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Words with Boards

Meet the Makers Kim Strassner and Mike Pararas, designers and owners of the Words With Boards shop and studio in the eclectic neighborhood of Hampden in Baltimore. In 2013 they launched their company with the intent to create thoughtful and functional gifts for family and friends.
Kim Strassner, founder of Words with Boards
The word spread and by 2015 their maple, walnut and cherry wood custom cutting boards, charcuterie boards and lazy Susan designs were a finalist in the Martha Stewart AMERICAN MADE design contest and landed them on Oprah’s iconic Favorite Things list.

Kim’s background in sales, marketing and product development blends nicely with Mike’s work in creative and graphic design. When they finally decided to create something special out of the basement of their 1850s row-house, it was to redefine the art of thoughtful gift giving! They started with a few tools, but now work out of a fully equipped wood shop and design studio where they specialize in handcrafted one-of-a-kind heirloom gifts. Perfect for The Dowry!

Setting their intention to mix functional houseware with specific and personal details they work hard to produce daily-use boards that tell a story and add style to every kitchen and bar. American Made is important to the entrepreneurs as is giving back to the planet and their community. They only use sustainably forested maple, cherry, and walnut for their boards and plant a tree for every piece sold. They also support local causes with silent auction donations in their community.

If you’re looking for a special gift for a newly engaged couple, or you want to commemorate a new home, special date or event, Words With Boards is a great place to start at The Dowry. Check out their collection below.

Welcome to Words with Boards!

"The greats have achieved it by starting small.” - Mungara Tarou Krishnamurt

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