The pineapple story posted on our website can be accessed by clicking the following  link. 
http://pinsbyfrank.com/pineapplestory.html

One of our clients purchased pineapple pins for  Christmas gifts  and were kind enough to share the story behind the purchase.  It is a history of the pineapple as passed on to them in Alabama. 

The Pineapple Story – As told by Kenneth & Saundra Marsh of Robertsdale Alabama

 

This story has been passed onto members of my family since the boat that carried them arrived on the shores of the New World.  I am but a mere messenger of it having been told this by my parents and grandparents when I was but a boy.

 

Dating back to the 1600’s the pineapple has been a symbol of welcome and hospitality.  This was a time when pineapples or any fresh fruit was extremely rare and to have such in the house was considered very special.

 

Then during the Colonial period as ports like Boston, James Town, or Charleston to acquire a pineapple from the ships that bid trade was considered very special.  In any gathering or public assembly visitors and guests felt particularly honored by the hostess who included a pineapple during the time of a festive meal.  At this period this did show that the host and hostess sparing no expense to ensure their guests dining pleasure, warm hospitality and being held in high regard.

 

To the South and the tradition here, it did become the utmost in welcome and hospitality to any visitor.  In a Southern home where a hostess would serve this fruit as a special dessert, after the meal had been served.  The aspect of visiting, calling on neighbors or friends was a means of entertainment and cultural exchange that dates back to Colonial life.  The home that produced a pineapple for this gathering was looked upon as very special, and it to that period did symbolize the sense of high welcome, good cheer, human warmth and family affection.

 

So to a tradition that goes past Colonial times, the Southern tradition during the holiday sof a gift of a pineapple to show how special someone is and to mark in the spirit of love and hospitality the most rare of all things dating back to the 1600’s.

 

This Marie is how it has been passed unto me, and I can remember as a boy when those who were part of our family gathered at our home for the Christmas Holiday, a pineapple on the table and it being served after the holiday meal.  My mom said it was to mark how special the occasion was and to show those who came how high in regard they were held in our home and to welcome them in a special way.

I found tthis version delightful and hope others will consider sharing their versions.
Marie Bouchard
F&M's Jewelry

Employee Incentive/Employee Recognition Pins

F&M's Jewelry now offers it's small pins in 3 colors; bronze, silver and gold. 
In this way companies and organizations can use the as steps in an employee
 incemtive or regognition program.

The first company to use our products in this way is the Jamsan Hotel Group who
has found the new line to be be successful in their properties.

Email Marie@pinsbyfrank.com for more information.



Employee Incentive / Award Pins

F&M's Jewelry is a family owned and operated company.  Owner Frank Bouchard has worked in all aspects of jewelry, from plating and polishing, to custom design throughout his career.

Marie, who specializes in sales and marketing, is avaiable to assist clients with any questions they may have.  Marie also works for Johnson & Wales University, as Director of Sales & Marketing at the Johnson & Wales Inn.  Marie has enjoyed working in the hospitality industry for 30+ years.

F&M's Jewelry has created a unique line of lapel pins and products designed for the hospitality and service industries.  Our Pineapple Collection has been of special interest to lodging facilities, universities, healthcare & senior care facilities, convention bureau's and tourism boards, both domestically and internationally.  All our products are made in the USA.

The pineapple is historically known to be a symbol of hospitality.  As such, our unique line of pineapple products offer an excellent , cost effective way to say "Welcome."  When a small pineapple is affixed to a business card, it leaves a lasting impression on the recipient.  A printable pineapple story is available on our web site.    Over time we have collected some interesting versions of the "Pineapple Story" that speak to cultural differences and how the story can vary.  These stories will be shared in a future posting. 
Visitors to our site and blog are encouraged to share additional versions they may be aware of.

In addition to our Pineapple products, we also offer a "Seaside Collection", a "Lighthouse Collection" and Rhode Island Pins all unique to New England.  Also popular, are our flag pins, fork & knife pins, key pins, and pastry bag pins.  Customization is available for clients who may wish to personalize our products or  create a new pin.

We have recently updated our web site and would love you feedback on the new look. 

Future blog postings will include specials, new product information and tips on how to use our products to increase sales and visibility.

We encourage your comments,  feedback and ideas.  Ultimately, our interaction will help  to  better serve our clients.

Soon Marie