When I decided on my grandma name 8 years ago; Grandma (I know-not real exciting), I really didn't give it much thought (in fact, I didn't give it any thought at all). Grandma seemed logical. I felt comfortable with it, my Grandmas were "Grandma" and renaming myself something else felt complicated to me.

In reality, it must not be all that complicated to name yourself considering the popularity of Grandma names. And the list just keeps growing as does the creativity in each name. 

I'm still happy with my choice but I will admit, some of the Grandma names would be fun to hear.  As it turns out, sometimes you get a "Grandma Name" anyway. My name was Gaga to my third grandchild and it melted my heart every time I heard it. "Come on GAGA!  Let's play!!" Who could resist such a request? I was kinda sad when she started calling me Grandma, but in a world where there are often an abundance of doting Grandmothers per kid, getting to be called anything so endearingly is a privilege I cherish and will happily answer to.

Because we make "Grandma Boards" (a charcuterie board with a beautiful sentiment addressed to Grandma), I think about Grandma names a whole lot more than I used to.  We sell most of our Grandma boards at art shows and they are quite popular. The first year we made Grandma boards, many people asked about Nana boards. The second year we made Grandma and Nana boards and we were asked if we had Oma boards. On the third year we made, Grandma, Nana, Oma and decided to throw in Gigi for good measure. Sure enough, we weren't too far into our first day when someone asked for a Mimi board!! Now Mimi isn't new but it was the first time it had been requested to us and it really says how very serious the Grandma name is. Needless to say, we can't have them all available at our shows. It would be kinda heavy!! 

It warms my heart that people truly care about their Grandmas, Nanas, Omas, Gigis, and Mimis...... and thoughtfully want to express how much they are loved and appreciated. These days when I think about all the Grandma names, it warms my heart to know how many people out there just want to find a way to say, "you are our world". 

Below is a list of 30 Grandma names. 

The Modern Classics

• Nana – The reigning champion in the U.S. and UK.
• Mimi – Very popular in the South; feels chic and youthful.
• Gigi – A trendy favorite for "cool" or younger grandmothers.
• Grammy – A cozy, affectionate alternative to Grandma.
• Gram – Simple, laid-back, and very popular in the Midwest.

Cultural Favorites

• Nonna – Italian for grandmother; carries a warm, "kitchen-is-always-open" feel.
• Oma – German/Dutch; short, punchy, and very popular globally.
• Abuela (or Abbi/Lita) – Spanish; often used by Hispanic families or those with Spanish roots.
• Yaya – Greek; a fun, energetic name that is easy for kids to shout.
• Lola – Filipino; a beautiful name that represents wisdom and kindness.

Southern and Traditional

• Mamaw – A staple in the Southern and Midwestern U.S.
• MeeMaw – Often paired with "PeePaw" for grandfathers.
• Granny – A classic that has seen a "vintage-cool" comeback recently.
• Gran - Short, sophisticated, and very common in British culture.
•  Marmee – Inspired by Little Women, perfect for a nurturing matriarch.

For the Grandma who wants something different.

• Glamma – Short for "Glamorous Grandma."
• Lovey – Famously used by Kris Jenner; emphasizes affection. Honey – A sweet, Southern-inspired term of endearment.
• Coco – Fun, stylish, and easy for a grandchild to repeat.
• Lolly – Often paired with a grandfather named "Pop" (to make "Lollipop").