When it comes to giving, Wendell August Forge in Berlin has one of the most unique selections of gifts in all of Holmes County, offering everything from the most delicate and dainty to the very earthy and elegant in their complete line of personalized, hand-crafted metal designs created by Americas oldest and largest forge, producing hand-wrought ornamental metalware and giftware in aluminum and other metals since 1923.
As we wind our way into wedding season, Wendell August Forge makes gift-giving truly meaningful with a wealth of contemporary designs in not only traditional serving trays, but picture frames and albums, wine bottle holders and monogrammed bottle stoppers, and an ample selection of accent and serving dishes in styles to fit any home decor.
And to honor the beloved bridesmaids, Wendell August's catalog is rich with gorgeous gifts, like their unique hand-mirrors in patterns of dogwood, sunflower or twining vines. Or their monogrammed treasure boxes, into which the bride can tuck her own sweet surprise. With dozens of designs, their ever-popular coaster collections are both beautiful and affordable.
"Some think we're just serving bowls and serving trays," says store manager Melissa Kollar. "But we're so much more than that."
Kollar says many of their customers in search of locally-crafted items that can't be found in a chain-store registry.
"What we have here is different," Kollar says. "It's American-made and not put together on an assembly line."
Kollar points to the fine jewelry created by Wendell August's own team of designers. This year alone, six new collections are making their debut, from contemporary to traditional--pieces that incorporate elements of gold, sterling silver and pewter, something new this year. Wendell August's own designer Emily Hendrie will introduce lines including: Bali, with its vibrant colors and cascading beads; Limerick, in stylish tones of peridot green and onyx black; and Calypso, which will sweep you away with its sea-inspired cast-pewter shells, antique silver chains and creamy pearls.
And, now in bloom, Wendell August introduces Floriography, delicate necklaces and matching bracelets based on the Victorian-era philosophy that every flower has a meaning and emotion. These pieces feature a small floral charm--whether a daisy or rose, dogwood or sweet pea--and, on the back, the flower's name and attribute. They're affordable enough to choose one for yourself and one for a loved-one.
Looking to treat yourself? Step inside and take a look at not only the jewelry, candle holders and serving dishes, but the fun and funky purses to fit any occasion. Wendell August partnered with the Little Earth Company, who specializes in license-plate, sports-themed, and collegiate purses. Now, Wendell August has incorporated their own designs, from the light and whimsical to the extremely elegant, perfect for an evening out to dinner and the theater.
If you're in Berlin during the second Saturday of the month from 11 am - 4 pm., be sure to visit Wendell August Forge to witness a variety of local artisans creating their products on-site. Glass blowers, potters with hand-thrown pieces, rug weavers, and wool farmers who create felted tree-skirts, ornaments, purses and more will be on-hand to display their talents and offer their wares. And, of course, take a minute to step next to the world's largest Amish buggy to snap a souvenir picture to remember your visit.
Be sure to check Wendell August Forge's Facebook page for sales, promotions, special events, and exclusive offers. Visit their website at wendellaugust.com to see their complete line of products for any occasion.
Wendell August Forge
7007 County Road 672
Berlin, OH 44610
1-866-354-5192