Our Founders

Honoring a loved one—human or pet—should be simple and heartfelt, never complicated. Matt and Emily built our company on that belief, with a commitment to do right by families and the communities we serve.

Headquartered in Madison, WI

  1. Feburary 2015
    Timeline image

    Our Craft Takes Root

    We began as Midwest Oaks, selling handcrafted artisan goods in a variety of venues. Our earliest products included cribbage boards, Shut the Box, and similar pieces. We listened closely to what people loved and refined our craftsmanship. Those first steps grounded us in quality and care.

  2. May 2017
    Timeline image

    Growing and Listening

    We launched our first Etsy store to reach customers nationwide. We introduced unique creations like cribbage boards and home décor. We built reliable packaging and shipping processes to protect every order. Our online presence connected us with families across the U.S.

  3. September 2019
    Timeline image

    Partnerships Broaden Our Memorials

    We expanded our catalog to include human and pet memorials from leading national distributors. We carefully curated products that met our standards for craftsmanship and reliability. We improved fulfillment so families could receive memorials more quickly. Partnerships broadened choice without compromising care.

  4. January 2020
    Timeline image

    Catalog Grows, Care Deepens

    We continued growing our product catalog to offer the best options available. We strengthened our supplier network and inventory management in a challenging year. We invested in clearer product details and responsive support. Our commitment to quality and compassion never wavered.

  5. August 2020
    Timeline image

    Curated, Meaningful Tributes

    Matt began sourcing unique, handmade items from makers across the United States—pieces chosen for their meaning and quality. He refined how we deliver and communicate so families could receive what they need with less stress.

  6. December 2022
    Timeline image

    Trusted by Thousands Nationwide

    We fulfilled thousands of orders across the United States. We refined packaging and aftercare so memorials arrived safely and beautifully. We earned hundreds of five-star reviews that validated our approach. Operationally, we became faster, clearer, and more dependable.

  7. January 2024
    Timeline image

    Rethinking to Serve Better

    We stepped back to rethink our brand strategy. Even with strong reviews, we saw ways to serve families better. We evaluated our product lines, messaging, and service standards. That reset prepared us for a more focused future.

  8. Present Day
    Timeline image

    Becoming Select Urns

    Our brand has been recreated as Select Urns, focused strictly on offering the very best memorial products. We curate thoughtfully, prioritize personalization, and deliver with care. We bring forward our craftsmanship roots with a clear, compassionate purpose. We’re honored to help families remember those they love.