Author: Jo Laver

  • Unique Host Gifts to Take to Every Christmas Party


    Unique Host Gifts to Take to Every Christmas Party Christmas party season is full of festive joy, mulled wine, and mince pies. But if you’re heading to a gathering this year, don’t forget a thoughtful gift for your host. Choosing a present that’s both meaningful and practical can make you stand out. It also shows…

  • Joining the Dunster Community: A Warm Welcome for Hall of Names


    Preparing to Open in Dunster We’re nearly there — and getting excited! Our new Hall of Names shop in Dunster is almost ready to open its doors. We couldn’t be more grateful for the welcome we’ve already received from the local community. We’ve met fellow shopkeepers and passers-by. And the friendly spirit of Dunster has…

  • Hall of Names Is Coming to Dunster โ€“ A Historic Setting for Surname Heritage


    A New Chapter in a Historic Village We’re excited to share some news from Hall of Names HQ. We’re opening a brand-new shop in the beautiful medieval village of Dunster! Known for its cobbled pavements, historic buildings and iconic castle, Dunster is a place steeped in the kind of heritage we’ve been celebrating for over…

  • Why a Simple Bookmark Makes the Most Meaningful Gift

    Categories: ,

    Why a Simple Bookmark Makes the Most Meaningful Gift When it comes to gift-giving, it’s often the simplest ideas that resonate most. A personalised bookmark gift might seem modest, but for many people, it becomes a lasting keepsake — especially when it reflects their family name and history. At Hall of Names, we’ve seen how…

  • What Are Heraldic Symbols?

    Categories: ,

    Heraldic symbols are essentially the visual language of family identity. Found on coats of arms, these symbols date back to medieval times, when knights, nobles, and later families used them to express values, allegiances, and achievements. From lions to crescents, and swords to stars, each image carried powerful meaning — and they still do today.…

  • How Surname Meanings Reveal Your Familyโ€™s Past


    What Does Your Surname Say About Your History? Surnames are more than just a means to identify ourselves. They often carry centuries of meaning, hinting at your family name’s origins, status, profession, or the places that people once called home. Understanding the meaning behind your surname can open a window into your ancestors’ lives and…

  • Celebrate Your Name in Style: Heraldic Drinkware for Every Occasion


    When it comes to celebrating heritage, few gifts strike the perfect balance between elegance and meaning quite like heraldic drinkware. And here at Hall of Names HQ, Wendy and the team have been working hard to bring you the best in gorgeous glassware and sparkling crystal. Whether you’re toasting a birthday, wedding, anniversary or retirement,…

  • Top 10 Personalised Gifts for Autumn 2025

    Categories: ,

    Personalised Gifts for Autumn 2025: Our Top 10 Picks Personalised gifts for autumn are the perfect way to mark seasonal celebrations, birthdays, or simply show someone you care. Here at Hall of Names in West Somerset, the changing leaves of the Quantock Hills are a daily reminder that autumn has arrived — and with it,…

  • Top 5 Personalised Family Name Accessories


    Top 5 Personalised Family Name Accessories Personalised family name accessories offer a creative way to blend personal style with family heritage. Whether you’re planning a meaningful gift or treating yourself to something special, these accessories make a lasting impression. Here in the Quantock Hills, the leaves are all starting to change colour, acorns are falling…

  • We Love Your Feedback: Real Reviews of Our Coat of Arms Gifts

    Categories: ,

    We Love Your Feedback: Real Reviews of Our Coat of Arms Gifts At Hall of Names, we’re privileged to create gifts that celebrate family history, heritage, and identity. We manufacture every coat of arms scroll, crystal glass, or handcrafted shield with care and pride. And it means the world when our customers take the time…

Select your currency