I regularly write about monogrammed gifts here on the CGG, in part because I’m a big fan (dating back to a denim jacket I had custom monogrammed with rhinestones in high school). I think adding a monogram to even the most generic gift – like say, towels – helps ramp up the personalization and luxe factor, making it feel like it was chosen just for you. Of course in many situations, it is, as oftentimes monogramming requires some handcrafted customization. With that in mind, I’ve picked out five special gift ideas today that all incorporate a little bit of namesake customization.
Handpainted Still Life Monogram Letters – $48 each @ Anthropologie
I actually spotted these during a recent visit to Anthro and meant to write about them anyway. Essentially they’re large metal letters overlaid with a handpainted canvas. You can spell out a word, initials, or just go for the first letter of your first name for a bold design statement. Anthro, for the record, regularly has letter-inspired items, including, at the moment, hooks and another style of wall lettering made from vintage books. Cute!
Cursive Monogram Mugs – $8 each or 2 for $12 @ Indigo
Sip your morning brew with a mug that truly says ‘you’ with one of Indigo’s stylin’ cursive script mugs. The simple white and black motif won’t offend anyone’s kitchen decor sensibilities, while the customization can lead to all kinds of cute opportunities. To avoid fighting over hot chocolate after school, give each of your kiddies a different mug. Or, celebrate your nuptials by purchasing matching mugs with your new last name initial.
Made-to-Order Knit Sweater – $260 @ Good Yarns
The Harry Potter series famously highlighted the hand-knit sweaters Mrs. Weasley crafted for her children (and Harry). This Canadian-based shop can give you a Potter-inspired, snuggly sweater of your own, available in navy or red with the golden letter of your choice. A quirky yet lovely idea for the upcoming chilly season.
Monogram Candles – $11.25 each @ Illume
These all-natural candles make splendid hostess gifts – the price point is perfect while the customization highlights just how much you care. They come in an earthy red cedar scent that’ll bring a bit of the outdoors in, and each candle / box has its own unique label done up in a vaguely Victorian style. Note that sadly, not all letters receive representation from this line – if you’re friends with the Zimmermans or a girl named Frances, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Gold Cursive Letter Necklace – $42 @ Olive Yew
Monograms and jewelry have been going hand-in-hand for eons, but Olive Yew’s dainty charm necklaces have a little secret: they’re actually made with a custom font that no other brand has, making this a truly special pick. You can select from any letter in the alphabet for this gold-plated beauty (which also comes in silver and rose gold). I personally adore it as a bridesmaid pick, or as a Sweet 16 birthday gift for your favourite niece. As an aside, be sure to take a peek through Olive Yew’s expansive and affordable line – you’ll be hard-pressed not to snap up a few gems for yourself!
Well I’m about ready to sign off (har har) but first, I’m psyched to give away one of Olive Yew’s beautiful gold cursive letter necklaces. No worries if you don’t win, their pretty pieces are also available at a range of boutiques in Canada (although not guaranteed to be in stock) including: Vancouver, BC – Complements Home Accents, Edmonton, Alberta – Shades of Gray Boutique, Vancouver, BC - Red Tulip Gift Gallery, Port Stanley, Ontario - She Sells Boutique, Saint John, NB – Canada In Pursuit. In the meantime, here’s how to enter:
1) Leave a comment by October 8th with a link back to your favourite piece on the Olive Yew website AND your favourite featured monogram gift idea from this post.
2) Entries are limited to one per person / per email address / per household (or more if you score bonus entries). A random draw will be conducted on or around October 2nd to select the winners, who will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen in their place.
3) Entries are limited to Canadians that have reached the age of majority in their province. Quebec is not eligible for this promotion.
4) Bonus Entry: Check out what Olive Yew is up to on Facebook and Twitter by liking / following them, then leave a comment on their wall / tag them in a Tweet. Finally, leave links back to your social media activities in the comments below. For the record, you’re under no obligation to mention the CGG. In fact, get creative with your commentary – tell Olive Yew what you love about their line!