Nona-Nona’s 100th birthday
Every once in awhile, we get the opportunity to do something a little out of the ordinary. Although we take pride in every order we produce, there are instances when the human connection is definitely stronger. Here’s an example: This spring, Pete Salpietra called us because his grandmother was soon to be celebrating her 100th birthday. He wanted something to commemorate the occasion that each attendee could take with them and keep forever. (more…)
Making handmade stoneware mugs by hand is just what we do. My family has been at this for almost 40 years, our anniversary is coming up in 2012, and each mug that we make has a story. Every custom stoneware mug that we create is done so for a customer, innkeepers for their bed and breakfasts, banks, insulation companies, or even National Parks like Valley Forge.
The style of the mug that we are focused on today is our latest and greatest called the patriot. This 12 oz. mug was designed by our potter Wade, who has been throwing pots here for coming up on 15 years. He is also fast becoming our glaze chemist, and we will have some new matte finishes very soon thanks to him. Anyway, back to the story, the Patriot mug! This mug was named on in honor of Independence Day with help from a close knit group of our fans on Facebook.
Lately there has been much talk about how so many of our national parks and museum stores do not have gifts that are made in the USA. Diane Sawyer from ABC news has a summer series entitled ‘Made in America’ which highlights this issue. From ABC news, “in the global trade battle, you cast a vote every time you open your wallet. The decision? Whether you spend your money on products made in America or overseas.” A big shift has taken place, in 1960 Americans only purchased 8% of foreign goods, compared with 60% today.
Since we are one of the few manufacturers still producing 100% American Made Mugs we stand behind this and also pledge to vote with our wallets. Through innovation, pride, and passion we strive to produce the best stoneware mugs that we can everyday! Here is our latest and greatest new mug style called the Patriot – Aptly named for the approaching celebration of Independence Day.
Continuing on the topic of ‘mug collecting’ is at the center story of today’s blog… This one is a good one about the custom handmade mugs that we proudly create!
When it comes to the subject of creating custom hand-thrown mugs, we consider ourselves the best. From the consistency of our glazes, the functionality of our forms, and the crisp detail of our medallions to their tried and tested durability, we continue to lead the way! But, for a better understanding of how the mugs are best utilized, we rely on our brilliant customers to lead the way. Here is a list that brings in ideas from far and wide and is simplified into five easy points. Most of these ideas come from innkeepers or restaurateurs who order and reorder most frequently.
It has been said that if you want to know how good a mug is, YOU HAVE TO DRINK FROM IT! People fall in love with our mugs when they use them, and once they are in love, they’ll want to take them home!
Here are 4 easy points:
1). The mugs are made by Deneen Pottery, a family business since 1972.
2.) Each mug is individually hand-thrown on a potter’s wheel.
3.) All materials are lead and cadmium free.
4.) The mugs are microwave, dishwasher, oven and freezer safe.
You don’t need a gift shop to do this. A simple pyramid or a couple mugs with the stand-up card that we provide in your shipment will do. By allocating a space for the mugs to be seen, people will then know that they are for sale.
Worried that they’ll grow legs? Not if you put a well-worded sign like this one with them. Feel free to use it as it is or change up the text to make it your own.
Don’t be afraid to give away a mug or two. Of course we know you paid for them, but just think of the return you could receive when someone asks where the mug came from… We hear stories all the time about travelers who plan their trips according to which Bed & Breakfasts carry our mugs. Consider it the most affordable form of advertising that you can buy. You’ll never know whose hands the mugs will end up in, it could be your next loyal guest!
Thank you for reading our blog!
Niles Deneen – CEO
Deneen Pottery
