November 14th, 2011
Last March I was walking up and down Atlantic Avenue when a store caught my eye. I had not seen it before so I decided to stop and that’s how I met Michele Ramirez, the proprietor of Varietai. You will find Varietai at 812 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-455-2767. Website? www.varietai.com. Find Varietai Delray on Facebook.
Since I started my blog, I have, definitely, met a lot of people. Most of them have been so charming and friendly. But, others, stand out. Michele is one of them. We just hit it off. A friendship is developing; so nice to see her again.
It is almost a year since she opened Varietai. She has a following. But, Michele is not new to this business. Years ago she had a store in Delray called Durango’s Attic. You might have even met her then.
If you have not stop by Varietai, please do so. The shop is full of beautiful items; some are fine consignments. Others, are quirky; many have their own sophistication.
       
I guess is that time of the year to jazz the home. Varietai is full of color, exactly what you would have expected in South Florida.
Michele is also an artist. She loves to paint. Check the floor of the store. All painted by her. The theme? The Japanese Koi.
Ask any questions you want. Michele has an eye for color and design and pays great attention to details. Her shop really is one of those must stop shops in Delray.
Varietai offers jewelry from Bali; wonderful colors and very unique, as well.
 
Deliveries? On week-ends…talk to you later…By the way, Michele; my friend loved his housewarming gift. Thanks for your help!!
October 31st, 2011
“Glassblowing is a glassforming technique that involves inflating molten glass into a bubble, or parison, with the aid of a blow pipe, or blow tube.” It was invented by the Phoenicians at approximately 50 BC. A person who blows glass is called a glassblower, glassmith, or gaffer.
I spent so many years going to Berlin that it seemed like a second home to me. Since those days the town has so many more stores and an artist village has emerged. Just like in Rehoboth, Bethany and Lewes, the shopkeepers of Historic downtown Berlin are friendly and a joy to talk to.
I cannot draw, paint, or sculpt; I am in awe of anyone that can express him or herself in such a way. There must be sensitivity that I do not pocess.
So, there I was in front of Jeffrey Auxer Designs, located at 19 Jefferson St., Berlin, MD 21811. Tel. 443-513-4210. Website? www.jeffreyauxer.com.
The building was pretty neat. It looked like it had been a garage at some point, but I am not sure. The Gallery was not very big; just perfect. As you come in be prepared for a burst of color. You will smile; you can’t help it.
Slowly take it all in. Check the pieces because each has been individually hand blown. A work of art by Jeff, who I found to be reserved but friendly. I also met Adam the first time I visited.
Jeff is a local guy, having graduated from Stephen Decatur, Berlin, Maryland, and then attended Salisbury University. In business for more than several years.
In his studio you will find home decor, lighting, vessel sinks, hanging platters, centerpiece bowls, vases, jewelry and many other items for gifts, or for your own personal indulgence.
 Sink 
I asked Jeff what pieces he liked the most. He mentioned the lamps. They truly are works of art and very unique.
 
In the middle of the Gallery there was a case with golf putters. He can customize them with pretty much any sport’s team. They are $125. You would have to call him to the above telephone number and tell him if you are right or left handed and tell him what logo you would like.
Jeff is also making jewelry. Loved the ring holders.
On Friday, November 2nd, his Studio will participate in the 2nd Friday Art Stroll. This is an event that takes place the 2nd Friday of every month from 5-8 p.m. Shops and galleries in Historic Berlin open late to give the visitors a time to get to know them better.
From November 12th until December 17th – Saturdays, there will be a hand blown glass ornament making class. $15/ornament. Ages 4 to……Just call the Studio at 443-513-4210 to reserve your spot.
Glass Blowing Classes are held every other week-end, as well. Just call the number above mentioned for class times and pricing.
A Party Experience – Bring your party to the Studio. Make a paperweight for $75. All info. regarding this unique experience can be found by visiting www.jeffreyauxer.com.
So, to my friends in Rehoboth and Lewes I just want to let you know that it only takes about 45 minutes or so to get to Berlin. Not a bad drive.
From Ocean City is just 10 or 15 minutes and from Salisbury, it only takes about 25 minutes.
I really enjoyed it…..more to come from Berlin…as I was strolling through the town…
Note: Some info. for this post was taken from Wikipedia.
October 9th, 2011
I was thinking that I know that it is October, but at the Delaware Beaches, it feels like July. All those smells that remind me of the beach and why I love to live here were there when I stepped out of the car; French fries, pizza, barbecue….it has been a gorgeous week-end; so crowded as visitors take advantage of warm days…yes, sitting on the beach and cooler evenings.
So many happenings in town, sidewalk sales, fundraising events, arts and entertainment.
This week I decided to visit J. Conn Scott in fashionable and trendy Baltimore Avenue in Rehoboth. The actual address is 27 Baltimore Ave. Tel. 302-227 3780. Website? http://www.jconnscott.com.
Last year I wrote a post on its Main Showroom located at 6 East Church St. in Selbyville, DE 19975. Tel. 302-436-8205.
A lot of times when you hear about “showhouses” you probably think that it is a conglomerate of designers united for a cause, annually. That is probably true in most cases. But, at J. Conn Scott you will find a Showhouse that changes weekly. It is the work of talented designers changing the look and feel of this vintage beach house.
Because this location was an actual house, as you enter you feel right at home. It is the perfect place to get inspiration, checking out innovative designs, maybe an idea here or there. Full service design services are offered. And, Richard will be the first to tell you that everything is for sale.
A couple of new things have been added to J. Conn Scott; jewelry. The line? Catherine Canino Jewelry. The jewelry is handcrafted in New York City; sterling, brass, leather, exotic woods, fresh water pearls and hand carved lacquered mother of pearl. Lisa told me that it has been very well received. It is traditional and classic with a slight edge to it.
  
They have also introduced several lines of handbags which you will see throghout the Showhouse.
  
Vagabond House is new at the store. Tableware and gifts; handcrafted pewter that does not tarnish, rust or even affect the taste of food. Dishwasher safe, as well.
Lilly Pulitzer is another line that is represented at the Showhouse. For many years making a statement in designer clothing. A new line of furniture and accessories came out into the market and it is doing tremendously well.
 
There is so much to see and appreciate. Check out the “bedroom”.
   
 
I am having fun writing this post because I feel like I am “window” shopping.
We live on the beach. Of course, we have to have some of the “shell” collection on the floor. A must at the beaches.
 
 
 
Moving to the nautical room, this is what you will find.
 
If you are visiting the Delaware Beaches and see something that you might like from J. Conn Scott, please be informed that they do deliver. Customer service is one of their big strengths. Once you become their customer they want you to remain a friend.
On my visit to the store I first talked to Richard and Lisa. Later on, when I actually came to take the pictures and see what changes Richard had made in the individual rooms, I then met Jeanne. Thanks Jeanne for taking care of me.
The Showhouse has so many nice gifts, whether for housewarming, wedding or just for yourself.
     
If you stop on Tuesdays, I believe, that’s where you will see Richard changing the look and feel of the Showhouse. Here are my last pictures. I hope something caught your eye.
J. Conn Scott opens 7 days a week, so just stop by and introduce yourselves.
Remember that all those sidewalk sales are still going strong in Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach and Rt. 1 outlets. Enjoy the super weather we are having……talk to you later.
September 20th, 2011
I cannot believe that I still have a couple of posts from my trip to Baltimore, where I discovered so many interesting places to visit and to dine.
One of them, which I really liked was a very unique glassblowing studio called Corradetti. It is located at 2010 Clipper Park Rd., Suite 119, Baltimore, MD 21211. Tel. 410-243-2010. Website? www.corradetti.com.
I went to see Overlook Cipper Mill which are contemporary homes with wooded views and the latest in sustainable design options. Corradetti was in this complex.
Anthony Corradetti is the artist. His work consists of “painting multiple layers of metallic paints which are individually kiln fired on large blown glass vessels”. Vessels are bowls. I remember learning about them when I wrote about the Happyrock Pottery a couple of weeks ago.
You can read about this process and about the different workshops that Corradetti is offering by just visiting the website above mentioned.
The studio is gorgeous. If you are interested in hosting a party at the studio, just give them a call because the studio is available for parties.
The Gallery has a beautiful representation of his work and are available for purchase.
So, I am passing on the info. just in case you find yourselves in Charm City or if you are in need of a gift that will certainly be a conversation piece.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later….
September 11th, 2011
“After the design is firmly fixed, the decoration is added. Decorating is the final enhancement.” albert hadley
I finally made it to Rooster’s Nest. Friends had told me again and again to write a post on this really neat shop west of Fenwick Island; just a couple of miles only. It is in the Bayville Shopping Center, 37244 Lighthouse Rd., #108. Tel. 302-436-1848, Fax is 302-436-1868. Website? www.roostersnest.com.
The proprietors are William Shoemaker and Sally Walsh. Rooster’s Nest is celebrating its 5th year in business.
As I came in, the first ladies I met were Dawn and Beth. I introduced myself, like I usually do. Having to get approval for me to take pictures, the owners were called and they agreed. Dawn and Beth told me a little bit about the store.
Everything in it is for sale, including the furniture pieces where merchandise is displayed. Before I forget, they can store furniture within reason and there is free delivery, as well. But, please do check with them.
 
 
At first look the store looked beautiful and fully stocked. A sweeping glance of it told me that it was one of those “must stop” shops, here at the Delaware Beaches. It is centrally located; a very easy drive. It took about 20 minutes from Rehoboth Beach.
 
I asked Dawn how she would describe the store and she did not hesitate to say “French Country”. Just looking at the colors I could see those blues, yellows, reds and blacks that are so prevalent in the region of Provence, on the south east of France. 
French Country has the feel of a warm and sunny place. The store carries classic European and American merchandise.
  
I took so many pictures. Could not help it. Rooster’s Nest has the perfect finishing touches for the home.
Besides being able to find those decorating indispensables, you could find gifts for any occasions, including gifs for him.
Products from Bella Cucina are perfect for a hostess gift.
Something caught my eye. The antique bottles on the armoire. They were so unique. They are made in Southern California by Jamie Dietrich. They are authentic bottles from the 1800’s to early 1900’s. They were decorated with handmade crystals and shell work.
I own a couple of Bossom Buddy bags. They are made in Baltimore, Maryland.
Plenty of gifts for the golf enthusiast; conversation pieces like the ball made out of Bobby Jones vintage clubs. Also available were books, lamps among other items.
 
Candles and soaps always make a nice gift. Lotions and colognes from Rogert & Gallet, Paris.
The coast is a beautiful place to call home and it was well represented at the store.
   
Even though summer is, officially, until the end of September, we can’t forget that Halloween and Thanksgiving are around the corner. Already the store had decorations for that most anticipated times of the year.
Did anything catch your eye? It still amazes me to see all the options we have when it come to shopping, dining, entertainment and activities. So much have changed at the Beaches. Lucky to call it home…..
Talk to you later…Guess what?…I do have extra pictures of Rooster’s Nest and they will be on Facebook on AboutMyBeaches…just in case you have missed something…
Talk to you later….
August 10th, 2011
I stopped at Joss II the other day. This visit was way past due. I had been told that this shop had opened in the spring. That, I should check it out because there was a connection to a well loved and respected shop many years ago in Rehoboth Beach.
I think when you are writing about Joss II, there is no way you can go around it and not mention the original Joss that was located on the corner of Baltimore Ave. and First Street in Rehoboth Beach. If you were a visitor or a resident of Rehoboth you must have stopped there. Remember Ross Alexander? He was the life of the store. I used to stop even if I was not really looking for anything. He was a true shopkeeper; friendly, caring, knew his products well. Most of all, he was a true gentleman.
Marylin and Dina worked at Joss for years and years. Now, they are putting their own sense of style in Joss II, located at 19470 Coastal Highway, Unit 5, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel. 302-227-8373. They are on Facebook and working on their website, as I write this post.
If you are on Rt. 1 or Coastal Highway, you will see the bright yellow and smiling sun, which is the emblem. Stop in and introduce yourself. You will find that this shop is a “one stop shop” if you are looking for something for yourself, your home, a friend or for anyone on your list, including your pet.
Parking!! The exclamation points are because at this time of the year that is so important. So, just pull in and don’t worry about parking meters; plenty of time to shop and enjoy yourself.
Joss II looks good. The beautiful pillows on the floor? Very stylish. Marilyn told me that they are dog pillows. But, a few customers have bought them for their own personal use.
I was looking for a couple of gifts. Marilyn helped me out, including the wrapping. Joss II has cards, wrapping paper, gift bags and paper products.
From dips, chocolates, crackers, lotions and potions to doormats, lamps and accessories to finish a room.
And, if you are a pet owner, then check the collars and treat boxes. They are the cutest.
Joss II is opens 6 days a week. Mondays to Saturdays.
I think you will be very pleased with the store and with its prices. Let me know how you like it. Better yet, let them know how you like it.
Have a great day!!…..Gorgeous!! What a difference a day makes…talk to you later.
June 26th, 2011
The very first time I wrote about TaDa I mentioned that it was the effort of a mother and daughter team, Blair Elizabeth and her mother, Patty. I was so surprised to see that the sister store to TaDa, called TaDa Home it really is a family affair. Father; Steve, mother; Patty, sisters; Blair and Brooke. Their combined artistic talents is what is making TaDa Home a must stop shop in Berlin, Maryland.
Berlin is located 7 miles from Ocean City. This historic town dates back to the 1790’s. I used to be in Berlin every day for so many years. I think my car still knows the route.
And, there I was. Showing my cousin, Rosalyn, a most unique town.
TaDa Home is located at 27 N. Main Street, Berlin, MD. Tel. 410-641-4430. Websites? http://www.blairelizabeth.com and www.shoptada.com.
I was so happy to see Brooke at the store. She immediately started showing us around. So proud that she has had a hand on the development of this shop.
TaDa Home has furniture that is beautifully painted by Patty. Patty is an accomplished artist in her own right and her touches make this furniture come alive. You see, some of this furniture is getting a second chance. Brooke and Steve have been combing the country side; picking just the right piece or the right wood.
Some of the antique woods on the frames could be from an old barn. They have been able to salvage them and frame some of Patty’s artwork. Others are made into frames and are also for sale.
The day I visited an octupus motif was in some of the art, furniture and pillows.
The furniture is beautifully restored. The hardware so pretty.
The store is very open and you can move around easily.
A section for jellies, jams and marinades, along with epicurian books.
So many of the details that make this store are so personal to this family. Brooke showed the glass vases that can add to any room of your house.
The watercolor from Rincon painted by Patty. A favorite town of the family in Puerto Rico.
I took so many pictures. Everything looked so nice and the perfect shop to find gifs for any occasion.
I noticed a frame with the name TaDa on it; just under the table. I think you might be interested to know what it said.
TaDa Home is proud to support The Stephen Falck Foundation for MSA Research. Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is currently without treatment or cure. It is their hope that by funding research for this illness they may help those currently suffering; and provide hope in the future for a cure.
A portion of every sale from TaDa Home will be donated to MSA in honor of Steve Falck, the girls’ father, Patty’s husband, and everyone’s friend.
They thank all of you that shop at TaDa Home for the support.
Note: Two websites that describe MSA well are www.wemove.org/msa/ and www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/multiple_system_atrophy.
Talk to you later….
May 24th, 2011
Downtown Rehoboth Beach is a fun place to shop. Many of the stores and restaurants are easily found on the “Avenue” but some of the most interesting ones are found on the side streets that weave around this coastal town. From the beach you can stroll through the town; it is that relaxed. It is also that casualness, fun and eclectic lifestyle that brings visitors every year to get away from it all. We, the residents, love it and know how special it is to live here.
I was walking on trendy Baltimore Avenue when a shop caught my eye. It seemed I had seen it somewhere else. It was in the Shops of the Rehoboth Mews. This is a “street mall”. Just one alley from Rehoboth Ave. to Baltimore Ave. with shops and coffee shops on either side.
The store is brand new in the Rehoboth Shopping Circuit. For the past 15 months they had been in Lewes, just up the road. Here, in town, they were getting great foot traffic.
Just like anywhere else, once a new store or restaurant opens people just show up. As I stepped into the store I noticed that there was abundant color throughout the store. Summertime brings that. You are at the beach so go for it.
This shop is fun, and very eclectic with affordable prices. A gift for a friend; an unexpected hostess gift, or your own personal indulgence.
Josephine’s Daughter is at 129 Rehoboth Ave., Suite D, 40 Rehoboth Mews. The tel. is 302-260-9577 and the website is http://www.josephinesdaughter.com. I think it is easier to find parking on Baltimore Ave. and access the store from that street. Please note that you can find Josephines Daughter on Facebook.
Come with me. Let’s go shopping. The pictures will show you a sample of what’s in store for you. Scarves and accessories.
Cute summer handbags.
There is a signature line of ankle high art-print boots.
These sandals were so cute. The pair comes with one set of decorative clip-ons; you can buy extra ones. The sandals were stylish, well made and comfortable.
There was another line of shoes and sandals, just as colorful as the rest and there were plenty of women trying them on and saying how good they felt on their feet.
I did not see too many things for men; therefore, I would say this store is predominantly for us, women. But wait, the game fish bottle openers will be for the guys.
The jewelry? One of a kind pieces made for Josephine’s Daughter.
  
I did not try the Saress on. This is called the ultimate beach dress; wear it from the beach to a happy hour; to dinner. It is supposed to be comfortable, stylish and always appropriate on or off the beach.
Then I saw the Wallaroo hats. I know this company. They are from Boulder, Colorado. The hats are available in a variety of styles for men, women and children.
The majority of the fabrics block 97.5% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Look for the label which determines which hats are UPF-50. If you want to learn more about this company, please visit www.wallaroohats.com. Josephine’s daughter had a nice selection.
Josephine’s daughter has home accents, as well. A vase here, a mirror there. Serving pieces and wine stoppers.
The store has a second floor with some furniture and art, as well. That room was being put together. But, this is what I found.
Customers, smiles, laughter, strolling with a friend, summertime, the beach….it is great.
Have a good one……talk to you later…
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