When you monogram an item for one person, the first initial of the first initial of the first name on the left, the first initial of the last name in the center (which will be larger), and the first initial of the middle name on the right which forms a traditional monogram.
For Non-Traditional monograms, the three first initials are placed in order and are all the same size. Non-Traditionals should only be used for the initials of an individual not a couple. Nontraditional monograms are generally used in more casual instances whereas traditional is more formal.
For a couple's monogram, the first initial of the last name should be in the center, the first initial the woman's first name on the left, and the first initial of the man's first name on the right.
There are a few general best practices that we recommend when giving an engraved gift. First, when giving an item as a gift, it should be their name, not yours. For example, if you are getting married and handing out engraved pens to your groomsmen as presents, it should be their name and not that of you and your spouse. Also, less is more when it comes to your engraved message. The persons name, date of event, and name of event. A short phrase or quote on the back of a piece is acceptable. If you have a personal message to go along with the gift, it is generally best to include that in a card that would accompany the engraved gift.
Military Titles
Military rank should be treated the same as any professional title. A military officer retains their current rank upon retirement with the restriction that the word 'retired' or the abbreviation 'ret.' appears after their rank, name, and branch of service. As an example retired Air Force Major John Smith would read 'Maj. John Smith USAF (Ret).' A list of military rank abbreviations can be found here.