What the Font?: Serifs

Often one of the first steps when starting a new project with a client is figuring out what kind of type they prefer...or what kind of type is appropriate for their occasion. It's no surprise that I'm a strong believer that type can really set the tone for an event. So today, with the help of Wikipedia, I'll share a little lesson on Serif typefaces.

First, a few vocabulary words: A typeface is a set of one or more fonts, in one or more sizes, designed with stylistic unity, each comprising a coordinated set of glyphs. Times New Roman or Arial are examples of a typeface. A font designates a specific member of a type family such as roman, boldface, or italic type, while typeface designates a consistent visual appearance or style which can be a "family" or related set of fonts.

Serifs are semi-structural details on the ends of some of the strokes that make up letters and symbols. I like to call them feet. With invitations or announcements, serif typefaces express a more traditional, classic touch and they work well with script fonts. There are no rules, however. It's fun to find combinations of typefaces that work well together.

Here are a few examples of serif typefaces. If you can name them you get a prize.