The following letter went out to friends and customers of Bramhall & Dunn this week.

It is with a mixture of anticipation, excitement and gratitude that I am writing to inform you of the conclusion of Bramhall & Dunn at the end of 2011. I have been happily leading this enterprise for the past 28 years, since 1983 when I was 25 years old. I am now eagerly looking forward to the next phases and adventures in my life, whatever they may be.

I have had a great time with Bramhall & Dunn over the years. What started with a focus on all manner of textiles grew to include whatever caught my fancy that reflected my idea of a lifestyle suited to Island living. I feel very proud of the beautiful collection of quality merchandise that we assembled and presented in a homelike environment, graced by Wendy Whipple’s displays, the most beautiful anywhere, on Island or off. I’ve worked with the most steadfast, loyal and delightful colleagues, some for many years, including Wendy for 23! I have met many wonderful, imaginative artists and designers from whom I’ve purchased creative work. I am especially proud of what I hope you will agree was a warm and welcoming presence on Main Street. More than anything, it’s been the personal relationships that we all have shared with all of you that has been so rewarding. We all are honored to have been a part of people’s lives for many generations.

None of this would have been possible without you, my incredibly supportive and loyal customers. You have made it fun, rewarding, gratifying. You have become my friends, the store’s raison d’etre. Your support has meant so much to me. Those of you who make B& D your first stop when you get off the ferry and the last before you board, can’t imagine how gratifying that feels. We had customers last weekend, who after driving up from Brooklyn, came to the Vineyard Haven store off the boat, then on to the Edgartown store before heading home to Aquinnah — and all before their poor dog had been let out for a walk!

Some may ask if the difficult economy factored into my decision and I can honestly say that it did not. In fact, when times started getting tough in 2008, I saw it as a challenge and we successfully adapted to meet it. Others may wonder if the huge growth in Internet shopping was a factor. Again, it was not. We are proud of the personal attention and lovely environment that we provide our customers and know that they appreciated it as well. This kind of service cannot be duplicated on the Internet. I will make a plea, however, to all those who value the experience of shopping in a physical store and value vibrant towns to make every effort to support their local merchants. They cannot exist without your business. In my case, I am just ready to move on and pursue the many, many other options and adventures yet to be discovered.

We are having a celebration party and sale starting on 11/11/11 and I hope to see you. I thank you. It’s been a great time.

All the best to you. With gratitude.

Emily Bramhall
Chilmark