Elevate Your Epic Event Experience

The seats are filled with close friends and loved ones sharing memories of a vibrant career and a legacy of contributions. Stories of lifelong relationships and funny moments circulate around the table. These are your lasting memories as an honored guest at a Hall of Fame occasion.

When you’re planning a milestone event, your goal is to craft an experience guests will deem unforgettable. Distinct details and attention to subtle points keep the attendees reminiscing about this special evening.

For these memorable occasions, we support your vision of excellence by focusing on three aspects of unique artisan gifts: planning, personalization, and presentation.

Here, we share an example of these elements at work for a recent Hall of Fame recognition.

Planning:
Avoiding the scramble to find the perfect gift means allowing time for valuable discussions, learning about your special guests, and exploring artisan options. It’s a relaxed and creative process that delivers the best results with thoughtful intention. This client began our discussion four months in advance, allowing time to imagine how they wanted the experience to feel and who the honored individuals were as colleagues and friends. This level of planning translates into a beautiful celebration of accomplishments enhanced by meaningful gifts.

Personalization:
A custom gift that speaks to an individual’s passions is accomplished in different ways. For this occasion, a meaningful mantra was transformed into an elegant engraving. The particular phrase, Agape Love Time (unconditional love), elevates the gift box and leaves a lasting impression. (This is another reason why advance planning is key.) Read more timeless engraving ideas here.

Gaining insight into your gift recipients allows us to select individualized elements. In this case, a custom coffee flavor and unique packaging, along with festive wrapping paper that acknowledges a commitment to community, is paired with the artisan pieces. A genuine note, also designed by an artist, is a treasured addition.

Presentation:
Giving your gifts in a handcrafted gift box turns the presentation into a work of art. Not only are the elements inside the gift box meaningful, but gift recipients have a custom, engraved, wood box for their home (Read home display ideas here). A premium gift box is a gift they’ll enjoy well beyond one evening.

We’re fortunate to have a gift moment captured on video: Watch this short Instagram reel of a Hall of Fame recipient surprised by one of our custom gift boxes. Our favorite part is that the gift-giver's passion for the gift box is appreciated not only by this individual but also by others who turn to see the exchange.

We love seeing these kinds of memorable gift-giving experiences for you.

Next time you lead the event details for a milestone occasion, consider your planning, personalization, and presentation as you create your unforgettable evening. We invite you to connect with us using the form on our Custom page.

Embracing New Artisan Trends

You’re a unique creature living and lounging with an intentional personal style. Artisan companies understand this. Whether your vibe is subtle and spiritual, nature-based, bold, or one of refined elegance, business owners like us get it.

This week, we walked the floors of an industry trade show to see and share a glimpse of notable trends that support all things distinct and delightful. Luxurious textiles, rich scents, lush, all-natural cosmetics, colorful patterns, and artful craftsmanship are just a few of the options:

Designs from women-owned franca NYC

Eye-catching designs in an array of colors are painted on ceramic pots and vases. Plants continue to capture the limelight nestled in chic, fashionable pots that accent a space. For those who prefer a muted pallet, don’t worry; you’ll find earthy hues as well. With the full spectrum of designs available, there’s an artisan style sure to capture your discerning taste.

Ignite your journey. Candles expand into a full experience, offering an elusive escape with the flicker of a scented flame. This relaxation tool is not just a pleasing aroma; it amplifies your style with fashionable graphics and packaging alongside unique fragrance combinations. Muted greens mimicking wood textures inspire calm, while other tapers are wildly colorful and ready to party.

Matches. We wrote about matches earlier here, and the pattern continues as the new hot (pardon the pun) accessory. Unique colors, bigger sizes, shapes, and specific messaging, are all ready to strike when the time is right.

Elegance, casual comfort, and silky styles abound. Textiles are covered in bold prints with sassy trims cut into distinct sizes. Cashmere bandanas, handmade mini wool scarves (that feel fabulous) accent your wardrobe with warmth or a pop of color.

All aboard with lush eco-travel products. Simple, sophisticated packaging and all-natural products tout higher quality and better care of the earth. These beautifully condensed multi-purpose products attempt to reduce the size of our toiletry bags with award-winning creams, shampoos, body lotions, and cleansing products - all in one lathering bar.

It was especially exciting to see the women-owned businesses bring their passions to market with inked collaborations, diverse leadership, and bold moves in the works.

Top left to bottom right: Pilgrimwaters textiles, Lohn candles, DMC Home Decor, Tenn Prairie matches, Fossette cosmetics, Pinkstories tapers.

Holiday Happenings

Last updated: 12/11/23

We’ll continue to update this page throughout the holiday season… here’s the latest:

Special Shipping Note - Orders placed now will begin shipping in January!

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Jack Frost brings more than a nip in the air as we unwrap a festive season that extends beyond our talented artisan network. Connection and community are the themes infused into our Holiday Happenings to create the most merry and meaningful season with your artisan gifts. Today, we share fresh new designs and pairings for the holiday.

luxe edition serving boards in two exquisite styles.

1. Your Free Guide to Gift-Giving - Wondering where to start or what to do for unforgettable gifts? Get our free guide: Luxurious & Lasting, 10 unforgettable gift-giving ideas.

2. You’ll Swoon Over These Serving Boards. New luxe serving boards are here! Whether you want more panache for your holiday parties, a unique business gift, or an exceptional wedding or new home gift, these special edition serving boards make an exquisite gift.

3. An Old Travel Favorite Touts a New Design. A unique playlist inspired by each National Park, colorful new designs, and fresh scents representing your Park destination are all part of this new travel accessory. The age-old auto air freshener got a fabulous design upgrade. The custom-designed packs come with two individually wrapped freshener tags to hang. One scented tag has a QR code to access a recommended playlist as well as suggestions for hikes and trails close to the destination. You’ll find this fun, new addition in our Glorious Getaway Gift Box.

4. Philanthropy Through Art - For our gift wrapping, we’ve selected Giftiply, a company that supports artistry, philanthropy, and sustainability. Their mission is philanthropy through art. (We love that idea!) With any artisan order through December 15th, we’ll include a holiday accent wrap using their seasonal paper. Giftiply offers a variety of unique paper wraps designed by artists in support of different non-profits. “Matching Sweaters” (see photos below) supports blood donor matches for cancer patients, and “Snowflakes for Love” supports suicide prevention. These are the two paper designs we selected this season.

5. Java on the Journey – Friends and colleagues traveling this holiday will appreciate a freshly brewed cup of coffee on their trip. This artisan coffee gift box invites them to relish the road trip. Find tasty travel packs of Dark Star coffee tucked inside our Brimming with Bold Gift Box. Little Amps Coffee Roasters in Harrisburg, PA, makes each flavorful packet of instant coffee.

Top L to R: Giftiply “Matching Sweaters” wrap, new luxe serving boards. Bottom L to R: Brimming with Bold Gift Box, new travel air fresheners featuring the National Parks, and Glorious Getaway Gift Box.

Artfully Elegant Notes

A faded, scribbled message on a post-it, funny cards, wonderful thank-yous and inspiring notes from friends and family. These are examples of what you’ll find clipped to the board in our studio. We hear stories like this from many of you who share our appreciation of the personal touch. The art of gifting is elevated with a few kind words. This sentiment is why we include a complementary artisan-designed card with each gift experience.

Once you select your unique gift, choose a note card to artfully acknowledge those who welcome you into their home, encourage you, or are celebrating a milestone event. Boost their spirits with a favorite story or send an uplifting thought. You provide the text, and we’ll do the rest.

Like the artisan gifts we make, your heartfelt message can leave a lasting impression.

(Use the arrows below to view more.)

Choosing Unique Gifts for Remarkable Hosts

Updated June 2, 2024

What makes a getaway memorable are the host details infused into a weekend. The aroma of fresh coffee when you wake up in the mornings, sliced fruits and treats appearing between trail walks and afternoon explorations. Every serving feels simple yet luxurious. These extraordinary hosts make it look easy; however, we know it takes thoughtful planning and an eye for specifics. When it comes time to show your host genuine appreciation, here are a few distinct and delightful gift ideas.

You may be up with the sun and outside exploring during your weekend excursion, with meals and delicious samples enjoyed early and often. If your host is the champion of refreshments and vibrant cocktails, give them a trio of personal-sized serving boards to accent their culinary craft. Mini artisan boards are perfect for slicing fresh fruits for breakfast, veggies in the afternoon, at the bar for cutting limes and lemons, and as self-serve boards out on the porch and patio.

How sweet is it to wake to a fresh perk of coffee or the aroma of oven-baked scones? For those who create a cheerful start, return the favor with a boost for their coffee breaks. Handcrafted in natural wood, artisan coasters make an easy and elegant addition to their morning routine.

Friends who keep the door open for us to laugh and listen are true treasures. These hosts create inviting and comfortable spaces as we unwind from business and the family’s needs. Handcrafted doorstops are a unique way to tip your hat to the host whose door is always open for you. (Please contact us via our Custom form to inquire.)

After a summer of welcoming guests, your favorite host may appreciate a few quiet afternoons relaxing on the window seat or taking in the view. Inspire them with a premium gift box crafted from luxurious natural wood. This deluxe gift makes the perfect serving tray in a cozy corner or for breakfast in bed. Send your host a wonderful reminder to indulge in themselves.

Tantalizing Tastes of Summer

Warm weather brings a bounty of fresh fruits, exotic flavors, and refreshing beverages. Exploring new serving styles and experimenting with flavors is the kind of artistic expression that inspires us this season. From mocktail stations to gourmet dessert boards, mix and match these festive ideas for new ways to sip and share at your next summer soiree.

Artisanal Beverage Boards:
Instead of the traditional charcuterie serving board, create a luxurious beverage board. Arrange an assortment of artisanal syrups, flavored salts for glass rims, citrus twists, gourmet garnishes, and even small chocolates or macarons that pair well with the beverages. It adds a visually appealing and indulgent experience for friends and guests to sample.

S’mores Sophistication:
Elevate the classic s'mores experience by offering a variety of gourmet ingredients. Include flavored marshmallows like salted caramel, churro, or toasted coconut, different types of chocolate such as Wilbur buds or white chocolate, and add-ons like sliced strawberries, caramel sauce, or nut butter. Create a self-serve s'mores bar with a variety of toppings and fillings. Peanut butter cups, sliced bananas, crushed peppermints, or sprinkles make delicious and colorful additions. Invite your guests to get creative and enjoy customizing their unique combinations.

Mocktail Serving Station:
When you need a splash of afternoon hydration, transform a handcrafted gift box or serving board into a unique mocktail station. Include a variety of premium non-alcoholic spirits, like Hella Bitters & Soda spritz, sparkling waters, Little Saints plant-based mimosas, or Athletic’s alcohol-free beer. Skip the measuring and add Herb and Lou’s frozen infused cubes to your choice of spirit or seltzer. Complete the celebration station with lemons, limes, and oranges in textured ceramic bowls: specialty drinkware and a book of creative recipes make cheerful additions. A mobile, artisan serving station makes it easy to carry refreshments inside or out, and it’s a unique way for friends to enjoy a tasty beverage experience - with or without alcohol.

Whether you’re roasting, toasting, or coasting, enjoy a new twist on traditional summer favorites. (Shop our handcrafted serving boards here.)

Refresh & Refill: Stylish, Sustainable Gifts

The effort to blend style and sustainability is a journey. We know that you value the impact of giving beautiful, unique gifts, and, at the same time, you expect eco-friendly qualities. Where does a sustainable effort show up in our gifts and product design? Here’s a look at what environmentally friendly means behind-the-scenes, and the commitment it takes to deliver a stylish and sustainable gift experience.

There are two parts to an environmentally-friendly effort, the material of the gift itself and the packaging and shipping. The gift aspect is a more straightforward part of the process because we work in an artisan industry. Hand-picked wood, hand-woven materials, and artisan-made elements attract makers who want their pieces to be earth-friendly and enjoyed for generations. (We’ve learned a lot of good tips from artists.) Our original gift box fill was replaced with recycled paper years ago, which was an important step. Turns out it was just the tip of the iceberg. These days, we extend our eco-friendly preferences to how other partners and vendors package their goods. We’ve come a long way, and there’s more work to be done.

Eco-friendly should be tastefully designed. While technology and sustainable processes have improved, we still find great products that aren’t paired with attractive, sustainable packaging. This lackluster appearance doesn’t work inside a luxury gift box. Last year, we finally found gift wrapping in colorful recycled options (not just brown). It’s taken time for the industry to catch up to the design piece.

Effective and affordable wrap is essential. Our number one goal, and non-negotiable, remains that gifts arrive in beautiful condition. Corners and cups must be protected as we plan for boxes to be dropped or handled with less care in shipping than we prefer. We’ve improved our wrap and packaging materials and are transitioning to plant-based peanuts. And we finally found sustainable packing tape that sticks and fits our brand’s look and feel.

If you’re wondering if shipping is a real cost, this is your answer. This effort isn’t “free.” Packaging and handling preparation takes time, costs more, and requires quality products.

A reminder that your voice matters. The more you request sustainable, eco-friendly options, the more alternatives, better pricing, and stylish designs will be available to all of us.

Friend (Gift) Favorites for the Open House

Updated 1.4.24

Remember that feeling when you first opened the door to your new place? Ah, the possibilities. Clean, open spaces, a blank slate to unleash the imagination. For some, it’s a bit daunting; for others, inspiring with design and décor is an exciting opportunity.

An open house invitation is your chance to give a unique piece to celebrate a new living space. How do you find that distinct piece they’ll love, one they don’t already have but wish they did? What would add warmth to their home or spice up a room? Your gift can be the one that inspires calm, elevates entertaining, or highlights their beautiful kitchen.

These artisan gift options are sure to be favorites at the Open House, placing you at the top of the list for their next celebration:

Natural artisan stands.
Thriving plants in cheerful pots are a welcome addition to living spaces. With or without a green thumb, people appreciate the color and calming effect of plants. What can you add to accent their beautiful blooms? Give their greens a place to shine atop an artisan stand handcrafted out of black walnut, white maple, and red oak wood. A stunning partner to lush greenery, an artisan stand is a gorgeous new home gift.

A cut above for the culinary kitchen.
Look for a unique slicing knife with a distinct handle design made of wood, stone, or forged metal. Add a handwoven towel in a beautiful pattern. Select a gift that’s as much an art piece as a functional tool.

Customization they’ll appreciate.
People love to receive thoughtful gifts designed solely with them in mind. Their name, an initial, or a special date engraved into the piece sends a genuine message of caring. Choose to engrave walnut wood coasters, a handcrafted cutting board, or a custom gift box as a warm welcome. These are the treasures that remain in families for years to come.

Textures and tastes.
Whether the homeowners are coffee drinkers, wine enthusiasts, or bourbon aficionados, a set of cups with a custom glaze or a distinct texture lets them celebrate their new space in elevated style. Textures are unique to the touch, invite you to look closer, and are a perfect excuse to ask for a refill.

Entertaining with ease.
With boxes to unpack and schedules to re-organize, moving encourages simple decisions around food and beverage. As new residents, they’re busy choosing color combinations, sorting, and directing furniture deliveries. And this is all happening between work and even kid’s schedules. The gift of a handcrafted cutting board offers an easy way to serve appetizers at happy hour and share snacks on game night - it also makes a gorgeous statement in the kitchen or on the patio.

Festive Fizz or Sip and Soothe

Aside from our pizza-making endeavors, we like to explore beverages. The new powders, mixes, tonics, and spritzes make this a sipping season to celebrate.

The quality and quantity of tasty spirits coming into the market (including non-alcoholic) means it’s an excellent time to peer into your cabinet or open the bar to evaluate and expand your selection. There’s a drink for everyone with aperitifs to savor and soothe and spirits to energize or mellow your mood. For those who love to shine, edible glitter bombs are your ticket to a neon spritz. The upgrade in beverage packaging, combined with the myriad of choices, means you’ve got options to punch up a traditional tonic and mix a fabulous fizz. Libations are the new liquid accessory.

We’re excited to take a trial run of these spirits and sparkling powders in the coming weeks. If you’re also in the mood to mix it up, tag us and let us know what you think. We’ll do the same on our social media channels. If you have your favorites, we’d love to hear about those.

Two non-alcoholic:

Ghia - We’ve read about this beverage in multiple places and look forward to taste-testing, especially the ginger flavor. Ghia comes in a canned spritz to enjoy chilled or mixed with tonic or soda water. It’s also available as a bottled aperitif. The plant-based refresher is made with fruits and roots to keep you calm and connected.

Kin Euphoria - This high-vibe, low sugar beverage has a zen-like marketing appeal; from energy boosting to sleep-inducing, there are different choices for your mood or mindset. The High Rhode’s social magic is meant to be a mixer with juices or soda, an energy boost for the afternoon errands or the holiday socials. If reducing stress and quieting your mind is the goal, Dream Light may be the Kin choice for you, with its mushrooms and melatonin to mellow your mood. (Side note: For the fashion-forward among us, Bella Hadid is a Co-founder.) One last tip, Kin’s FAQ page is helpful if you’re not sure what to select.

A Festive Fizz:

Cotton candy has come a long way from the days of county fairs. With the launch of Art of Sucre, this sweet treat has spun its way into sparkling drinks with Glitter Bombs that transform a glass of bubbly into a party delight. You’ll find flavors that sound like a good time they promote, from Mimosa to Metallic and Rainbow. These colorful sweets dissolve into your glass to instantly create a party atmosphere.

Glitter and Shimmer:

What once began as a colorful topping for cakes and cookies has now expanded into a sparkling drink mix by Fancy Sprinkles. Like a sprinkle of fairy dust, edible glitter packets dissolve into your glass to create liquid bling. Pick from Opulust Edible Glitter, Pretty Young Thing, or any number of bright jewel tones to match your party theme.

One for Your Radar:

Salt Point Beverage is the gold winner of the 2022 International Spirits Competition. This Northern California crew makes canned cocktails touting all-natural ingredients, with varieties including Moscow Mule, a Gin Highball, and the cranberry lime, Cape Cod. The Greyhound’s grapefruit soda and vodka sound like a festive option too. Aside from the award-winning taste reviews, what caught our eye is the Salt Point can illustrations with an outdoor, rugged appeal. We think the explorer vibe will resonate with many of you. All good news. Now for the bad news, this option is not yet widely available. Those on the west coast will have to sip and share with us. (Their team did reply to my inquiry that they’re in expansion mode.)

Whether your spirit of choice sparkles and shines or is mellow and muted, you can make merry with the swirl of a spoon.

Sip and Share. As you surprise friends with these unique beverage finds, pair your favorite mixes, mocktails, or spirits with the artisan cups and textures found in our handcrafted gift boxes. As distinct as the spirits you serve, this combination will ensure an elevated drink experience.

Your Guide to Holiday Gift Ordering

The arrival of crisp air swirling outside the studio means seasonal celebrations are on the horizon. How can it possibly be time, you ask? (I know, our bathing suits are barely dry.) You’re busy living your best life, so we want to make it easy for you to give your best gifts.

As fans of giving unique artisan gifts and seeing the impression they make, you know ordering ahead wins the day (and the gift recipients). Whether for holiday weddings, a warm welcome, or a heartfelt thank you, select your gifts and secure a ship date that delivers big smiles on the other end.

Need some inspiration? Here are two blog favorites that can help:

Are Your Client Gifts Saying What You Think? - Do you want to know more about our custom craftsmanship?

Simple Steps to Sending your Best Client Gifts - Need ideas and options around what to give?

Keep this Gift Guide bookmarked as you (and your team) plan ahead. You’ll be glad you did, and so will your clients, colleagues, and friends.

1. Craftsmanship means attention to detail. The beauty of artisan gifts is that no two are the same. Even if the gift box or cutting board style is the same, each one is unique. Our wood is hand-picked and hand-finished, and the artisan pieces are handcrafted and hand-woven. These details take planning, skill, and time; the result is a distinctive, one-of-a-kind gift.

2. Festive and flexible gift cards. Each gift includes the option to select an artist-designed gift card (no additional charge). Pick our unique “Joy” card to add your holiday message, or choose one of our colorful artisan-designed cards to add your seasonal message. If your order is not for a holiday, select a card at checkout and add the appropriate personal note or well wishes.

3. Select now, ship later: Use our “Request a Due Date” section at checkout to indicate your preferred shipping timeframe. Don’t delay and risk missing the chance to send your favorite artisan gifts. Booking in advance means you select and pay for your gifts now and secure the time and inventory while available. If you request a specific week on your order, we’ll confirm your status via email.

4. Skip the last-minute scrambling. Avoid late shipping charges and make sure your gifts arrive on time. December 8th is the deadline for Fed Ex ground economy shipping. (This means we need to have your unique gifts on our schedule in October or November.)

5. “What else should we know?” This is the catch-all section of checkout, where you can tell us anything else that will help us create a memorable gift experience.

Our goal is to give you all the information you need in advance to help you plan, select and secure the artisan gifts you want, so we can all raise a glass to a relaxing holiday season.