Kevin’s Visits Spode: A Celebration of Heritage and Partnership
At Kevin’s, we and our customers share a love for Spode Woodland. From spring and fall gatherings to holiday celebrations, we love showcasing it in tablescapes with fabulous floral arrangements and thoughtful attention to every detail. It’s also a favorite in our bridal registries, helping couples begin their own traditions of gathering around a beautiful table. Just as meaningful is the support we’ve received from Spode and the partnership we’ve built, a reminder that even in today’s global world, personal relationships between businesses and their vendors matter. Our recent trip to England brought that connection to life.
Kathleen Kelly and Rebecca Williams joined Michael Close, President of Spode North America, and Spode’s top sales representatives for a trip Kevin’s earned as the brand’s number one independent account in the United States.
Our London visit began with tours of Churchill’s War Rooms and Buckingham Palace, followed by an unforgettable private dinner at Rules, London’s oldest restaurant. With vintage sporting art, antlers and sporting relics surrounding a beautifully set table, the room felt wonderfully suited to Kevin’s.
Our gracious hosts, Michael Scheepers, President of the Board, Peter Tracey, CEO of Spode and Michael Close, President of Spode USA, shared their vision for Spode, emphasizing teamwork, customer care, and strong relationships with stores like ours. Those values closely reflect our own. A highlight of the evening was receiving a beautiful commemorative Spode plate honoring Kevin’s, while Spode’s leading sales representatives were also recognized with Woodland plates.
The next morning, we traveled by train to Stoke-on-Trent, the home of Spode. Founded in 1770, the company’s historic factory site was purchased by Josiah Spode in 1776. We met managers and employees, enjoyed lunch and toured the Spode Museum. Watching the hands-on craftsmanship behind the dinnerware deepened our appreciation for its beauty and heritage. We also previewed upcoming Woodland spring releases and discussed future collections, an exciting glimpse of what’s ahead.
Throughout the visit, the team’s pride and camaraderie were unmistakable. That evening, dinner near our Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington gave us more time with our traveling companions, including our longtime Spode representative and dear friend.
Our final day took us to Windsor Castle, St George’s Chapel and the charming historic town. Music from a rehearsal filled the chapel, making the visit especially memorable.
We returned home grateful for Spode’s generous hospitality, inspired by its craftsmanship and delighted to share this special recognition with the Kevin’s customers and team who made it possible.
