That is why we have commissioned a brand new Dunster artwork, which will be arriving very soon.

Created especially for Hall of Names by artist Lucy Loveheart, this piece promises to capture the spirit of Dunster in a joyful and distinctive way. While the artwork is not yet in place, we are excited to share a preview of what is to come.

A celebration of Dunster and its landmarks

This new Dunster artwork will feature a stylised view of the village and its surroundings. It brings together many of Dunster’s most recognisable landmarks, including Dunster Castle, the Packhorse Bridge and the West Somerset Railway.

It also reflects the natural beauty of the area, from the rolling Exmoor hills to the coastline and surrounding landscape. Alongside these features, the artwork will highlight the independent shops and businesses that give Dunster its unique character.

Lucy Loveheart’s style is full of colour, movement and charm. Her work feels lively and uplifting, offering a fresh perspective on a place that so many people love to visit.

The piece also draws inspiration from the local landscape that inspired the hymn All Things Bright and Beautiful, adding another layer of meaning to the design.

Inspiring a new range of gifts

This Dunster artwork will not just be a single piece on display. It will form the inspiration for a brand new range of products, which we will be introducing in the coming months.

These items will sit alongside our existing collections, including our printed scrolls, crystal and glass gifts, and shields and plaques. As always, our products reflect heritage, storytelling and the earliest historically recorded coat of arms associated with a bearer of each surname.

This new direction allows us to offer something completely different. It gives visitors the chance to take home a unique memento of Dunster, inspired by a design that cannot be found anywhere else.

A growing connection with the Dunster community

Since opening our shop, we have enjoyed building strong connections within the Dunster community. This artwork reflects that relationship and brings together familiar places and shared experiences into one design.

We have worked closely with Lucy, sharing ideas and inspiration drawn from our shop, our customers and the village itself. As a result, the finished artwork promises to feel both personal and meaningful.

Watch this space

We are incredibly excited about what is coming next. The artwork will be arriving soon, and we cannot wait to share it with you.

We will be revealing the piece in the near future, along with the first products inspired by it. If you are interested in Dunster, local heritage or unique gifts, this is something to look out for.

Please keep an eye on our updates, follow along with our journey and share this with anyone who loves Dunster as much as we do.

Visit us in Dunster

If you are visiting Dunster, do come and see us. We would love to welcome you into our shop and share more about what we have planned.

The post A New Dunster Artwork Coming Soon to Our Shop appeared first on Hall of Names.

We’re delighted to say that our brand-new Hall of Names shop in Dunster is now open! After weeks of preparation, planning and community support, we’re finally welcoming visitors through the doors — and what a warm welcome it’s been.

Set in the heart of this historic medieval village, our new home offers customers the chance to browse our range of personalised gifts in person, explore their surname history, and see some of our most popular items up close.

A Warm Welcome from the Dunster Community

From fellow shopkeepers to curious passers-by, we’ve already had the pleasure of meeting many lovely people. Local businesses have been especially welcoming, and it’s clear that Dunster has a wonderful sense of community.

Although we still have a few finishing touches to add, the shelves are stocked, the signage is up, and the counter is ready (expertly made by Wendy’s dad, no less!). We’ve even had help from the brilliant team at the Dunster parish magazine, who kindly distributed our postcards across the village.

What You’ll Find in Store

Visitors to the Dunster shop can explore a wide selection of personalised heritage gifts, including:

• Coat of arms scrolls and surname history prints
• Engraved glassware, from whisky tumblers to champagne flutes
• Shields and plaques featuring the earliest coat of arms for your surname
• Mugs, bookmarks, candles and cushions with a personal touch

Each piece is carefully crafted and linked to our database of over a million surnames, ensuring authenticity and historical accuracy. These aren’t just gifts — they’re a connection to your past.

Celebrating Local Links

We’re committed to supporting local where we can. Our new shop signage was created by the talented team at Somerset Sign and Print Co., and we’ve long championed local causes like the Williton Rockets Football Club, who proudly wear the Hall of Names name on their shirts.

Now based in Dunster, we’re excited to build even more connections with the people and businesses that make this area special.

Come and Visit Us in Dunster

If you’re in or around West Somerset, do drop by. Whether you’re looking for a Christmas gift, a family keepsake, or just curious about your surname history, we’d love to see you.

We’re located at the far end next to the traffic lights, right on the Dunster High Street. A beautiful place to explore with plenty of other shops and local treasures to discover.

The post Hall of Names Shop Now Open in Dunster appeared first on Hall of Names.

These are the gifts that spark stories, connect generations and bring a little heritage to the celebration.

Celebrate with the Earliest Recorded Coat of Arms

Every surname has a story, and our range of gifts features the earliest coat of arms historically associated with each name.

From engraved crystal tumblers to personalised bookmarks, every item is designed to reflect that deep-rooted connection to the past.

Explore our prints and scrolls for a rich, visual history of your surname — perfect for displaying in the home. Traditionally, this is our most popular gift.

Gifts That Bring Generations Together

A family tree is more than names on a page. It’s about shared heritage, passed from one generation to the next. And our surname-related gifts are perfectly aligned to complement your family research and ancestry.

Our shields and plaques make striking centrepieces that often become talking points at family gatherings. Meanwhile, personalised glassware allows everyone to toast with pride.

These aren’t just gifts — they’re heirlooms in the making. Plus no two gifts are the same!

Thoughtful Ideas for Every Budget

Not all meaningful gifts need to be grand. Our homeware range includes cushions, bottle stoppers, coasters and more — each engraved or printed with a coat of arms linked to your surname.

Perfect as stocking fillers or table gifts, they add a personal touch without breaking the bank.

Personalisation That Feels Truly Unique

Every item we make is crafted with care and can include custom messages, dates, or milestones. So whether you’re celebrating a family reunion or remembering a loved one, your gift can definitely reflect the occasion.

Each print order comes professionally finished and packaged, ready to delight on Christmas morning. And our other gifts are created by trusted UK partners using our unique artworks.

Visit Us in Dunster This Christmas

We’re proud to now have a home in the beautiful village of Dunster! If you’re visiting this festive season, why not pop in and say hello? We’d love to help you choose the perfect family name gift in person.

The post Family Name Gifts That Bring Everyone Together This Christmas appeared first on Hall of Names.

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 appreciation for all the effort they’ve made. Whether you’re visiting friends, family, or colleagues, here are some perfect ideas to take along.

Personalised Glassware Makes a Toast More Memorable

A set of engraved crystal wine glasses or a whisky tumbler makes a timeless gift. Our crystal and glass collection features each recipient’s earliest recorded coat of arms, making it extra special.

Choose from champagne flutes, pint tankards, or stemless wine glasses. Each one is professionally engraved and beautifully boxed.

Add a Touch of Heritage to Their Home

For hosts who love tradition, our homeware range brings their surname history to life. From coat of arms cushions to candles and bookmarks, there’s something for every space.

These pieces are conversation starters as well as keepsakes. They’re perfect for display in a kitchen, hallway or study.

Small Tokens That Leave a Big Impression

If you’re looking for something compact but personal, a bottle stopper engraved with the coat of arms is a great option. It’s useful, meaningful, and easy to pop into a gift bag.

Our gift ideas category includes items like bookmarks, keyrings, and coasters. All are crafted with care and carry the heritage of the surname.

A Thoughtful Alternative to Wine or Flowers

While a bottle of wine is always welcome, a personalised item feels more lasting. It shows extra thought and effort without being overly extravagant.

Many customers tell us their hosts have been genuinely moved by a gift that reflects their family name and story.

Think Ahead for Handcrafted Orders

Some of our most popular items — like our hand-painted shields — have a longer lead time. If you’re attending a party closer to Christmas, be sure to order at least four weeks in advance.

Looking for inspiration? You can browse all gift ideas here and find the perfect match for your next gathering.

Visit Us in Dunster!

Why not pop in and browse in person? You’ll find us in the historic village of Dunster, where our friendly team is ready to help you find the ideal personalised gift. Prints are available to take home on the day, and other gifts are delivered to your chosen destination swiftly. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, we’d love to welcome you.

The post Unique Host Gifts to Take to Every Christmas Party appeared first on Hall of Names.