It is our belief at Somerset Manor Designs that the entertaining traditions of the past are worth taking with us as we transition into the future. While invitations set the tone for the occasion, table accessories including place cards, menu cards, and napkin rings add a touch of sophistication. Along with these special occasion papers, we also have a line of charming note cards for personal correspondence, and wax-lined gift bags perfect for homemade goodies to give as hostess gifts. We've added gift tags and note pads to complete our line. We hope that our products will inspire you to entertain in a style that looks to the future but reflects the elegance of the past.
Somerset Manor Designs was officially established in the Fall of 2003. Prior to 2003, I had a small greeting card business. While the cards in that line were brightly colored and whimsical, I was personally drawn to more classically inspired images and wanted to serve a more sophisticated market. I started to design note card sets, using European designs from the 17th - 19th centuries, to give as party favors and hostess gifts. My guests loved them and so did a friend of mine who owned an exclusive linen and gift shop. I approached my friend to see if she would be interested in carrying my note cards and offered to design a collection of coordinating invitations, place cards and napkin rings for her shop. Then I placed my new merchandise in select stores in the Indianapolis area. It was on a trip to Atlanta, when I successfully sold my line to one of my favorite specialty gift shops, that I knew I had a product that would not only appeal to me, but to others who appreciate beautiful, European design.
In July 2005 Somerset Manor Designs participated in the Atlanta Gift Show. Inspired by my success there, my next step would be to exhibit at the National Stationery Show in New York, in May.
Sincerely,
Barbara Peck Blickman
Barbara Peck Blickman
