Since You Asked ...
What's the Story Behind the Name?
Trade and John are streets that intersect in the middle of Matthews, North Carolina. It's actually a really nondescript intersection that could be in Anytown USA. So many people go through every day - some to visit, and others just passing through. But it's something they all have in common. We lived in Matthews for ten years before moving to Virginia, and it's our way of honoring the often overlooked places where lives intersect. For a deeper dive into our "why" check out Our Story.
What Else do You Do?
Nothing. At least for now. We believe it's better to do few things really well than it is to try to cater to external pressures to expand. It's always flattering to receive requests to build tables or other furniture, or to cater events. But we're laser focused on crafting Trade & John signature boards.
Where is Trade & John?
We're located in Fredericksburg, Virginia. While we have dreams of opening a store front of our own, for now we are operating online and at various local pop-up markets. If you're within a reasonable distance, we'll be happy to meet up!
Is it Safe to Prepare and Eat Food On a Wooden Board?
YES!! Our boards are all 100% food safe. The hardwoods we use (mostly walnut and maple) are naturally anti-bacterial, so it takes very little effort to keep our cheese boards clean and sanitary. Don't believe us? Just ask Bob Vila:
Yeah, But Isn't It Really Hard to Maintain?
Actually, not at all. Here's the deal. It's OK to get it wet, but just remember that wood naturally absorbs moisture. So don't submerge it in the sink and please don't ever run it through the dishwasher. Simply wipe it down and make sure it's dry before putting it away. You may need a little water or a wet paper towel to get that leftover brie off the board (not that anyone ever has leftover brie ...), but that's no problem. Apply any food-safe butcher block oil or wax when the finish begins to lose its luster. It's that simple!
This Board is Beautiful, But I'm Afraid of Scratching it Up. Can I Cut on it?
I guess that's up to you, but Trade & John boards are made to be used as functional works of art. Cut up some charcuterie for your crew and then hang it on the wall when you're done! Every scratch tells a story, and the more you cut on it, the more you realize how durable it really is. If it begins to get more "fuzzy" than you'd like, just take some fine grit sandpaper (220 or higher), smooth it over, and it'll be good as new. Unlike those cheap junky plastic boards, a Trade & John board can take a lifetime of use.
Why Are They All Different?
At Trade & John, we carefully craft each of our charcuterie boards and custom cutting boards by hand from locally-sourced hardwoods. While there will inevitably be similarity from one to the next, we let the flow of the grain dictate the size and shape of the board. Part of the beauty of any natural product is its inherent flaws, each with its own story to tell. While we take great pride in offering an outstanding product for you to enjoy, some imperfections cannot be helped. We consider those imperfections to be part of the character that sets them apart from what you might find in larger retailers that provide mass-produced products.
Are You On Social Media?
Yep! You can follow our two accounts on Instagram. @trade_and_john is the perfect resource for inspiration and tips how to style food on your board. @tradeandjohn_woodworks is the best place to see some of the boards we're making and get some behind the scenes info. Tag us in your pics, and use the hashtags #TradeAndJohn and #CarefullyChosen.