1. Cambridge Silversmiths, Limited Inc. | 116 Lehigh Drive, Fairfield, NJ 07004 | tel 973.227.4400 | fax 973.227.5600 www.cambridgesilversmiths.com Ten Top Tips on How To Purchase Stainless Steel Flatware

2. In a recent survey of our customers, we learned that the first thing they looked for when selecting flatware was how comfortable it was to use or handle. Of course, this incorporates the average weight and shape of the given utensils and how easy it was for the customer to hold and use. Some people like heavier flatware and others lean towards eating with lighter utensils. Regardless, it was the most important attribute for making the decision. Many of our purchasers also buy flatware as gifts. On some occasions they may try to match the pattern with the recipient’s personality or guess what would go with their dinnerware. On another note, whether you are shopping online or perhaps in a retail store, you may not actually be able to pick up a utensil to try it out. We suggest if that’s the case, that when you are dining out at a restaurant or at a friend’s home, FEEL the flatware and see what you are comfortable eating with. Research can be a fun as well as rewarding experience in the long run and you will acquire knowledge of how different one brand can feel versus another. Tip #1 – Comfort & Ease of Use

3. Tip #2 – Design The second thing people look for when selecting flatware is almost as important and comfort and ease-of- use. It’s the design or pattern that a person finds most esthetically appealing for a variety of reasons. For example, if you are looking for place settings that are formal and most used for entertaining, then you might consider a Classic or European pattern. Classic designs are reminiscent of the styles first used in the 17th and 18th centuries. They tend to feature swirls and long lines representative of the nature of the culture, art, and taste of a given period in history. On the other hand, if your flatware is going to be used on a daily basis, you may be looking for a pattern that is simpler in appearance and fits your overall décor and interior design scheme. A lot will depend on the amount of intended usage which will directly affect the amount of washing and maintenance. In this case, practicality may rule over other design variables including the composition of the steel alloy, the finish and other matters which will be discussed in tips that follow. Cambridge Silversmiths lets you choose from nearly 300 patterns, so you can be sure the right pattern for you is in our collection.

4. Tip #3 – Dishwasher Safe You will definitely want to choose a flatware product that is easy-to-maintain and especially dishwasher safe. Even before you use your new flatware, it should be washed thoroughly by hand or in your dishwasher. Not only is Cambridge stainless safe to use in your dishwasher, it is also stain resistant. There may be an occasion where some discoloration may appear when using a dishwasher. However, this can be removed with a stainless steel cleaner. Just make sure you follow the instructions carefully. When you wash by hand, always use hot water and a mild soap or detergent. Rinse thoroughly in clean, hot water immediately after washing. Note: a detergent that is harsh may contain lemon which can harm flatware surfaces. It’s also best to wash your flatware right after using it to avoid the possibilities of possible corrosion or pitting. One thing you never want to do is to leave your flatware soaking overnight or leave utensils unwashed for a similar period of time. Last, to keep your knives sharp, it’s best to clean them right away and dry them as soon as possible. Make sure you don’t store them in plastic or an air tight container that traps moisture.

5. Tip #4 – Quality & Value Obviously, when you shop for flatware you should aim to purchase the highest quality products at the most reasonable price. At Cambridge Silversmiths, we promise to give you flatware with “unforgettable style” and, at the same time, an “unbelievable value”. We have created nearly 300 different flatware designs for you to choose from and we manufacture every product ourselves. Our collections represent five generations of skill and expertise. We think of our business as “A CRAFT OF HANDS” that adds grace to your family’s table with flatware that is designed and finished in accord with time-honored techniques. Our standards of craftsmanship apply to every piece, every setting and accessory in our line. Easy to hold. Beautiful to behold. Built to last. The result is that we provide the highest quality products to make your tabletop experience truly exceptional. Cambridge flatware also carries a 25-year warranty from date of purchase with regard to repairs or replacement.

6. Tip #5 – Selection & Accessories We know that most stainless steel flatware shoppers want a broad selection of patterns from which to choose. We not only offer nearly 300 patterns and designs, but we are constantly introducing new patterns every year. There’s a pattern for almost any type of personality match covering a broad range of artistic styles and creations. Whatever your design preference may be, Cambridge offers you many choices that you will find appealing. We also offer several accessories including a variety of storage products for your flatware. Not only are the great for protecting your flatware, but they provide an organized way for you to keep and store your flatware. These products range from in-drawer trays to formal, elegant storage chests. In addition, you may purchase a five piece Hostess Set of serving utensils to round out your set. For special entertaining, ask about our demitasse spoons, or cocktail forks for appetizers and cheese sets for different types of cheeses. Perhaps, you might also want to consider purchasing our cutlery items as well. Whatever your flatware requirements may be, we offer a complete complex of products for your dining, serving and storage needs.

7. Tip #6 – Finishes The surface finish of your stainless steel flatware choice is a combination of personal taste and how your flatware will be used most often. What type of finish you choose can often be a reflection of your lifestyle plus the intended use. For example, if you want to use the flatware for more formal occasions, you will want a polished finish that is more classic looking. If you desire a pattern than is more contemporary and softer-looking, then you might prefer a matte finish. Many customers prefer a brushed finish because it doesn’t show scratches easily as a result of heavy usage. Whichever you choose, if the stainless is of the same grade, the flatware will last for the same amount of time. Some people prefer a brushed finish as opposed to a smooth mirror finish mainly because it does not show scratches easily and does not require special polishing to keep its sheen. Obviously, those folks most likely use their flatware regularly. Nonetheless, if you take proper care of your stainless steel and it is of a high grade, little extra care is needed to ensure the finish you choose will not lose its luster. For more information on the variety of finishes offered by Cambridge, visit the product selection pages on our website.

8. Tip #7– Gifting Flatware Lots of people give flatware as a gift. This includes weddings and other events wherein setting up a new household in involved. But, there are many occasions where relatives and close friends augment the flatware on individuals or couples with serving pieces, additional settings and cutlery…to name a few. Of course, in many of these situations, the pattern has already been decided upon. However, in situations where you will decide on the design, gauge, grade and finish, you will most likely make your decision based on the lifestyle of the person(s) who will be receiving your gift. For young people who are continually on-the-go and don’t entertain much, you will most likely want them to have flatware that is sturdy and very easy-to-maintain. Keep in mind how the “comfort fit” should be. For example, try to imagine the type of use the flatware will get by the type of individual’s personality. To illustrate, a young male in his first-time household will probably want a heavier flatware with a high gauge and a brushed or matte finish. You get the idea. More importantly, you won’t have to worry about finding the right match for the right person(s) from the large variety and broad selection Cambridge offers you to choose from.

9. Tip #8 – Warranty One of the things most people do not think about when purchasing flatware is a warranty. Regardless of how good a quality control program a company sets up, they may be an occasional “glitch” once in a while. However, when you buy from Cambridge Silversmiths, that’s not a problem. You see, Cambridge® Flatware carries a limited 25-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in materials or workmanship. Any defective piece may be returned, postage-paid, for repair or replacement (at the company’s discretion) to: Cambridge Silversmiths, 116 Lehigh Drive, Fairfield, New Jersey 07004. You can also visit our website for more information: www.cambridgesilversmiths.com

10. Tip #9– Innovative Company Since the early 90’s, Cambridge has become the leading flatware source for almost every major retailer, including Walmart, Crate and Barrel, William Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Neiman Marcus, Bed Bath and Beyond, Federated Dept Stores, Saks Dept Stores, Target Stores, Costco, Kohl's, Bloomingdale's, Dillard's Dept Stores, J.C. Penney and Sears Dept Store. The company markets over 250 different flatware designs in every price range, including 18-8, 18-10 and forged products. It also acts as a licensee for Robert Welch Designs, William Welch, Farberware and Fiesta. Private label programs for whom it designs, manufacturers, and distributes products include the Palm Restaurant, Food Network, Living Quarters, Better Home and Gardens, Cindy Crawford and others. Because Cambridge is award-winning in its creative designs, you will always find new and exciting patterns and tableware products to choose from that will make your special as well as informal dining most enjoyable.

11. Tip #10 – Availability & Customer Service We know how important our customers are to us. It’s one of the reasons we have created an entirely new web site that is user-friendly and designed to provide as much necessary information to our customers as possible. Whether your adding to your selection or looking for replacement pieces, our customer service representatives are always there to help you. In fact, if you visit our Blog, you will see some of the extraordinary comments we receive on a fairly regular basis. Also, you can purchase Cambridge products directly online from our web site. Check in every now and then to take advantage of our special sales offered on the site as well. At Cambridge Silversmiths, we are available to answer any questions you may have. We are here to serve you.