Meet the Team
A design studio often brings together exceptional talent,and ours is no exception. From our founder and creative visionary, Shari to our impeccable designer, Monica, we offer to you a fiercely passionate and experienced team. Each of us is lovestruck by what we get to create together, and we can't wait to meet you and build something wondrous.
Shari Lebowitz
Founder and Creative Director
A New York City interior designer with my own studio, I was drawn to the coastal beauty of Westport, Connecticut. Moving here several years ago, I leaned into my love of paper design, parties and entertaining. I started Bespoke Designs as a wedding and personal stationery shop, and now seven years in, we are a celebration and lifestyle destination.
Classically trained at Parsons School of Design, I’m constantly thinking in terms of color, shape, and pattern. I studied art history and have been fortunate to travel extensively. As a lifelong knitter and devoted gardener, I’m attuned to texture, craftsmanship, and the beauty of nature all around us in every season. I bring all of this to Bespoke Designs, plus, I’m a party person at heart. I love to set a beautiful table and whip up a signature cocktail.
When I launched Bespoke Designs, something told me I couldn’t be the only human to be thrilled by beautiful, artisanal invitations and stationery - and I was right. Working with our wonderful clients and our super creative team is a privilege - and so much fun.
Favorite color: Pink, can’t get enough
Favorite flower: Dahlia because they can be such show-offs
Guilty pleasure: How much I love to knit and how much yarn I have in my stash. #ifkyk
Happy place: My garden, sipping Rosé with friends
Monica Gorski
Graphic Art and Design Lead
My background is in fine art printmaking, graphic design, and special events. I have an affinity for ink on paper and traditional print processes like letterpress and engraving. I love layering and texture, and bring that sensibility to my work. I enjoy working with clients and helping to convey their stories through their invitations and stationery. Often people don’t realize how much they are going to enjoy the paper design process. When I hear that invitations are their favorite part of their event planning, that’s the highest compliment I can imagine.
If I could go to dinner with anyone, it would be: Bob Dylan, for his soul and wisdom.
Would you believe it if I told you: I love to run and actually get runner’s high
Best wedding music: A funk band
Fave travel experience: Italy. I studied there and would love to go back!
The person who keeps me on my toes: My 3-year-old daughter
Lauren Zanfardino
Retail Team
I enjoy working in such a beautifully curated shop. Having two young boys makes it difficult to have such nice things in my own home at this stage, so coming to work is like a little escape for me. In the shop, it’s fun helping customers discover the perfect gift. It has been a joy to learn the ropes from Shari and work with customers to create stationery and other items for weddings and parties. I love the surprise that comes from opening boxes from the printer, and especially love assembling wedding invitations - the more ribbon, wax seals and special details, the better!
Fave travel experience: Thailand. It was interesting to be immersed in such a different culture.
Fave holiday: Christmas eve…growing up in a large Italian family, we would have the seven fishes and sit down to a multi course meal at a beautifully decorated table.
What keeps me sane: Working out. I make it a priority most every day.
On Entertaining: It’s worth the extra effort to make a get-together feel thoughtful and special!
Meet Walter
Walter is Shari's miniature poodle and he is here with us every day. His duties include welcoming all visitors and shredding paper. He's a very friendly guy, so feel free to bring your pooch along with you.