We bought 3 BoardSmith boards from 2010-12. Two are maple centers with 'nicer' woods around the outside, and the third is all cherry. They stay out on the counters and get daily use. A couple months ago my mom picked one up, and we gave one to my 16 yo niece, who is getting interested in cooking. I had briefly met David Smith at an ECG a couple years ago, but did not really get to talk to him until late last year. Now I know he is a very nice guy, in addition to producting top-quality cutting boards. Frankly I'm sure there are some other makers out there who may make boards of similar quality, but I'll stick w/ Dave for future purchases for the same reasons I stick with may of the makers and vendors here on this forum.
As far as customer service/ customer relations goes, I know it can be difficult for a small vendor/ maker to keep up with the flow of emails and phone calls. The same is true for other types of small businesses. And of course it is true for big business as well. Usually it is best to call the makers/ vendors if you need a timely response, as they are in the shop working all day and not camped out in front of a computer answering emails. Also, personalities often come across different in forums and in emails then when actually talking on the phone or face-to-face.
We will be ordering 2 more boards from David shortly to give as wedding presents.
