December 15th, 2017
“Our many different cultures notwithstanding, there’s something about the holidays that makes the planet communal. Even nations that do not celebrate Christmas can’t help but be caught up in the collective spirit of their neighbors, as twinkling lights dot the landscape and carols fill the air. It’s an inspiring time of the year.” marlo thomas
When you think about it Christmas gives us an opportunity for reflection. Another year has gone by and next year is full of promise.
Our Delaware Beaches are full of visitors still. It has been so many years when these beaches used roll up their sidewalks on Labor Day. They are true year-round resorts. Shopping local and getting into the Christmas Spirit took me the other day to Wharton’s, located at 19385 Old Landing Rd., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. It is by WalMart. Tel. 302-227-0913. Website? www.whartonslandscaping.com
It is a one stop shop at this time of the year. Besides offering landscaping services, Wharton’s has gorgeous Christmas trees, wreaths and everything you can imagine to get your home ready for the holidays.
If you come at the end of the day, Wharton’s is illuminated. From the outdoors you can enter the shop.
Lots of photos on this post because we are so visual, and pictures are worth a thousand words, plus this place is beautiful. Gifts for the entire family, including your pet.
Perfect customer service. Some of you visiting might see some familiar faces.
Inside, the shop is well appointed, displaying a wide variety of home decor.
Having guests over and no time for baking pies? Say no more….A variety of pies that you can bake the night before are ready to go, as well. The Apple Brown Betty was delicious and so was the Chicken Pot Pie.
It is never too late to add something to your holiday shopping….maybe pamper yourself a little. Merry Christmas!!
April 10th, 2014
The window caught our attention as Jody and I strolled the Avenue…we were in Downtown Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. This store is quite big and it is full of fun stuff for the whole family.
It is called M Squared, located at 146 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Tel. 302-227-6626. Website? http://www.m2rehoboth.com.
Stop by because they have great prices. I love accessories and their earrings are all $12!!!
 
Open their website for online shopping. All the above earrings and others are all on the website.
I have friends that just had twins. I thought these were great.
And for the newlyweds, I thought this was a clever idea. Leave them your best wishes in a personal note.
The stores in Downtown Rehoboth Beach are getting ready for Summer 2014!!
Have a good one!!
December 9th, 2013
For me, shopping small and local has always been something that I have enjoyed. I have plenty of friends that love going “mall” shopping….not for me. I like that up close and personal kind of service. Which brings me to NEST, located at 11 South Main Street in Historic Berlin, Maryland. Tel. 410-629-1030.
Driving to Berlin from Rehoboth Beach, takes about half hour. No big deal, it is the Second Season so there is no traffic. Strolling a historic town, checking what’s new during the holidays is pretty nice, so Jody and I did just that.
I think Petey is really the Mayor of Historic Berlin. He is such a hard working little dog. I have featured him before and once again here he is…..greeting the customers and making sure that Dee gets up and gives us that personal attention we were looking for. Now, you tell me…where would you find something like this in a “mall”? You gotta love it!!
Dee has been quilting. Her remnants have become quilts. The reverse of the quilts is soft and warm.
Dee calls her handmade handbags Boppyowl. She offers 2 sizes and they are made with beautiful rich fabrics, lined with contrasting colors.
 
NEST is an eclectic and funky shop. Every time you shop, there are surprises; local artwork, jewelry, home accessories. At this time of the year the shop is fully stock. Berlin’s 2nd Friday Art Stroll will be on Friday, 12/14, so make sure you make NEST one of your stops.
NEST carries unwined candles from Unwined Candle Co., located in Sykesville, Maryland….from recycled wine bottles.
NEST opens year-round. Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Sunday from 12 until 4 p.m. You can find NEST on Facebook, as well.
Merry Christmas!!
 Bird Houses
December 6th, 2012
I was totally surprised to hear that people think Tulip is a garden center. For many years I lived in the town of Bethany Beach….that’s where Tulip is from. It was in town and always was a must stop shop in Bethany. A few years ago it moved to Rehoboth Beach. The store has a much bigger locale and plenty of parking.
Tulip is located at 29819 Highway One, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel. 302-226-2696. It is family owned. Website? http://www.tulipltd.com
The store was always known for its lighting. Today, Tulip offers furniture, accessories, and gifts.
It also has a really cute corner for children, with sweaters hand knitted in Rehoboth Beach. Gifts for babies and fun things for toddlers.
 
The store is full of neat ideas for the holidays. I found and actually, bought, the Corkcicle. On my picture, if you look to the left of the lamp you can spot it. It freezes and then it cools your wine from the inside out.
The Dazzler is a battery operated candle. It has a LED bulb technology, it lasts about 5 hours, and runs on 2-AA batteries.
 
Holiday and New Year’s decorative place mats, napkins and surprises.
 
The glass crab ornament caught my attention.
Besides having a room dedicated to Vera Bradley, they also carry Bosom Buddy Bags.
 
Tulip also carries gifts for every occasion.
 
For the women that enjoy jewelry, a line from Florida, completely handcrafted with organic elements, nickel and lead free…also hypoallergenic.
You can find even some even on sale.
The second floor offers furniture, lighting, art and home accessories.
 
Now that you know that Tulip is not a garden center, by all means, stop by. They are very helpful if you are somewhat clueless on what you would like to purchase for that person that has it all.
Talk to you later. Have a good one!!
March 8th, 2012
Symmetry – “An imprecise sense of harmonious or aesthetically pleasing, proportionately and balance; such that it reflects beauty or perfection.”
Part of the fun of visiting the Delaware Beaches is shopping. Downtown Rehoboth Beach is known for unique shops. Don’t get me wrong, we do have some t-shirt shops; all beach towns have them. That’s part of the charm, hmmm.
Anyway, my friend Jody and I were strolling around Rehoboth. We visited Dogfish Head, Heidi Lowe, and then we came upon Symmetry. I have to hand it to Jody. She knew this store well. The shopkeeper? Lee, was a friend. We did not think it was open yet, but Lee came out and invited us in.
Symmetry has been in Downtown Rehoboth Beach for years. It was originally located on Baltimore Ave. This is a new location for them. Just a few weeks ago they opened for business at 403 Rehoboth Avenue. Tel. 302-260-9741. E-mail symmetrydesigns@aol.com.
You cannot miss it. A shingled house with striped awning. Symmetry is a very stylish shop that carries primitive to contemporary home elements.
 
 
Lee was very excited to show us around. Floors refinished; plenty of merchandise and I thought they were ready for the season.
 Lee is behind the counter. Symmetry has accents for the modern house, and accessories to enhance one’s way of life. You will find furniture, decorative bowls, vases, lamps, art, and even jewelry.
 
 
We found that it was an affordable store, whether you were buying for yourself or for a friend.
Lee was very easy to talk to. And, so friendly. I always mention that friendliness is a characteristic of practically all shopkeepers in Downtown Rehoboth Beach.
I asked Lee if Symmetry offered interior design services. He said, yes. If you are interested, please visit the store or call him up.
He pointed out that the shop tries to engage local artists and artisans. They do have pieces from Delaware, Pennsylvania and even from Florida. Some of the textiles on the pillows are made by one of the oldest mills in the country, in Pennsylvania.
 
So here are more than a few pictures….let’s go shopping!!
 
 
 
 
Rehoboth Beach is a destination….why don’t you come and visit and stay awhile…talk to you later….Love Tax Free Shopping!!
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.
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….
|
Comments Off on Wharton’s, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Landscaping, Garden Center, Christmas Shop, Holiday Shopping, Trees, Wreaths, Gifts, Homemade Pies, The Holiday Spirit, Shopping Local, Southern Delaware