What's in a name? The meaning behind Alison Rose Vintage

In the play Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, Juliet pondered, “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” In this scene, Shakespeare was introducing the idea that what we call things is irrelevant—it's the deeper meanings that we attach to names and words that matter.

This is exactly why I started Alison Rose Vintage. Words can mean more to us than a dictionary definition—it’s the people and experiences we attach to words that give them their deeper meanings.

With this in mind, I began writing my own whimsical definitions for words and names. For example, behind my name, “Alison,” is an old soul with a generous heart, adored daughter and dog mom, and a lover of books and snail mail. My dog "Shiloh" is a loyal companion with a sweet heart, best friend, four-legged family member, and a muffin.

When naming this business, I tossed around several different options, but I ultimately landed on incorporating my first and middle name, Alison Rose, because I wanted people to feel a sense of familiarity and connection to me, the person behind the business. And I chose the word “vintage” because it described the look and feel I wanted for my prints and cards—simple, belonging to an earlier time, classic.  

The purpose of this business is to spread love and hope. Words have the ability to build us up or tear us down, and I want the word art that I create to be a part of uplifting others. The superheroes in our lives deserve appreciation. Our friends and colleagues who are working and parenting and taking care of themselves need extra encouragement. Those in the thick of grief need our comfort and support.

Giving is core to who I am. I try to give a piece of myself through every product I make and through the words in my social media posts, newsletters, and this blog. I’ve experienced a lot of joy and pain just in the 5 years I’ve been in business. I always want you to feel comforted by my humanity, vulnerability, and giving spirit, and to also remember that we can always love ourselves and others a little bit more.

I love working closely with my customers to create something that is personal. I get to read the most beautiful wedding vows, hear fun facts about siblings and grandchildren, learn about cancer survivors and those battling depression, and grieve losses alongside people I’ve never even met. I truly value being a small part of your life moments.

I hope you’ll give me a chance to share in your joy and pain the next time you’re looking for a special gift for a loved one or a keepsake for yourself. Check out my shop or reach out to me on social media with any questions.

With love,

Alison Rose

Shop: alisonrosevintage.com

Social media: @alisonrosevintage