How to Pluralize Your Name Correctly this Christmas Season

With the holiday season quickly approaching, I am so excited to share this quick and simple guide on how to pluralize your last name.  As an artist, and as a business owner who offers many personalized products, I have lots of opportunities to use last names and want to help you make sure that all your season's greetings as grammatically correct as they are cute!

Disclaimer:  I am a self-proclaimed grammar snob.  I have loved all things English and grammar since I was a young girl, and my ninth grade English teacher, Mrs. Watkins, only solidified this in me.  It is my hope that this guide will provide you with grammar help that will ensure you get it right every time!  

Rule Number 1:  Never, ever, EVER use an apostrophe when making your name plural.  An apostrophe makes your name possessive, which would work like this:

"Look at Sarah's dog!"  Unless you're referring to something of someone's, no apostrophe necessary.  Like, ever. 

Rule Number 2

If the last letter of your last name is not s, z, ch, sh, or x...

All you need to do is add an s to the end of the name!  So easy, right?!  For example:

• "Merry Christmas from the Johnsons!"
• "With Love from The Smiths"
• "Congratulations to the Hollys"

If your last name does end with an s, z, ch, sh, or x...

Simply an "es" to the end of your name.  This might seem confusing at first, but it's really easy.  Here's how they'll look written out:

• "Happy Everything with Love from The Cummingses"
• "Happy Holidays from The Perkinses"
• "Best Wishes to the Jacobses"

I know, I know.  It looks a little foreign at first, doesn't it?!  If you're ever in a situation where you aren't sure whether the name should have an -s or an -es, there is a super simple solution.

Rule Number 3

Just keep the singular version of the name and add "family" to the end!  This option allows you to get it right, every single time, without worrying or wondering if you've gotten it just right.  Plus, for those names that just look strange with an -es on the end, it makes things a little prettier, too.  Check these out:

• "Merry Christmas from The Cummings Family"
• "Warm Wishes from The Johnson Family"
• "We're thrilled to welcome the Jacobs Family"

I hope this guide will help you as you make your holiday extra special this year!  Be sure to check out our personalized Holiday Collection items (click here!) and put your new grammar knowledge to use.  I can't wait to help make this season your happiest yet!