A Day To Remember: Custom Ceramics for Life’s Celebrations

At Balsam & Co., I love working with clients to create custom pieces that hold a story, a reminder of a moment worth celebrating. Recently, I had the pleasure of collaborating on a custom serving bowl for a client’s friend’s one-year wedding anniversary. If you’ve ever wondered what the process is to commission a custom piece, let’s walk through it together!

The Inspiration

Every custom piece begins with a conversation. My client wanted to mark their friend’s anniversary with a bowl that could become a centrepiece in their home, filled with memories and love. We drew inspiration from the couple’s wedding day, incorporating flowers from their bouquet, and their wedding date.

Designing

Once we finalized the concept, I sketched out a few designs. We landed on a wide bowl, similar to one I made previously; perfect for serving, displaying fruit, or even holding keepsakes. The main design was a delicate floral in blues and green inspired by their wedding bouquet.

Crafting

With the design set, it was time to bring the vision to life. The bowl started as a lump of clay on the wheel. I carefully shaped it, keeping the desired size and proportions in mind. After the initial throwing, I trimmed and refined the form, ensuring a smooth finish. Once it dried, the bowl underwent its first firing in the kiln, transforming it into a sturdy bisque piece.

After the final glaze firing, the bowl emerged from the kiln with a glossy finish and vibrant colors. Seeing the design fully realized was such a rewarding moment! Before delivering the piece, I wrapped it carefully in sustainable packaging, complete with a handwritten note to add an extra layer of thoughtfulness.

The Final Piece ✨

Why Custom Ceramics?

Gifting custom ceramics is about more than just the object itself—it’s about celebrating relationships and milestones in a way that feels heartfelt and timeless. The bowl we created for this anniversary is not just a vessel; it’s a symbol of love, connection, and memories shared.

Let’s Create Together

If you have a special occasion or person in mind, I’d love to help you craft a piece that tells their story. Whether it’s a wedding anniversary, a birthday, or any milestone, together we can create something truly unique and meaningful.

Reach out to start the process—let’s turn your ideas into a day to remember.