Grammar Lessons with Kate: How to Pluralize Last Names

by Kate Asbury Larkin

Since this is the time of year folks start painting door hangers and ordering Christmas cards, let’s get an early start on how to pluralize a last name.

It’s easy. Do NOT use an apostrophe.

When you make a door hanger or send/address a card, you aren’t claiming possession, you are just letting people know who it’s from. It’s from the Larkins or for a door hanger, you are announcing that the Larkins live in this house. It’s not necessary to let visitors know you own the house by adding the apostrophe, but whatever.

Below is an easy way to remember how to pluralize your last name. Use it.