Sketch different outlines of the plaque on blank sheets of paper to determine proper placement of the name. Write the name at the top, middle or bottom of the plaque. If using quotes, alternate the placement of the name with the quotes. For example, try placing the quote at the top of the plaque and center the person's name in the middle.
Open a blank word processing document. Type the name in the document, and experiment with different font sizes, colors and styles. Try features such as bold, italics or underline. Get ideas for borders or shading by browsing through page layout examples. Print samples of your work. Cut and paste your ideas onto the sketches.
Contact trophy shops or plaque dealers in your area via phone or email before visiting the shops. Request to send samples of your ideas via fax or email, and inquire about the possibility of adding pictures or personalized quotes. Comparison-shop by getting estimates of costs, preferably in writing, from at least two or three dealers. Ask if you will be charged per letter or up to a certain amount of letters, and request to see samples of the owner's work. Some dealers provide estimates over the phone or through email.
Visit the shop of your choice. Present your sketches and plaque to the store owner. Inquire about any additional discounts. Some retailers offer free shipping to the store if it requires shipment to an outside facility, or free engraving when purchasing items directly from the shop. Others offer savings for bulk orders.