Simply Silhouettes specializes in cameo appearances

There are so many ways these days to show off your love for friends and family members: photo coffee mugs, engraved jewelry, license plate frames, MySpace comments. But Vancouver, Wash., company Simply Silhouettes offers a more classic approach.

The husband-and-wife team creates a silhouette of your loved one -- be it a daughter, a great uncle or a pet -- and applies the image to products ranging from stationery and T-shirts to ornaments and messenger bags. The elegant results capture the essence of children, friends, even the family dog, down to their cowlicks and eyelashes. Basic black is one option, but shoppers can also choose from a rainbow of custom colors.

Here's how it works: A customer visits the company's Web site and chooses the product she would like to order. Orders can be made either online or by phone (360-991-9721). The customer then sends electronic or print photos of her subject to Simply Silhouettes and the company produces a profile, which is then printed onto the stationery, apparel or canvas of your choice. The whole process takes about a month.

For the holidays, there's a selection of wrapping paper, cards, stamps, address labels and ornaments. Products start at around $40 for a box of 20 note cards, a throw pillow or a deck of playing cards and range up to $400 for a 30-by-30-inch canvas.

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