Monica Rachel Gordon

Professional calligrapher & instructor with over two decades of experience with private & corporate clientele.

To me, calligraphy is so much more than mere writing in a pretty way. It is evocative of all that it means to be human. It is of course visual, but also touch, sound, smell, thought, language, sharing, communication, expression, emotion, action, beauty, history, posterity; too much meaning to describe in a paragraph! Suffice to say, it is one of the treasures of humanity that I am proud to help preserve in my own small way.

Fortunately, even in this digital age where the possible future demise of hand lettering looms, calligraphers all over the world refuse to allow artistic lettering and flourishing to fade away. It is such a timeless and beautiful art to practice and share that it continues to find passionate supporters both in artists and in admirers.

Cheers to all the calligraphers and lovers of calligraphy out there keeping this treasured art form alive! ~ Monica Gordon

A Sentimental Journey

This antique tobacco tin belonged to my late Father, Ralph, who stored a few antique nibs in it. I remember when he opened it and introduced me to this beautiful art of calligraphy when I was a child, It immediately stole my heart when I watched him create a flourished letter "R". Look closely and you can see where he wrote "Copperplate" on the tin around 70 years ago! It is priceless to me as are the memories of he and I sitting together as I wrote my first messy attempts at calligraphy.

My writing style is lavish and flourished. I adore adding lush artistic swashes to my script. In our modern, fast-paced computer dominated world, I believe hand calligraphy lives on because most people still cherish something an artisan made slowly and intentionally with their hands. It is unique, sentimental and irreplaceable.

Engrosser's Script aka "Copperplate"

I specialize in Engrosser's Script, (commonly known as Copperplate), which is an elegant, shaded script with fine hairlines and graceful curves that is more akin to drawing than mere writing. It is derived from English Roundhand (the script style of the Declaration of Independence) and developed to emulate the elegant engravings by master engravers of the 1700s and 1800s. This script is very popular for wedding invitations and countless computer font variations have been made from this "mother" script.

Learn Copperplate!

Ornamental Spencerian

I also specialize in (and adore!) Spencerian Script which is a uniquely American script created by Platt Rogers Spencer circa 1840. Known for its dramatic capitals, elegant ovals and threadlike, delicately connected letters, it's a supremely elegant and airy; perfect for a wedding invitation that wants to mimic antique correspondence. I love to draw these classic letters in their simplest, minimal forms, as well as to lavishly flourish them to create a feast for the eyes!

Learn Spencerian!

Flourished Artwork - A FEW OF MY FAVORITES

This is my favorite piece because it has a huge sentimental value for me. I made it in one sitting, (listening to Ella Fitzgerald which of course helped!). The saying, "What isn't yet can still become", is one I've loved since I was a kid. My father spoke a little German and said it once, and I never forgot its simple yet powerful message. The image is lonely bird at the top, then an open book written and bookmarked to the halfway point, and the other half is blank...ready for a future of love.

Credentials

As a long-time member and former instructor with I.A.M.P.E.T.H. (International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers, and Teachers of Handwriting), I’ve had the privilege of studying one-on-one and in workshops with renowned calligraphers and Master Penmen from around the world. With over twenty years of professional experience, I’ve been honored to create original calligraphic works for a wide range of discerning clients—including celebrities, major universities, luxury brands, and national corporate campaigns. My work has also been featured in high-profile events, on-site activations, and in fine stationer collections for engraved and letterpress pieces.

Over the years, I’ve built a loyal and diverse clientele that includes elite event planners, high-end stationers, luxury brands, and public figures. I’m often recommended through word of mouth, and I take great pride in my reputation for delivering exceptional quality, professionalism, and reliability.

Discretion is an essential part of how I work with both individuals and brands. While some of my projects featuring recognizable names appear in my portfolio—with permission—I do not frequently post my work on social media. I'm always happy to work privately with clients who prefer to keep their events or custom pieces off public platforms. References are always available upon request.

I’m based in South Florida and available for travel, and I would love the opportunity to collaborate with you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions—I’m happy to help.