How Personalization Works: Getting the Name Exactly Right

Personalized gifts are wonderful when the name is right and frustrating when it is not. Since each plaque is made to order with a name printed into the artwork, it helps to know exactly how the process works. This guide explains what happens from the moment you type the name to the moment the plaque arrives.

What gets personalized

Each plaque is solid acrylic about 0.59 in (1.5 cm) thick, cut to the outline of an illustrated design. One name, between 1 and 30 characters, is printed into the artwork. The effect looks three-dimensional but is printed on a flat surface rather than carved. There is no LED and no wooden base, and the finished piece stands on its own.

The golden rule: we print what you type

The most important thing to know is that we print exactly what you enter. We do not correct spelling, change capitalization, or add punctuation. If you type MIA with all capitals, that is how it will appear. If you type mia in lowercase, that is how it will appear. This keeps things simple and predictable, but it means you are the final proofreader.

A short pre-order checklist

  • Spell the name the way the recipient writes it.
  • Check capital letters and spacing.
  • Include hyphens or apostrophes if they are part of the name.
  • Count characters if the name is long. The limit is 30, including spaces.
  • Read it aloud and then read it letter by letter.

Choosing which name to use

Think about what feels natural to the recipient. A first name is classic. A nickname can feel warmer. A family surname with the word The works well for a household. For a gift to a teacher or coach, a title plus last name is common. If you need ideas for particular occasions, the appreciation gift plaques and family and home gift plaques show typical uses.

Longer names and short names

Names between 1 and 30 characters are accepted. A short name usually looks clean and balanced in the design. A very long name may appear smaller within the artwork to fit. If you are choosing between a full name and a first name, consider how the finished plaque will look on your shelf.

Picking a design and size

Choose the design first, then the size. The six sizes along the longest side are 3.94, 5.91, 7.87, 9.84, 11.81, and 13.78 in (10 to 35 cm). Smaller sizes suit nightstands and desks, while larger sizes suit mantels and wide shelves. Browse All Plaques to compare options.

What happens after you order

  1. You place the order with the name you typed.
  2. The plaque is made to order, with production taking 3 to 5 business days.
  3. It ships with tracking. Delivery is typically 7 to 15 business days in the US and 10 to 25 elsewhere.

Shipping is a flat $7.99, and orders over $139 ship free. More detail is on the shipping policy page.

Why returns work differently

Because each plaque is printed with a specific name, personalized items are not returnable for a change of mind. This is why spelling matters. If a plaque arrives damaged or misprinted, we will remake it or give you a full refund within 30 days. If we printed something different from what you typed, that is a misprint and we will fix it. Read the refund policy for the exact terms.

Buying for someone else

If you are not sure how a name is spelled, ask a mutual friend or family member. Avoid guessing, especially with names that have common alternate spellings. A quick message before ordering can save disappointment.

Need help?

If you have a question before ordering, write to support@velmigood.com. We are VELMI GOODS LLC, based in Sheridan, Wyoming.

Ready to personalize? Browse the collection, type the name carefully, and check it one more time before you order.