabet shown here, USA map available as well as all the important themes -- police cars, pirates, ballerinas and flowers.

We think these puzzles make a great gift for children this holiday season. They would also make wonderful birthday presents or a fun addition to grandparents toy closet. Personalize with a child or family name. Allow 10 days for production. To see all the available styles, click here

Gift of the Day: Notably Chic Note Pads

2009-11-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

A store favorite from the moment it arrived -- the Notably Chic bow note pad. A great gift for just about everyone you know...friends, co-workers, baby sitters, dog sitters, hostesses, newlyweds, college freshman...

Design your custom gift with the great selection of ribbons, fonts and ink colors. You can create the perfect gift to suit any style.

Shown at left is the small size note pad with Party Spot Ribbon. Font Style is MUR in black ink.

Made just for you! Notepads available in 2 sizes: Small ($22) 6" square and Large ($44) 7.5" square Allow one week for production plus shipping.

We've had customers order these for:

Teacher gifts
Hostess thank yous for showers
Birthday gifts for friends
Co-worker gifts
Bridal shower gifts
Dog walkers & baby sitters
Housewarming & hostess gifts
Girls Weekends

Make your list & get started creating your perfect personalized gift. Click here to see the selection.

Gift of the Day: Personalized Christmas Plates

2009-11-12T06:55:00.000-08:00

Today's Gift of the Day is Christmas Plates! Make them yours with a monogram, a family or child's name. Use them as a Cookies for Santa plate or Carrots for Reindeer. We think these plates make a fun, modern option for Christmas china. Personalized Christmas plates make fun gifts for children and families, newlyweds, and hostesses. You can find so many reasons to share these preppy holiday plates with everyone on your list. Available in 29 styles starting at $24.50. See them all here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Playing Cards

2009-11-06T06:27:00.001-08:00

Monogrammed or personalized playing cards (starting at $29.75) make a fun, affordable gift for all the card sharks in your life. Whether the favorite game is poker, bridge or go fish, any card player would love to see his or her initials, name or nickname on a deck or two. One customer bought these for his poker group with 'Make Checks Payable to' and each man's name. What a great idea! His poker group loved them.

See our selection of cards here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Swarovski Crystal Handbag

2009-11-03T18:09:00.000-08:00

Having just seen Michael Jackson 'This is It', we were inspired to choose a sparkly gift of the day. Our Monogrammed Swarovski Crystal Handbag beats out a sequined glove anyday for a signature accessory.

Custom made just for you in New York in about 4 weeks, this bag is available in the two color combinations shown at left. These beautiful bags are an investment -- $725--but as a Gift of the Day, we are offering them for $695 through November 10th. Click here to see more.

Gift of the Day: Colorful, Whimsical Nativity Set

2009-10-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today's Gift of the Day is shocking -- not monogrammed! This adorable 17 piece Nativity Set from Coton Colors Pottery is one of the cutest things out for this holiday season. The colors are cheerful and the faces on the people and the animals have wonderfully sweet expressions. This Nativity Set makes a very special family gift and will be something they can treasure for a lifetime. Specially priced through November 15th at $195. Get more details here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Clear 'Airport' Cosmetic Bag $29

2009-10-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

Today's Gift of the Day is both cute and clever! Our 'Airport' Cosmetic bag is made out of clear plastic so you can store all your liquids and gels (3 oz or less of course) in a handy, yet stylish cosmetic bag. Measures 7.5"w x 5.5"h x 2.25"t

Over 11 leather colors to choose from and 3 monogram styles. Shown here is acorn leather with a hot stamp monogram. Classic combinations would be red leather with a gold monogram, black leather with a silver monogram, royal blue with a gold monogram, kiwi or caribbean blue with a silver monogram.

The price can't be beat -- just $29 including the monogram. As a Gift of the Day, the Airport bag will be 10% off 10/26/09 through 11/2/09.
Check it out here

Another view: Shown below with red leather trim

Gift of the Day: Hand Painted Baptism Plates

2009-10-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

We LOVE our new line of hand-painted plates! These adorable styles solve the challenge of finding a cute yet appropriate baptism gift. You can give one as a friend, family member or god-parent. Several styles are available so be sure to check them out here

These plates come in two sizes (8.25" for $40 and 10.5" for $44) and are lead free and food safe. They can be hung on a wall, placed on display in a book shelf or used everyday for meals and snacks!

Designed and made by artists in the USA. Several styles are available and they also make hanging tile wall plaques too! Be sure to visit our site to see the selection!

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Glass Cutting Board

2009-10-21T05:34:00.001-07:00

Get ready for holiday entertaining and gift-giving with this stylish, yet practical personalized touch for the kitchen or bar! Tempered glass cutting boards in your choice of five patterns (damask shown here, houndstooth, mod circle, diamond and zebra) in five colors (black, brown, green, sky blue, or pink)! Custom design each gift to perfectly suit the recipient.

Our monogrammed cutting boards come in two sizes: Small (11 3/4" x 8") for $39.95 and Large (15 3/4" x 11 3/4") for $51.95. These make fresh, unique gifts for weddings, showers, hostesses and housewarmings!

As a Gift of the Day, these cutting boards will be 10% off October 21 - 27, so order one now and enjoy the savings.

Click here to see our selection!

Gift of the Day: Hand Painted Bow Holder

2009-10-14T20:01:00.000-07:00

The cutest! Our hand painted bow holder with a name, single initial or monogram adds a darling touch to a little girls room. What an adorable way to keep bows organized!

Hand painted here in the USA just for you in a studio with 4 artists, these bow holders are available in 35 different combinations. Let us know if you don't see the color palette you need and we'll see what we can do.

We think these are such a terrific gift for a little girl's birthday, a new baby, a flower girl gift, the possibilities are endless.

Hand painted round wood circle measures 6" x .5" with a 24" double layered hanging ribbon for lots and lots of bows. Comes with a Posey Pin for hanging and a coordinating Posey Flower attached at the bottom.

Only $34.95!!! As a Gift of the Day, these bow holders will be 10% off October 15 - 22. See our complete collection by clicking here

Gift of the Day: MLB Tervis Tumblers - Personalized of course!

2009-10-11T22:46:00.001-07:00

Major League Baseball playoffs are full swing (pardon the pun) with the Yankees, Dodgers and Angels all moving to the next round while the Phillies & Rockies continue to battle it out. All this post-season excitement inspired us to make MLB Tervis Tumblers the Gift of the Day.

What a perfect gift for the baseball lover in your life! Fans young and old would love a Tervis Tumbler with their favorite team's emblem and their name or monogram. Personalized MLB Tervis Tumblers would make a fun stocking stuffer this holiday season. Matching father and son tumblers could be very cute!

Tervis Tumblers insulated products keep cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. They are freezer, dishwasher, and microwave safe and come with a lifetime guarantee. You just can't beat them!

As a Gift of the Day, all MLB Tervis Tumblers will be 10% October 12 - 19, 2009. See all 34 styles here

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Hats, Gloves & Scarves

2009-10-08T21:06:00.001-07:00

Today's Gift of the Day is inspired by the 18 degree temperature this morning and this view outside my window. Winter is on its way and why not get ready with some cute new monogrammed scarves with matching hats & gloves? We carry sizes for both adults & children so you can outfit the whole clan. These would also make fun holiday gifts if you are planning a ski trip or other snowy adventure -- perhaps you are headed 'over the river and through the woods to grandmother's house' this winter.

As the Gift of the Day, all hats, scarves & gloves will be 10% off October 9 - 16th. See them all here

Gift of the Day: Personalized Pumpkin Sign $18

2009-10-04T19:13:00.000-07:00

Put the personal touch on your pumpkin this year with this adorable wood sign! Cute as can be with your name on it and the sign can be used again and again! When Halloween is over, you could hang this sign just about anywhere....you could get it back out for Christmas! Have Santa or a snowman hold it!

Wood sign is made in the USA and hangs with a knotted rope. Shown on the left with a name in Curlz. Our sign measures 3 1/2" x 10" and will look great on pumpkins of all shapes and sizes.
As a Gift of the Day, this personalized wood sign will be 10% off 10/5 through 10/12/2009.

Order one for yourself and one for a friend today!

Gift of the Day: Lilly Pulitzer Personalized Gift Stickers

2009-10-01T20:17:00.001-07:00

Today's Gift of the Day is the Lilly Pulitzer Personalized Gift Sticker. The Southern Belle and Crazy Caravan Blue styles are shown above. With over 31 designs to choose from and prices starting at $35, you'll find plenty of ways to add sassy style to your stationery wardrobe without breaking the bank. From classic to whimsical, there is a design and a color scheme for you in the Lilly line. Generously sized, these personalized gift stickers are 2.5" square so they can't be missed on your packages and gift bags. They'll be 10% off through 10/9. See them here

Lilly Pulitzer has been creating and inspiring preppy style for 50 years! As part of the Jubilee celebration this year, LP has launched a stationery and paper gifts line....you have probably seen the adorable napkins & plates, desk accessories and gift wrap.

Our favorite part of Lilly Pulitzer Stationery is the Personalized Correspondence Line which includes calling cards, gift stickers, folded notes, flat cards and invitations! There is something for everyone in this colorful line-up regardless of age or budget.

We think its a great idea to develop a 'signature style' for your gift-wrapping. It might sound a little snooty but its really a great time and money saving strategy. One of our favorite store customers taught us this trick. She uses only red wrapping paper and then varies the ribbon, gift stickers and enclosure cards to suit the season, the occasion and the recipient. Her gifts always look great and people recognize her red paper every time.

First thing to consider, what types of gifts do you give over and over again....baby, wedding, birthday, hostess, etc?
How do you give gifts...as a couple, a single person or as a family?
What do you like to give as gifts -- homemade pickles, books, wine?

Once you think these things through, you'll be ready to come up with your 'Signature Style' and have the the supplies on hand to wrap gifts in an instant!

Select a few colors you love that will work for most of your gift occasions
Find a personalized gift tag for yourself, you & your spouse or your family
Shop for gift wrap, gift bags, tissue and ribbon in your color palette (don't forget the bottle bags if wine is your thing)
Now you have everything you need to establish your 'Signature Style'

Our Signature Style is hot pink/lime green/turquoise. Great with the Bamboo Pink Sticker and the Winter Playground Green Sticker We find our favorite glossy wrapping paper at Nashville Wraps. The prices are great and the color palette is terrific! Here is a link to our favorite - the bright glossy paper shown above --http://www.nashvillewraps.com/ShowSku.ww?Class=6&Type=168&Page=1 You can also find fabulous grograin ribbon in 100 yard rolls at Nashville Wraps at GREAT prices http://www.nashvillewraps.com/ShowSku.ww?Class=024&Type=949

Enjoy your Perfectly Presented Personalized Gift Wrap!

Gift of the Day: Collegiate Tervis Tumblers

2009-09-28T09:31:00.000-07:00

With October almost here, college football season is in full swing! Whether your team is winning or losing, fond tailgating memories will get you through your work week.

Keep your team spirit alive throughout the year with Collegiate Tervis Tumblers.

Choose from 5 different tumbler sizes
Select your favorite team emblem
Personalize with your name, monogram or nickname (no numbers, please)

Everyone loves Tervis Tumblers! In case you were wondering how it all started, the world’s first insulated tumbler was created in 1946 by Detroit engineering duo Frank Cotter & G. Howlett Davis. Using the insulating properties of air, the two engineers created a permanently sealed, double-walled tumbler that kept cold drinks colder & hot drinks hotter longer than traditional drinkware. The only thing missing was a name but with a simple combination of the last three letters of Cotter & Davis’ names, the brand “Tervis®” was born.

Personalized Tervis Tumblers are dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe. Order them now to enjoy during this football season or think about them as a holiday gift.

Collegiate Tervis Tumblers will be 10% off for a week beginning today.

You can see all 140 school choices here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=369

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Square Vase

2009-09-25T11:36:00.000-07:00

Our Friday Gift of the Day is this versatile square monogrammed glass vase. A great price at $18.95, there are endless possibilities for this vase as a gift. Fun housewarming gift, great gift for any gardener, an interesting hostess or bridesmaids gift....or just buy one for yourself.

The vase measures 7" high so it looks great just about anywhere and doesn't need a ton of flowers to look full.

Some ideas we've had for this vase... fill the bottom with some rocks and add a beta fish as a fun teacher gift; fill with flowers or herbs from your garden to welcome a new neighbor; have your florist make some arrangements in them and give them as hostess gifts at a shower or luncheon.

As a Gift of the Day, this monogrammed vase will be 10% for a week beginning today 9/25/09. Order one here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=2929

Gift of the Day: Halloween Cat Custom Stamp

2009-09-24T05:52:00.000-07:00

Here Kitty, Kitty! Feeling a bit crafty this fall? Mix up a batch of your favorite treats or brew to share with friends, family and co-workers. Put the personal touch on your package with a Halloween custom stamp.

With almost 300 styles to choose from, our custom stamps are available in monograms, single initials and all sorts of themes.

As a Gift of the Day, all Holiday custom stamps will be 10% off through 9/30/09.

Production time is just a week so you have plenty of time to enjoy a spooky Halloween stamp or plan ahead for Christmas and Hanukkah!

See all the holiday stamps here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=179

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Umbrellas

2009-09-21T17:05:00.001-07:00

For all our friends in rain-soaked Atlanta, our Gift of the Day is the monogrammed umbrella!

We have two styles: a golf umbrella ($38) and a folding umbrella ($36.50). Each style is available in a choice of 7 color combinations.

Monogrammed umbrellas ...who could you give one to? A golfer, a shower hostess, a friend in Seattle, a teacher.....get a white one with a blue monogram for a bride as her 'something blue'

As a Gift of the Day, monogrammed umbrellas will be 10% off through 9/28/09.

Buy one here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=238

Gift of the Day: Hand-Engraved Sterling Silver Cuff

2009-09-18T14:20:00.000-07:00

Simply elegant, understated chic bracelet beautiful enough for a special occasion yet designed to wear everyday.

Designed by Andrea Barnett of Dallas, Texas, this custom made cuff bracelet with hand-rolled edges measures a significant 1.5 inches tall at its widest point.

Hand-engraving is an artform so this beauty takes 4-6 weeks to have made. It is worth the wait! An heirloom piece the moment you put it on your arm. I wore mine last night to a party and had a few people order one on the spot.

As a Gift of the Day, this bracelet will be 10% through September 25th. Take advantage of the savings and order one for the holidays now!

Buy it here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=2865&category_id=245

Gift of the Day: Fashion Week Find - Chic Straw Bags

2009-09-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

With Spring 2010 Fashion Week in full swing in New York through Thursday, we thought we'd highlight a Monogram Merchant favorite which is being presented to stylists and fashion writers during the big event.

These chic straw bags were the hit of the Hamptons this summer and you can have one ready for winter and spring trips. People followed me around asking 'Where did you get that bag?' For the record, I was carrying the large shoulder bag in the Hampton ribbon with white monogram.

Completely customized, you can select from the Hobe Sound collection shown left which features beautifully cast Sand Dollars, Scallops or Starfish on gorgeous silk and the Monogram Collection with almost 2 dozen color choices. The bags come in four different styles so there is something for everyone.

Through 9/22/09, all straw bags will be 10% off. You can see the full collection here
http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=246

Gift of the Day: Monogrammed Slippers

2009-09-09T20:33:00.001-07:00

Need a gift for a mom-to-be or a bride? Consider a pair of monogrammed slippers. A great deal for $19.75 and a quick turnaround of about a week.

With the most popular birthday in the US right around the corner (October 5th), you probably know someone who is about to have a baby. These slippers are a popular choice to add some style to your hospital stay.

If you are shopping for a bride, personalize a white pair in blue to honor the 'something blue' tradition!

Great for pedicure parties and girls weekends too. Slippers have velcro closure and come in white, hot pink and lime green.

As a Gift of the Day, monogrammed slippers will be 10% off through 9/17/09 so take advantage of the discount on an already affordable and adorable gift.

See all the color choices here: http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=349

Gift of the Day: Trick or Treat Buckets

2009-09-09T05:45:00.001-07:00

The first feelings of fall in the air and all thoughts turn to what else --- Halloween! Costumes and candy make for a ton of fun. Looking cute while collecting your goodies is easy as can be with one of these personalized Halloween pails. Customize yours with a name or a monogram and you will be the best-dressed ghoul or goblin on the block. Many fabric styles to choose from so you can match your costume or choose a holiday print.

All Halloween trick or treat buckets will be 10% off through September 16, 2009!

To see the other selections, click here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=370

Gift of the Day: Wine Down Wednesday

2009-09-02T20:37:00.001-07:00

Let's face it...wine is a big part of our everyday living. Celebrate Wednesday or Thursday or Friday with a monogrammed etched stemless wine glass.

Fans of the stemless glass say it doesn't topple over and it is easy in the dishwasher. We think it looks great and if it is more practical, well all the better.

This glass can be purchased in sets of 2 or 4. A set of 4 runs $32 which makes it a good price for all sorts of gifts. Production time is usually 10 days - 2 weeks so think ahead for all the wine lovers in your life!

As a Gift of the Day item, these glasses will be 10% off for a week. Promotion code is 'DAY'

Find them here:

http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=2418&category_id=77

Gift of the Day: Celebrate Cash for Clunkers with a Monogrammed Car Tag

2009-09-01T19:48:00.000-07:00

Did you get a new car with the Cash for Clunkers program or know someone who did? Put the finishing touch on a sparkling new car with a monogrammed car tag.

If you missed out on the car deal of the century, spruce up your current jalopy with a cute new personalized car tag.

Custom design the tag to match your car, like our friend 'GHL' or pick your favorite color combination!

Available in flat or 3-D in metal, acrylic or polyethylene in several dozen darling designs, priced $25-$30. Production time is approximately a week.

Get 10% off all car tag orders for a week with promotion code 'DAY'! See our selection of monogrammed car tags here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=358

Debuting the Monogram Merchant's Gift of the Day

2009-08-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

Beginning tomorrow, September 1, the Monogram Merchant.com will inspire and delight you with gift ideas for anyone and everyone you know. Our Gift of the Day will be posted Monday - Friday for your viewing pleasure. All gift ideas featured in 'Gift of the Day' will be 10% off for a week following their post. The promotion code will be 'DAY' --easy to remember, don't you think?

Stay tuned...we'll be back soon with our Inaugural Gift of the Day

Gift of the Day 3 day countdown

2009-08-29T09:21:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday, September 1, the Monogram Merchant.com is launching our "Gift of the Day" campaign via this blog and Twitter. You can follow us on on Twitter (http://twitter.com/themonogramme) to get "Gift of the Day" immediately. We'll have product photos and details here on this blog as well as on our website www.themonogrammerchant.com in our new "Gift of the Day" section. Products featured in "Gift of the Day" will be 10% off for a week from the date of post. We hope to delight and inspire you with our unique personalized gifts and creative suggestions for gift giving.

Beginning September 1st!

2009-08-23T18:47:00.000-07:00

1+1=3: Try a new style this holiday season

2008-11-29T20:10:00.000-08:00

After spending 6 weeks working in the 'Elf Factory' on the Festival of Trees, I have had my quota of inspiration for holiday decorating. One of the best designer tips I heard over and over again was a very simple one...use what you already have in a new way this year.

Sounds easy enough but I needed some visual aids to get my creativity in gear. Late Thanksgiving afternoon, I had some quality time with my mother's extensive magazine collection....after an hour or so with Veranda, Southern Accents and Architectural Digest, I was ready to roll. I hit my mother's silver closet and then took my treasures home for experimenting.

Recently, I've been hooked on the concept of the no.3 which appears repeatedly in Christmas traditions...the wise men, for example. This obsession came from a conversation with the Captain (the professional groomsman) about the philosophy of 1+1=3, otherwise known as 'the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.' This idea is one that can be applied to many areas of life, but it seems particularly appropriate to holiday decorating...after all, tinsel without a tree is just shredded up foil....but add it to lights & ornaments and you've got something.

So back to the project...embracing the advice of using things in a new way and having the no. 3 as a guiding force, I took ornaments, silver containers and a mirror to create a very cool, anthropologie-like centerpiece. My mom declared it 'avant-garde' when she came by to see it the next day. My 3 elements (ornaments, silver pieces & mirror) came together as a stylish holiday decoration. Oddly enough (pardon the pun), I used 3 types of ornaments (balls, birds & pinecones) and 3 types of silver containers (compotes, egg cups & a vase).

The Captain's point of 1+1=3 was fully supported by my new centerpiece. None of those items would have been out this holiday on their own. Together, however, they compose something very interesting and perhaps a bit beautiful. This project is a great example of a thought we can all take with us throughout the Christmas season...how can we become a part of something bigger or better than ourselves? What can we use that we already have to create something beautiful, meaningful or helpful?

A Must See: Four Christmases

2008-11-29T19:57:00.000-08:00

If your family puts the 'fun' in dysfunctional, then you need to run not walk to the movie theater to see Four Christmases. Vince Vaughn & Reese Witherspoon are absolutely hilarious. The movie is only about an hour and a half so you can squeeze it in between all the holiday madness. Trust me when I tell you, its worth so much MORE than the $10 you will pay to see it. You will laugh until you cry over and over again!

Great Holiday Gift Ideas

2008-11-29T19:11:00.000-08:00

With December 1st looming over us like the original Manic Monday, it is a good idea to get your holiday shopping lists together if you haven't already.

So far, we have had lots of shoppers return to the classic favorites....monogrammed stationery, sterling silver gifts, and monogrammed plates and glasses. These gifts make a statement but are always appropriate.

Lets start with acrylic serving pieces...a guaranteed hit and a great price! Our customer favorties are:

12" square acrylic tray $33 & Set 4 Wine Glasses $45

Shown here with Interlocking Script 3 letter Monogram, other styles available
http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=1008&category_id=85

For stylish personalized stationery, you can't beat Sweet Pea Designs. You can get a box of folded notes for less than $25 for almost everyone on your list! We love this new design of the aqua and brown trellis with script monogram. You can design your own on our Sweet Pea Store site...http://monogrammerchant.myspstore.com/

We will continue to share holiday gift giving ideas through out the next few weeks! Happy Shopping! Visit http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/ and have a look around.

Holiday Spirit

2008-11-29T18:48:00.000-08:00

We realize its been awhile since you've heard from us...the MM girls have been preoccupied with big events...the 2008 Festival of Trees and a Thanksgiving weekend move to Chicago.

Festival of Trees was a huge hit this year with incredible attendance and big sales in the holiday boutique. 100% of the event profits go to the Orlando Museum of Art so its important in these lean economic times to do our best to support cultural, community and social services organizations. If you want to learn more about the event, you can visit the OMA's website http://www.omart.org/pages/council-101-festival-trees.

The Monogram Merchant.com created a table display called 'Cocktails on the Rocks' with our friends Gay Harrison Couture Jewelry and designer Sam June. It was a big departure from our normal pink & green preppy holiday traditional style but every now and then its good to color outside the lines. We used zebra striped chairs, a travertine coffee table, a mirrored console with jewel-filled hurricanes, a vintage Hermes tray and a Swarovski crystal monogrammed evening bag. Monogrammed china by Pickard and etched martini, champagne and high-ball glasses put the personal touch on the setting. We selected a piece from the OMA vault to hang over the table...a Mark Bennett blue print of Jeannie's bottle for a special Florida touch. We think Sam was channeling his inner 'Major Nelson' in creating this unique scene.

Great Groomsmen Gifts

2008-10-08T14:22:00.000-07:00

Planning a wedding? Gifts for groomsmen are never an easy task, however, on our site you will find fantastic ideas for gifts, courtesy of an 18-time groomsman who generously serves as our consultant....that's right, he has been in 18 weddings as an usher, best man or groomsman...not sure if there was any ring-bearer duty in that total but oh well.

GWW, also known as Captain, has received a wide variety of gifts and boiled down his favorites to three areas of consideration....gifts involving golf, drinking and traveling. We have taken his recommendations to heart and you can see the selection here . Here's a quick look at some of our favorites!

Gifts for golfing... For your athletically inclined groomsmen, gifts involving golf are sure to be a hole in one (please excuse the pun). One gift the Captain has received, which we think is genius, is a round of golf. It's such a useful gift, and for any golf enthusiast, much appreciated. If you feel like you need to give your groomsmen something tangible along with a round of golf, how about a bottle of his favorite liquor? I don't know a soul on earth who's golf game doesn't improve with a little Jack Daniels in their system. This key chain on the left is also a great addition to a round of golf, it's not only a handy divot tool, but also has a monogrammed ball marker on the opposite side.

Gifts for drinking... We love the idea of giving the boys something personalized (since I mean, like they'll ever buy it for themselves.) This monogrammed decanter on the right is such a practical and handsome gift. At $72 it's also completely reasonable for a personalized gift. You can check out this decanter and some others here. We also highly recommend a monogrammed flask or a fabulous personalized martini shaker. You can check out all of our drinking accessories, more affectionately called barware, here.

Gifts for traveling... For the globe trotting fellows in your wedding party, the options are pretty much endless. Most of our personal favorites are items from Jon Hart Design, passport covers, leather dop kits, and leather luggage tags. The shaving kit on the left is one item that is a huge hit with the gentleman we know. It's a great size for someone who is constantly on short trips for business, big enough for all the essentials, but won't take up too much space in his carry-on.

If you're still having trouble figuring out what to get the boys, the Captain himself also recommends a personalized gift bag. Gift bags can include a couple of smaller items; a money clip, cuff links, booze (naturally), or snacks... think hospitality bag but nicer. Throw it all in a monogrammed tote, and you're good to go!

Things We Love...

2008-10-08T13:34:00.000-07:00

... Week of October 7, 2008...

PUSHING DAISIES... in a random act of Netflixing (yes I just turned netflix into a verb), I came across this little gem of a television show. In a sea of television shows full of melodramatic love affairs (yea I'm talkin' to you Meredith Grey), general smut (has anyone seen the new 90210, it almost makes you miss Brenda Walsh...), and over acting (anything on FOX), Pushing Daisies is charming, light hearted, and honestly funny. The second season just started, and due to that lovely writer's strike of 2008, the first season is only 9 epsiodes so you can netflix and catch up in a snap. I mean if nothing else, that Lee Pace is kinda hot.

COSMETIC BAGS... These amazing silk cosmetic bags by Jan Sevadjian are not only a steal at $32.95, they are really attractive too. If you are older than 14 it's time to trade in your "gift with purchase" Clinque makeup bag and treat yourself to a big girl cosmetic bag. I use mine in my gigantic purse (see previous Things We Love posts about that), to keep all the essentials: advil, pens, hair accessories, random jewelry, lipgloss, etc. ... pretty much all the things that generally find their way to the bottom of my purse. They come in a variety of different plaids, check them out at The Monogram Merchant!

TAILGATING... This may sound like a no brainer, I mean who doesn't love a legitimate excuse to drink during daylight hours, but as someone who graduated from school a year or so ago, it's one of those things you don't realize you love till you aren't doing it EVERY Saturday. There is something to be said for getting up at 8 am and spending the day drinking and hanging out with 100,000 other people, who are all there for the same reason you are. And as someone who went to a school whose football team disappointed us on more than one occasion (how about them Clemson Tigers huh?)... who even cares if you make it to the game, tailgating is way more than half the battle anyway.

Things We Love...

2008-10-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

...Week of October 1st Edition...

BIG KEY FOBS These key chains are the BEST for someone who either A) loses their keys all the time B) seems to always carry a big bag or C) both of the above (like me). For some reason I always feel the need to carry a huge purse, you know just in case the world collapses, I'll have everything I need. However, on a day to day basis my huge purse tends to just swallow my keys rather than save the world. These key fobs make it SO easy to find your keys, plus they are tres adorable. I love these navy and pink elephants but they come in all sorts of cute animals and motifs here.

PLASTIC AVIATOR SUNGLASSES I love that aviators are back in style, but to me, the metal rimmed aviators just scream summer. Everyone updates their wardrobe for the change in seasons, but sometimes accessories never make the transition. I have the Kate Spade pair on the right in navy blue and adore them. I think plastic aviator sunglasses are the perfect way to keep wearing the aviator trend through the fall without looking like you're under the impression it's still beach season.

OCTOBER It's only the 2nd of October and the weather is already changing here in Orlando. October pretty much has it all; it's the height of tailgating season, Major League Baseball postseason, time to pull out sweaters and jackets (well maybe not here in Orlando just yet), humidity takes a vacation, and of course Halloween (who doesn't love a good costume party and an unbeatable excuse to eat candy?!) While we could still pretend it was summer in September, October is undoubtedly the fall, and I for one, am happy it's here!

Gifts to Make Your Flower Girl's Heart Skip

2008-09-17T12:45:00.000-07:00

What on earth are you going to get the star of your wedding? (and no I don't mean you). From my experience, the flower girl is usually under the impression that all these wedding shenanigans are for her. And while clearly it's your day, honestly, besides maybe your mom, the flower girl probably grasps the importance of the day more than anyone. She is so excited to be there, she can barely stand it. She deserves a gift that shows your appreciation for her being there, I mean she did make it down the aisle without crying and only stole the spotlight for 5 minutes tops... she deserves a little somethin'. Here are some ideas for your little flower girl, incase you've been a grown up to long to remember what little girls like.

Unless your flower girl has truly unfortunate short hair like I did as a child, a monogrammed hair accessory can be a great and cherished gift. She can wear it on the big day and then keep it as a useful new addition to her wardrobe. The personalized barrette to the left is only $45, and will definitely make your girl feel special. You can look at this barrette at The Monogram Merchant, and check out some other options as well.

A precious picture frame for your precious flower girl is also a great option. What a better way to make her feel like a part of your group of bridesmaids and friends than with this "The Girls" pictures frame for $49.75? Add a picture of her with the bridesmaids and yourself and it's a homerun of a gift. Speaking of photos, a photo album can also be a great way for your flower girl to keep her memories of your wedding day (or is it her day? I forget). Anyway, this photo album will keep all her photos safe, not to mention is seriously adorable.

If you have a budding fashionista on your hands, this small Queen Bee Bag is a must. Not only will she feel like one of the "big girls", but she'll be styling when she uses it after the wedding at the neighborhood block party. This bag runs for $98, a little pricier than the other options, but there is no question she will LOVE it. Check it out here.

The most important part of giving a gift at your own wedding is showing your appreciation for those who have gone out of their way to be part of your day. Make sure the gift is something she will LIKE and actually use, we at The Monogram Merchant think all these gift ideas will be a sure thing with your little flower girl.

Things We Love...

2008-09-17T11:00:00.001-07:00

...Week of September 17th edition...

JON McLAUGHLIN We here at the merch do not get any work done without a little background music. I'm half surprised the ipod speakers haven't started smoking from overuse. Anyhoodle, one gentleman we have yet to get tired of is Jon McLaughlin. I have yet to meet a single soul who doesn't like his music, and if you don't know who he is, head over to your itunes and start downloading. Personal favorites of the Merch are: Blue Skies, Throwing a Line, and Until You've Got Love. If this is your first Jon Mclaughlin experience, then all I have to say is; you're welcome in advance.

TERVIS TUMBLERS This may seem like a no brainer, but I am sorry, there is seriously nothing better than Tervis Tumblers. I am personally a big fan of the Big T because it can actually hold an entire diet coke AND ice, which I have yet to see the average cup accomplish. Plus the best part of the Tervis is they don't ever sweat, so you're not leaving rings of water everywhere. They keep your drinks colder, longer, not to mention you can have them monogrammed or personalized with your favorite school. I realize they aren't exactly fine china or anything, but as everyday wear, you can't beat them. You can pick some out at The Merch.

TELEVISION WITHOUT PITY I love my TV shows. I'm not all about watching aimless television, but the shows I follow, I follow RELIGIOUSLY. My friends know not to call me during LOST, I am obsessed with Project Runway, I'll probably cry if Friday Night Lights gets cancelled, and don't even get me started on Prison Break. However, I've found a website that completely feeds into my addiction, http://www.televisionwithoutpity.com/, is any television junkie's dream. Personally, I mostly just read the show recaps, which even if you've seen the episode are downright hilarious. The people who write recaps for TWoP add their own snarky comments, definitely worth hours of entertainment.

Whales, Snails, and Alligator Tails

2008-09-17T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sophomore year of college, my roommate literally looked at me and said, "do you really need another skirt with whales on it?", well I was in college in the deep south, the skirt was on sale, and I practically came out of the womb in head to toe J.Crew, so the answer is "yea I do". And while I've moved on from the J.Crew embroidered Critter skirt, I still can't help but fall in love with anything whale related. It may seem childish, but I think you'd be surprised to find that most adults, probably yourself included, have a favorite animal. Whether you collect chickens for your kitchen, embroider bunnies on everything for your daughter, or wear whales on your skirt, there are tons of grown up ways to have a favorite animal.

Animal motifs can show up your sense of style, for instance, whales and alligators give off a preppy vibe, fish have an outdoorsy, southern feel, and bumble bees tend to look classic. These return address stamps are a perfect way to show off your animal of choice. They don't look at all childish, but have way more personality than a plain return address label. Paired with some personalized stationery, these make a great statement, you'll probably be adding these stamps to everything. You can get yourself one here.

Stamps aren't the only subtle way to bring back your favorite animal. Stationery you would use for personal notes, (like the whale fold-over card up top) are far more whimsical and fun than the notes you use for business. Having a second set of stationery for personal use gives you the opportunity to put some personality into it, and frankly paper like that makes me think of excuses to write a note. You can pick up your own animal stationery at The Monogram Merchant.

Whether it's stationery, stamps, stickers, or calling cards, animal motifs aren't just for kids anymore.

Things We Love...

2008-09-11T12:35:00.001-07:00

We here at The Monogram Merchant like to think we have pretty good taste and we're certainly not short on any opinions. Here are 3 things we love right now.. you know.. in case you were wondering...

30 ROCK hands down the funniest show on television. Half my friends will disown me on the spot for saying it but... I think it's funnier than The Office. Yea, I said it. If you haven't seen it before, I suggest you immediately netflix (which by the way is another thing I love) seasons 1 and 2 before season 3 starts on October 30th. Tina Fey and Tracy Morgan are great, but seriously, Alec Baldwin is hilarious (even though, let's face it, he's a little crazy). with lines like :"Tracy Jordan: I'm gonna make you a mix tape. You like Phil Collins? Jack: I've got two ears and a heart, don't I?" what's not to love? Definitely check it out.

DESIGN HER GALS We LOVE this website. It is so much fun to play on and all their products to buy are super cute. It's like having a virtual Barbie to dress up. There are hundreds of clothes, hair colors, and accessories to dress up girls to look like you, your friends, anyone you want! You can put your personalized girl on stationery, notepads, aprons, mugs, pretty much whatever you'd like! Hours and hours of fun, definitely worth the trip when you're in need of a mental break. Check it out at http://www.designhergals.com/

MONOGRAMMED WALL ART I mean how cute is that I ask you? I LOVE this monogrammed wall art. I'm still not sure what room I think these would look fabulous in, but I'm leaning towards a bedroom. They come in all kinds of cute background designs, I'm really into green and navy right now, but I think the light pink striped one would be j'adore-able in a little girl or babies room. They each come in a crisp white matted frame, ready for immediate display anywhere you choose! Look them up on our website, you'll definitely want one (don't you think they'd really spruce up a dorm room?)http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=180

Initial Etiquette

2008-09-11T09:04:00.000-07:00

It seems like there is always an event to be buying a gift for, whether it's a wedding, birthday, christening, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Flag Day, Boxing Day, whatever it may be, the list goes on and on. A personalized gift is always appropriate and ALWAYS appreciated, it shows you put thought into the gift AND planned ahead, which is the ultimate double whammy of good gift giving. Personalizing can seem daunting if you don't know the rules. Here is a simple guide to proper monogramming that should get you through even the most obscure gift giving etiquette.

For a Married Couple (or soon to be):

The monogram will contain the bride's first initial, the surname of the couple, and the groom's first initial, in that order. For instance Rachel and Anthony White would be:

The monogram style should be chosen to complement the taste of the couple and the item you are monogramming....traditional, modern, ecclectic, whimsical and so on.

Monogramming a Gift for a Woman:

A monogrammed gift for a woman should include her first, middle and last initial or if she is married, her first, maiden name, and married name initials. Traditionally, a woman's monogram is presented in first, last, middle initial order. So for Jessica Catherine Parker her monogram could be as follows:Tradition dicates that a woman's maiden initials are always appropriate to use, even after she is married. However, it is more common to use a woman's first, maiden, and married surname initials once she is wed. For instance, if Jessica married Anthony Dalton, her new monogram would be:

Monogramming a Gift for a Man:

For men's gifts, it is very important to consider the shape of the item to be monogrammed when choosing the order of the initials. When monogramming something for a man, many people prefer to use the initials in the first, middle and last order. This letter format is often found on personal items such as briefcases, luggage, shirt pockets and cuffs. For these kind of items, Benjamin William Rogers would be:
It is also correct to put a gentleman's surname initial in the middle. You might use that style on items such as cufflinks, keyrings, and glassware. for Benjamin that would be:

Monogramming Gifts for Children:

Children often receive monogrammed or personalized gifts when they are born and to commemorate special occasions such as birthdays and christenings. The same monogramming rules apply for children as for adults. Gifts for small children, both boys and girls traditionally follow the first, last, and middle initial order. For example, both Sarah Amelie Whitlow and Stephen Andrew Whitlow's monogram would be as follows: As Stephen Andrew Whitlow grows older, it will become more appropriate to move to the first, middle, last initial order for his monogram.

When giving a child a personalized item, it is important to consider where and how they will be using it. You may not want to put too much information on something a child will have in public when they are not in the company of a parent or another adult. For example, customers will often choose to use a monogram versus a name on something like a backpack.

When ordering a gift for a child, it is important to remember their age and their use for the item when choosing a monogram style and font. A curvy script may look great on a christening gown, but a simpler type font may be best for items used day to day like bibs and onesies.

Check out http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/ for more monogramming tips and great gift ideas to put all your new found monogramming knowledge to use!

Not to be Left out...

2008-09-10T13:27:00.001-07:00

In my haste to introduce you all to my yearbooked friends, I left out Ally, who appears to be channelling every 80's television mother there ever was. Creating the perfect storm of 80's and early 90's mothers, a delightful combination of 90210's Mrs. Walsh, Mrs. Cosby, and Family Ties' Mrs. Keaton, Ally's a true 1980's gem.

Uncle Jesse called, he was wondering if you were free for dinner and dancing at the Smashbox on Friday... you're lookin' good my friend.

Always wanted Kelly Kapowski's Bangs? How about a Farrah Flip??

2008-09-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

Is that you Jessie Spano?

Yesterday here at the Merch was a rough day. We're pretty sure something was amiss in the moon and stars. No seriously, I even tried looking it up yesterday. Well today has already gotten off to a MUCH better start thanks to an email from one of my dear college friends who has way too much time on her hands (which appears to be a pattern for those of us with entry level jobs right out of college). Jenn must have spent HOURS yearbooking all of us at http://www.yearbookyourself.com/ and I suggest you stop whatever you are doing and devote at least the next hour to yearbooking yourself and your loved ones (it's good for a serious laugh).

Doesn't Jess look lovely up at the top? Clearly she was meant for the 80's, unfortunately we were only 2 years old when mall rat bangs were in style, but I'm thinking Jess is going to start backcombing her hair and buying Aqua Net in bulk any day now. Speaking of hairspray, is that Tracy Turnblad on the right? Oh wait that's just Courtney being her stylish self. I mean, Good Morning Baltimore! that is one fine looking hairdo.

The best thing about yearbookyourself.com is that there is a hairdo from every year for the past 40 years or so, which gives you tons of options to embarrass your friends. For instance Jenn over here on the left, holy hairdo on that one. I'm still not sure if that's Jenn or Tootie from The Facts of Life. Jury is still out on that one, but I think those bangs would be, to throw out a pun, bangin' when it comes time for our group to make it back for a Clemson football game. Just a thought Jenn, you could start a hair revolution.

I'm sure both Kate and Jessie think they've dodged a bullet by not making it on the http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/ blog yet. Au contraire my dear friends, your turn is a comin'. Both Kate and Jessie have amazing 90's hairdos that are not to be missed.

You may be thinking, "Hold the phone, how did you get a picture of my 1st grade gym teacher?!" While she does hold a striking resemblance to many a 1990's jungle gym maven, no worries, it's just Kate really working an early 90's feathered number. I mean really, I don't think Kate has ever looked better.

Remember your best friend's older sister you were always super jealous of, you know the girl in the late 90's who you thought was so fashionable and cool? Yup, there she is on the left, worried about your judgment yet? It's ok, I promise Jessie is very fashionable and cool these days, although I doubt even she would have the patience and talent to recreate those bangs. I'm 99% sure those took at least 3 heat styling tools and 4 hair products.

It wouldn't be fair to subject all my friends to the blog without putting up my own picture as well. I've always said I was meant to be in high school in the late 80's or early 90's, I mean I have the natural curl and frizz any smart girl at Bayside High School would be jealous of. However, yearbook yourself, has proven me wrong, as clearly the 70's were more my speed. Anyhoodle, while yearbookyourself.com has nothing to do with monogramming (although I guess you could call this yearbook personalization if you want to get all technical), it's certainly worth the break from work or school for a solid hour of entertainment.

Here's hoping I still have friends after this is posted.

The Crittendens Make a Splash in the Swamp!

2008-09-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

Tailgating, sporting your team colors, cheering on your school... nothing says Fall like a good college football game! Now some of us are fans and others of us are FANS. Personally, when bad weather hits, I'm out of the stadium in a flash and watching the game from a dry corner of a sports bar. I clearly fall into the lowercase fan category. However, the Crittendens have proven to be the ultimate in uppercase FANS during a recent trip to a Gator game. The opening game of the season in Gainesville was against Hawaii, and honestly, Hawaii didn't bring along the best weather they had to offer.

Before the start of the game the Crittendens were recognized on the field and were such troopers for standing there in the driving rain! They were literally swamped in the Swamp! The only thing that could have made the perfectly Gator color coordinated Crittendens cuter (and much more comfortable) would be a monogrammed umbrella of course!! This umbrella is the perfect accessory for game day, it'll slip over your wrist leaving you two free hands for tailgating or cheering and personalized with your monogram, it'll never get lost! Every well prepared and dedicated fan needs one.

The football season is just beginning, and unfortunately, so is hurricane season; so don't get caught out in the rain without one! You can get one in a variety of colors (although the Leopard is my personal favorite) here: http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=238.

If you want to see the Crittenden's heroic fanship in it's entirety, check out this youtube video taken from a much drier location: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0-fsSnLfxc.

Mommy Cards

2008-08-05T17:33:00.000-07:00

Need a great gift for a new mother? Order her some Mommy Cards....calling cards she can use when she meets other parents in the park, on play dates, Starbucks, at church or wherever people with young children meet and mingle.

Usually Mommy Cards have the usual contact information for the mother...name, cell phone, home phone and email address in addition to having the child or children's information. So a card might read

'Amy McChain'

407-555-1232 (Home)

407-555-1212 (Mobile)

amy@mcchain.com

Mother of Annabelle

You can use any calling or flat enclosure card for this purpose. As long as there is room for at least 4 lines of text, you are in business! To see our options, http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=95

Black Tie Home Run!

2008-07-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

Carrying this monogram Swavorski crystal evening bag will make you feel fabulous everywhere you go!

If you have some special events coming up this fall and holiday season, you need to treat yourself to this very special accessory. From Palm Beach to Manhattan, our customers have been thrilled with their evening bags.

Both styles come with a chain to carry the bag over the shoulder. As you can see, there are two monogram styles to choose from and believe it or not, over 30 colors.

Shown at the top, the CBF is the block style monogram, clear crystals with a jet monogram. We like this combination because it looks great with everything and can be carried all year round.

The GHL is a script style monogram in black jet crystals with aurora borealis crystal monogram. This beauty has a stunning sparkle.

Don't forget...the initial impression lasts forever!

These bags are created just for you. Please allow approximately 6 weeks for production. Wouldn't this make a great wedding gift for a bride from her bridal party? She would never forget it! $725. Learn more here. http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=1022&category_id=154

Gifts for Summer Travels

2008-07-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

Do your summer plans call for visiting family and friends? If so, you are in need of a gift for your hosts! We all know its customary to show up with something special for our gracious beach or mountain house owning loved ones, yet finding the right gift can prove to be a challenge. Here are a few ideas intended to inspire:

Hand-painted and personalized key fobs $21.95. These adorable wood ball key fobs come in a wide variety of styles for the beach, the mountains and everywhere in between. An especially great choice for the preppy-at-heart, these key rings make it almost impossible to lose your keys. Find one for everyone on your list here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=115

Personalized pottery with a family name and their favorite destination makes a wonderful gift. These pieces are available in beach, lake and mountain house themes in a variety of sizes. The oval platter shown here is $120. You can order this one or find other styles here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=1273&category_id=140

Last but certainly not least! For your more traditional hostess, a guest book would be unique yet practical. These lovely artisan quality books are made in Dallas. This particular style comes in a lake house or beach house version, but you can personalize it to your hearts desire. Find out more here. http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/category.php?category_id=129

Toast the Happy Couple with a Classic Keg Party: Hostessing an engagement party in red-letter style!

2008-07-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

THE KEG!

When the groom-to-be requested a keg for this summer party, it set the tone for the entire evening! How do two traditional-type hostesses honor a Manhattan bride and her fun-loving fiance?

We started with a pony which needed a little fixing up. The Bud Lite was perfectly chilled thanks to our keg king, Chris, who fought the summer heat and iced it for over 6 hours by the time the party started. The keg, however, left much to be desired in the looks department. Our solution? Add a monogram bar towel! As you can see from the before and after photos, the towel was the perfect accent and a useful one too!

With the keg as inspiration, I think I've come up with a great engagement gift idea for this couple....personalized, collegiate Tervis Tumblers...perfect for keeping beer cold in the summer heat. By sharing this with you, I'm blowing the surprise ... L & D, I hope you don't already have these!

The set of 4 Ohio State 16 oz tumblers personalized with the bride & groom's initials or last name can be found here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=784

For those of you who are wondering where the party went after the monogrammed keg, here are a few highlights....the theme of the evening was 'Toledo meets Manhattan' to include the hometowns of the bride and groom as well as honoring the city where they met. We had sort of fancy hors d'oeuvres, a comfort food Midwestern dinner, and a dessert to cover both...buckeyes and cheesecake. We decorated with Ohio State and I Love NY and used black, white and red to tie it all together. Some of the recipes were requested by the party guests so they are included here as well.

Barefoot Contessa Virginia Ham http://www.barefootcontessa.com/recipes/1.html (We used 2 cloves of garlic instead of 6; after all, this party was celebrating romance!)

Buckeye Candy http://www.cooks.com/rec/doc/0,197,159178-224192,00.html ( We did not use nuts but we cheated and used the chocolate dipping shell)

A good time was had by all and the party went well into the a.m. Some highlights I will share that made our evening extra special.... an iPod loaded with great tunes brought by a thoughtful groomsman; a volunteer bartender; and a happy couple we all were thrilled to celebrate!

A few suggestions for all those late-night hostesses out there...if someone happens to bring you a bottle of your favorite wine, there is no reason you need to share it -- its perfectly polite to drink it all yourself! For entertainment, make sure you have some fun DVDs or something which appeals to a crowd on your DVR (thankfully I still had the Concert for Diana from Summer 2007 which led to an Elton John sing along at 2:45 a.m.). My usual program line-up of Oprah, General Hospital and the like drew ridicule from my late night cohorts! For your perhaps unexpected but most welcome overnight guests, clean sheets in the guest room, water glasses and a few new toothbrushes.

With several of us sleep deprived on Sunday, we came up with a new motto "We sure aren't as young as we used to be, but we are just as fun!" I think I will order some cocktail napkins printed with that saying for hostess and holiday gifts!

When Friends from Work Get Married: Gifts in Paper for Showers & Weddings

2008-06-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

It is wedding season. Friends, family and colleagues will be inviting you to showers, parties and the big event itself. Sometimes you know exactly what gift to buy and sometimes you can't think of anything!

When a work friend gets married, gift giving takes on a different dimension. You need your gift to look nice enough but not over the top. It can be a tricky situation.

The gift of paper is a great solution for shower and wedding gifts for friends from the office.

For a shower honoring the bride, you could give her personalized notepads printed with her name. This colorful personalized pad is $31.50 and you can find it here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=922&page=5&category_id=55

If you are looking for a gift for the bride & groom, these personalized coasters are always well-received. 100 personalized coasters are $39 and the acrylic holder is an additional $9. A great way to add the personal touch to entertaining! Find them and other styles here
http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=915

One more idea is ordering notecards printed with the bride's new name or the couples name. These black diamond pattern cards are a crisp new design. 10 notecards are $18, 25 notecards are $36. You can get more information and see other designs here http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=1029&page=4&category_id=48

The custom stamp shown above is $40 and comes in many styles. For more details, visit http://www.themonogrammerchant.com/item.php?item_id=1310&page=5&category_id=64

Happy Shopping!