This spring, Annapolis Town Center welcomed Green & Bean Boutique, a slow-luxury shop for all your eco-friendly gifts and home goods. “Intentional” is the word we’d use when describing this curation of products. Ali Mulaga filled her store with brands that resonate with modern design and strong, sustainable integrity, providing that rare blend of products that look and do good.

How Green & Bean was created?
I’ve been making candles out of repurposed bottles and essential oils for the past couple of years and wanted to move away from the market space and into a brick-and-mortar, but I wanted to carry more than just candles. I still wanted to keep that same ethos of sustainability and eco-consciousness, so when I started looking around for products to sell, I was looking for brands that matched those values rather than specific product types. We knew what we wanted to do and what we wanted the space to become, and the opportunity to open in Annapolis came up.

How do you source Green & Bean products?
I have criteria in mind: The items must be beautiful, ethically sourced, and eco-conscious. It doesn’t really matter what the product is; it could be anything from kid’s stuff to hair accessories, a bag to a greeting card, so long as it matches the ethics of what we hold dear. I want to show a more design-driven side to sustainability. I feel like there’s an aesthetic associated with sustainable goods, and if that doesn’t match your personal style, then you might not really care to delve into the eco-friendly world that much. But from what I see and continue to find are sustainably made items that exist for any person of any style. And often, mindful ethics at the forefront can lead to better design.

What are some of your favorite brands you stock?
We have a vegan leather brand, Allégorie, where everything is made with apples and cactuses instead of animal or PVC leather, which is just plastic. They actually don’t do a lot of wholesale, but I reached out and told them what Green & Bean was about and asked if they would want to sell in the store, and they liked what we were doing enough. Leather literally made from plants is just incredible to me. Anchal is another brand. They’re a nonprofit, and all the money they make goes into financial, educational, and health benefits for the women who work for them in India. The textile goods they make are so beautiful. You can’t tell from looking at their products that they’re driven by sustainability and fair trade like there’s more substance the more you examine it. It’s nice to be able to tell people more about where the things they’re purchasing came from and show how good of an impact these brands can make.

What’s the story behind the name?
Gwyneth Paltrow said that names with a double letter always do better: GOOP is literally just her initials with a double “O” in the middle. I really just like green and everyone associates sustainability with green, right? My friend and I were saying names out loud, and Green & Bean sounded cute, fit the formula, and—green beans, it felt catchy and familiar enough.

Baltimore modiste Patrice Gentile is the one-woman dynamo behind the local fashion brand ALICEANNA. She makes her clothing in small batches, puts comfort and form before trends, and operates with ethical, eco-friendly material in a way that also leaves minimal waste. You might wonder, how does she do it all? We decided to ask.

How would you define ALICEANNA’s style?
I describe it as a wearable dessert. I make clothing that is playful and fun to wear, as well as structured and functional. You can wear the same ALICEANNA dress to the grocery store just as well as to a wedding.

Has ALICEANNA changed since you first launched in 2015?
Over the years, I’ve moved to a more sustainable method of production. I was sourcing new fabrics that were able to be reordered, but a few years ago, after educating myself on the toxic environmental effects of the fashion industry and its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, I switched to using deadstock and reclaimed fabric.

What is your creative process like?
Honestly, it’s all over the place. My head is full of design ideas, and my home is full of fabric. Fabric sourcing is my favorite part of the creative process, so that’s where I start. When I find great fabric, I usually know right away what I’m going to cut and sew it into. I’m thinking mainly two thoughts: Will my customer feel good wearing this design, in terms of the fit of the garment and quality of the fabric, and will this be fun to wear? On the surface, I’m selling clothing, but on a deeper level, I’m selling the feeling you get when you wear the clothing, and I want that feeling to be joy.

What could you wear for the rest of your life?
My go-to uniform lately has been a tiny top and wide-leg pants. I love a lot of volume and also have a newfound appreciation for my body after giving birth and finally feel comfortable showing it. A balance between the two is usually where I land. If we’re talking literally for the rest of my life, then bury me in straight-leg Levi’s and a white tank or button-down.

Tell me a little about your journey to Found Studio Shop. How did you get into art and then switch over to running your own business?
I’ve been making art since I was a teenager in the ’90s. I studied art education and became an art teacher for several years. I have always wanted to own a creative business, and when I was out of college and teaching, I continued to feel that pull. In 2006, I had an incredible opportunity to open what is now Trohv [then Red Tree] in Hampden with my husband and two other friends. I took that opportunity and helped run the shop for a few years until I decided to have children and stay home, producing my art in my home studio. Then I became involved with the Charm City Craft Mafia, helping with a wonderful team of makers to produce craft fairs.

When did you know it was time to open your store?
I wasn’t sure that I would ever own another shop. Balancing a shop plus all the things—helping produce the craft fairs, making my work, and raising two now elementary-aged kids—seemed like a bit much. However, last January, I was approached by Josie Rhodes, one of the owners of Red Canoe Café, about the possibility of creating a “tiny shop” within the café. It seemed to me like the perfect scenario: a tiny shop in my favorite café, three minutes from my house. It all fell together, and I couldn’t refuse.

Found Studio Shop is located in Lauraville. How has running a store in an up-and-coming neighborhood—as opposed to being in Hampden, which is such a shopping hub—been different?
It’s been different for sure. Of course, I don’t have an amazing amount of foot traffic in Lauraville. However, Lauraville and the surrounding northeast Baltimore neighborhoods have been extremely supportive and are intentional about shopping locally. Lauraville is starting to make a name for itself, and several new retail businesses and restaurants are popping up along the Harford Road corridor.

A block away is Domesticity Fabric & Craft Studio, which is the perfect complement to my shop. We have many of the same customers. The owner Christina Brunyate has many people finding her shop weekly. People come to her, she sends them down to me and the café, or people find me, and I send them to her. I think all of us—business owners and residents alike—want to make sure that we are all successful and send business to each other. Plus, this is where I have lived and owned a house for the past 15 years. There’s nothing like living and working in your own community.

How do you choose what products to sell at Found Studio Shop?
I tell people all the time that, because of the size of my shop, I really have to choose cohesive products that display well together. Most, but certainly not all, of the products I sell are locally and regionally made. I am paying attention to our carbon footprint. Most of these products have not traveled far. Many of the artists that sell in my shop could easily walk from their homes and studios. It goes without saying that high quality “crafts-womanship,” beauty, purpose, and a reasonable price point also go into my decision of whether or not to choose a product. I have to love the product myself, or I won’t feel comfortable selling it.

What is your favorite product at the moment?
That’s a really tough question because I love everything I sell. One of my favorite items right now is Hon’s Honey Lip Balm, if I must pick one. I give one to everyone who works at the shop and everyone I want to give a little “I’m thinking of you” gift. Hon’s Honey supports women survivors in South Baltimore, helping them get back on their feet through job training and intentional community. An excellent product and mission? You can’t beat that.

What does the future look like for Found Studio?
We are coming up on our first anniversary in April, and I want to launch an online shop by then. Workshops are in the works for this year. Many people are asking for them, and as a trained art teacher, I do actually love teaching and gathering with others who are open to learning something new. I hope to host not only my own workshops, but other workshops in many other creative genres, as well.

Baltimore is booming with creative entrepreneurs, but when it comes to sporting goods, This Sporting Life has become a go-to. Known for his use of traditional chainstitch embroidery, designer Arvay Adams hand-makes Baltimore Orioles and Ravens gear, updates heritage vintage baseball jerseys, and even sells funky patches—which are all available in local shops such as For Rent Shoes and Doubledutch Boutique, as well as directly from his online shop. On the heels of being named one of the winner’s of the 2019 Remington Storefront Challenge, we caught up with Adams about what inspires his designs and what we can expect from the up-and-coming shop.

You have a degree in painting from MICA. How did you get into sewing?
I started sewing on a home machine, then later, after moving back to Baltimore, I worked for Sewlab, where I learned industrial sewing.

What inspired you to get into sports goods?
It’s been an interest of mine since I was a kid. The colors, designs, and history.

You’ve lived in the big creative cities including New York City and Los Angeles, what about Baltimore drew you in and convinced you to stay?
Baltimore is home. I just got tired of being a transplant in a city full of them.

How did you know that creating with chainstitch was going to be your next career move?
As a fan of the history of the sports uniform, it had to happen. Chainstitch was the way to adorn sports uniforms, workwear, and military clothing for years.

You use an 80-year-old Singer 114-W. Why this machine? Is there any other equipment like this machine that you swear by?
It’s the Cadillac of Chainstitch Embroidery machines. The machines are rare, and each has their temperaments. It really adds to a handmade feel in a time where the term is used loosely. All my other machines are replaceable—they’re new, computerized, a-dime-a-dozen stuff.

What are some of your favorite pieces to make. Are they some of your top sellers?
My favorite is whatever new thing I’ve discovered to make. The best-sellers, though, are the Bethlehem Steel pieces.

Where do you get your design inspiration?
Mostly old magazines, books, documentaries, and the internet.

Some of your items are totally new with your designs, but some of your products are vintage. Where did vintage clothing find its way into This Sporting Life?
The vintage started with me growing out of some of my own pieces of vintage. Vintage also allows me to present brands and/or teams that people are familiar with that part of my aesthetic.

Do you have a favorite sport?
Baseball. I have a romantic obsession with it from design to history, to the human form in action.

Are there any new projects in the works for This Sporting Life?
Lots and lots of chainstitching with a strong focus on Baltimore’s Blue Collar roots. Plus, a retail location in Remington with The Cahoots Brothers coming soon.

In 2003, Holly and Jeff Kaufman, the owners of Great Sage and The Roots Market, added yet another ethically sourced business to Conscious Corner—their eco-friendly retail cluster in Clarksville. Throughout the years, earth-friendly clothing and gift shop Nest Natural Home has offered a cozy environment for consumers to learn about eco-friendly, vegan, and fair trade products. At the female-run boutique, every item has a story. In fact, many of the pieces are handpicked creations by female, local, and small-batch artists. “We’re really excited that people are shopping with consciousness, care, and concern,” says manager and buyer Jenny Glazier.

We chatted with Glazier and assistant manager and buyer Tanya Zirbel to learn more about Nest’s products, packaging, and sustainable mantra.

What makes your product line unique?
Tanya Zirbel: Everything here is ethically sourced, and the energy that is in each piece is the positive energy coming from all our different artists. People feel that when they come into the store. So they are consuming, but they also come to be in a space where they can see beautiful handmade items—and where they know they’re making a difference with their purchases.

What is your favorite item currently in the store?
Jenny Glazier: We’re a lifestyle store, so that’s a hard question because we have everything from organic cotton wraps, to wooden bowls that you can display in your home, to clothing, to baby items. We also have some beautiful olive wood pieces for around the house and wooden cutting boards. We handpick everything, so I can say there’s love in every single piece in the store.

How does packaging play a role in your sustainable mission?
JG: We do love to gift wrap here, but it’s all recyclable material. Most of the companies that we work with are sustainable, so anything that comes in is usually recyclable. They’re on the same idea path as we are.

What’s one thing no home is complete without?
JG: Some of our soy-based vegetable oil candles are incredible, and they just make for such a nurturing environment. Our incense are also very warm and loving. I guess that’s a big one because a lot of people come in, and the first thing they say is, “It smells so good in here!” To have your home smell beautiful and know it’s ethically sourced is pretty nice.

What’s one thing no outfit is complete without?
JG: Some of our organic cotton basics.

TZ: Our main clothing lines are Toad and Co. and Prana, and they are major players in the sustainable clothing movement. They used to focus on was more activewear, but they’re transitioning to stylish pieces that are also ethically sourced. No outfit is really complete without a sustainable piece that makes you feel good about what you’re wearing.

Is there a motto that you live by?
TZ: Something we’ve been talking about amongst ourselves lately, is how a lot of people are coming here to find some joy. So, just living in your joy and doing what you can to live consciously.

What upcoming events can shoppers look forward to at Nest?
JG: We are having our annual Vegan Fest on July 20. There will be two local authors here that day. One [Rebecca Gilbert] has a beginner’s guide to becoming vegan, and the other [Rissa Miller], is an amazing animal advocate and poet. She’s going to be here doing a poetry reading from her book Vegan Tales. The Vegan Fest is going to be a huge event, not just with book signings, but also with trunk shows and a guided meditation.

As female managers, what message do you have for young female entrepreneurs?
JG: I have a 17-year-old daughter, and I really think that at this point we’re learning from them. We need to take a step back and listen, because they have a lot of important things to say.

TZ: Right now, women are all about supporting women. We had a get-together with some folks that are friends of the store, and we realized there were five decades of women around us at one point. So, it’s just about sharing knowledge up and down and across in different areas. Finding women who you feel comfortable with and support you in all of your endeavors is important.

Inspired by history and her grandmother’s love of crystals, Rachel King created eco-friendly, all-natural, and ethically sourced crystal jewelry brand Eaarthbones. After studying photography in school, King transformed her self-taught hobby into a thriving online business with products now available in local retails like A Keeper’s Vintage. We sat down with King to talk about the inspiration behind her jewelry and the future of her Baltimore-based brand.

How did you come up with the name Eaarthbones?
So Eaarthbones is kind of a take on crystals being bones of our earth, of our world. The two a’s are from a book by Bill McKibben and it talks about how the earth is not what it used to be, but the earth that we have now we should definitely protect and cherish and treat with respect. That is a big pillar for Eaarthbones. I work with all ethically sourced materials, a lot of up-cycled materials, all vegan—so I really wanted all of my jewelry to be sustainable as well as beautiful.

Why did you choose to start an eco-friendly business?
There is so much waste already out there and there are so many things that we don’t even use as human beings that I didn’t want to contribute to it. I only wanted to enhance our knowledge of the earth. So the crystals definitely teach us about the earth and ourselves. I wanted the materials I used to go hand-in-hand with that.

How do you go about choosing the crystals for your jewelry?
I get all of my crystals from other small businesses that I know in the United States. Each step along that process is really important. I kind of devise a plan for the crystals that I want to use and the colors that are in season or that reflect my collection styles. Then I just make sure that they’re from different sources that I know they are ethically sourcing them.

What is your favorite thing about being an entrepreneur in Baltimore?
There’s so many people doing pretty much exactly what I’m doing, like working full-time plus being an entrepreneur plus having their business. Some months are slower than others and just everyone is so determined and willing to help each other.

What is your go-to jewelry piece?
I love wearing my Maura Hoops. I wear those pretty much every day. They’re super lightweight. The hoops I’ve been making since I started so they’re also near and dear to my heart.

How long does it typically take to make a piece of jewelry?
It depends on how many times I’ve made it before and how intricate it is. The intricate, wire-wrapped pieces, those could take up to two hours. There are some pieces I’ve been making for years, like hoops or rings, that really take me about five minutes. It’s really the practice of doing it over and over again—some of it has really becomes second-nature to me.

Where do you draw inspiration for your jewelry?
I make collections. Like last fall, I had the talisman collection, which is all very inspired by different cultures and talismans throughout history. I had a siren collection where each piece was named after a different mermaid throughout history. So a lot of history and mythology really inspires my work.

What does the future for Eaarthbones look like?
I would love to one day have my shop on wheels so I could move around. I don’t necessarily like the idea of a brick and mortar because I feel really tied down. I have a studio up in Cockeysville, so just making that more available for people to come and enjoy my work and making that my shop would be really cool.

I just dropped a spring collection, which was very inspired by the moon and the stars. So it was a lot of really big crystals, a lot of 14K and sterling silver wire. I’m hoping to my brand gets a little more upgraded with each collection.

Searching for the perfect gift or a little something to bring the life to a party can be a stressful task, but pop over to Canton Square and find the one-stop gift shop that’ll be sure to ease your gift shopping angst. Best Day Ever is a gift shop full of unforgettable trinkets for every special occasion. We sat down with owner Morgan Chapin to chat about how the Maine native is embracing Baltimore, her favorite items in the store, and what it’s like running a small business.

How did Best Day Ever get its start?
I decided to move to Maryland with my friends, and I wanted a career change—it was either change your career now or don’t ever do it. I always wanted to open up a retail store, and I was going to tons of baby showers, weddings, and housewarmings, so that’s kind of where the idea of having different sections came from.

Shopping for other people can be tricky! What is one tip you could give to people shopping for unique gifts?
You know your friends better than you think you do. I say, don’t over think it either; you know your friends, don’t stress about it.

If someone was from out of town, what’s one Baltimore gift you’d want them to leave with?
It’s always nice to support local people when you can. I have these Boh wall hangings done by a local artist, The Painted Mermaid. I also have coasters that are pretty cool. They’re only $4 each, and you can mix and match them. They’re easy to fit in your suitcase and not breakable.

What gifts are quick and easy but still thoughtful and personal?
People always come in and get alcohol-related gifts. I have wine straws that are also cards or lots of wine glasses with funny sayings. I think a card can make a big difference in someone’s day.

What’s it like running a small business in Baltimore City?
I think it’s exciting. You get to meet so many interesting people, and you can really make people’s day when they find the perfect gift.

Since you should never arrive at a party empty-handed, what is your favorite go-to gift?
B.Willow just opened a location in Canton, so we’ve been into planters a lot. Not only can you get a planter here, but you can also get it planted at B.Willow—so you’re supporting another business. Plus, with all this rain, something green and nice can brighten up your day.

What would you say sets Best Day Ever apart from the average gift store?
It’s a one-stop shop. If you have a wedding to go to, a baby shower, and a housewarming, you can come here and get it all done in one shop. I also try to keep our prices reasonable and fair. I have some more expensive items, but I do also have a lot of things that I think are pretty affordable for anyone’s budget.

Summer is fast approaching! What are some backyard barbecue essentials?
I am obsessed with this personally, but I have this “Lets Day Drink” drink dispenser. I always think it’s fun to drink out of fun cups, too. I had a mug that said “Let’s keep things professional,” so drinking from a mug for day drinking. I also just got in a “Get Your Buns Ready” platter for a barbecue. And I’m all about the cozies as well, we have one that’s insulated so if you put it in the freezer it keeps it a little extra cool.

What has been the most fun part about running Best Day Ever?
I love shopping, so I think buying for the store is the best part and, really, meeting other people. There’s always something going on. Everyone who comes in always gives recommendations on places to go and things to do.

It’s Malacka in Charles Village is a one-stop-shop for fun, flirty, and bold fashion pieces that are sure to make a statement. Malacka Reed started her career as a makeup artist and has become motivational speaker, author, and style icon. We caught up with the Baltimore native in an exclusive interview to peak into her life as a boutique owner and a source of inspiration for her 200,000+ Instagram followers. Learn about her sense of style, her favorite trends, and how she inspires in-store and online customers.

How would you describe the style of your store?
My store is a boutique so it’s not what I would call one-of-a-kind pieces, but very different pieces. I like to cater to women of all sizes and all ethnicities. Even women of the Muslim faith shop with us for our oversized dress collection, which is super dope. We’re a boutique that’s really into fun, effortless fashion.

What are your favorite fashion and makeup trends currently?
I love the oversized collection we carry and that women are feeling comfortable wearing oversized dresses, sundresses, and don’t always need to have on something that’s body-con to feel sexy. I also love that people are being a bit more free with their style of dress now. People are really dressing for themselves and not just following a trend.

We’re kind of moving away from wearing eyeshadow. We’re into the fresh dewy or matte face. I love that the eyebrows are coming down again, we’re moving back into the natural brow.

What was your inspiration for opening up your own store?
I really needed to do it! I started as a makeup artist, then I came out with my own cosmetic line and I moved into the fashion industry. In the middle of all of that, I became an author and a motivational speaker. So it was important that I opened up my own space to be with my customers and make sure I inspire and uplift them from the inside out.

What do you love about having a store in Baltimore?
Baltimore has truly made me who am. I feel like if you can make it in Baltimore, you can make it anywhere. I love that we’re raising the frequency here in our city, more positive women are opening businesses, and we’re also giving back to our community.

What kinds of trends or styles can we find in your store?
A little bit of everything. You’re gonna find bodysuits, rompers, sequins, feathers, pearls, ballroom skirts, high-waist pants, or even low-rise.

How has social media played a role in expanding your business?
I love my followers to the moon and back. Social media plays a big role because you get to put your clothes on and show how people can look in them! If it wasn’t for social media, I could honestly say that my business would not be what it is.

Tell me about the makeup section of your store.
Skai Ryan cosmetics is the name of my makeup line and has been around for about 10 years now. Right now, we are re-launching our makeup because we kind of moved away from it when we opened the store. It was important to raise the fashion baby and let people take us seriously there.

How do you like to start your day before coming to the studio?
Well, I have a 10-year-old daughter, so I make sure she’s ready then I go into a meditation. The most important thing is prayer and meditation. When I pray, I’m talking to God and when I meditate, I’m listening to God.

What is your go-to outfit and makeup look for everyday wear?
Leggings! For me, when I get to work, I have to put on the clothes and model them! I’ve found it crazy for me to get all dolled up, come into work, and then I’ve got to get undressed.

On another level, a cute off-the-shoulder blouse, oversized dress, or high-waist jeans and a bodysuit.

Our Top Picks:

At Bottle of Bread, Morissa Rothman-Pierce has curated a to-die-for collection. While vintage fashion for women and men takes center stage, the shop’s wares are rounded out by a thoughtful selection of handmade items for the home and body.

Whether you’re looking for a showstopping dress for your next event, classic denim for hot summer days, or the finishing pieces to pull it all together, Rothman-Pierce has got you covered.

We were able to catch up with the most stylish woman in Baltimore and talk about her origins, how far she’s come in ten years in business, and the Baltimore Vintage Expo.

What is Bottle of Bread’s origin story?
I started selling vintage when I was 16 years old. My best friend’s mother owned a vintage shop in the ’80s, so when we were kids, we’d play dress up. I’ve just always loved it. I started buying and selling on Etsy in 2008, so it’s been ten years.

I had always wanted to open up a shop, and when I graduated college, I just did it. My first shop was in Fells Point—it was super tiny, but it allowed me to grow. I moved up here to Mt. Vernon in a storefront across the street, and then moved to the current space about two years ago.

What do you love about where you are now?
I’m a freak for natural light, and this space has these two giant bay windows. Plus, I’m on the sunny side of the street, so it’s a double whammy of gorgeous light. The space is a lot larger, and it’s a really cool old building. Tin ceilings, the whole thing.

What’s the best thing about running a small business in Baltimore?
It’s really cool to be a part of a city that is up and coming in a lot of ways. There’s a lot of support, and everything is owned by young people. So many people I know own businesses, nonprofits, venues, everything. It’s empowering to be around a bunch of young people who are doing the damn thing.

What are some of your biggest style inspirations?
I love old Western wear. And I love all the androgynous style of the ’30s and ’40s, like great tailored suits worn by women. Marlene Dietrich and Patti Smith both have that masculine woman sort of style I really love.

How do you source the vintage in your shop?
I handpick everything. I do a lot of house calls, I do in-store buys, and I shop when I travel. I actually just got back from a trip to Memphis, Tennessee, and shopped along the way.

You have such a unique collection of items for the home and body, as well as vintage. What is your criteria like for adding new products to the shop?
My only criteria is that I have to like it. There’s an old school and a new school when it comes to vintage. Old school are those wild spots where you walk in and there’s clothes, ceiling to floor, all time periods and styles.

There are a lot of places around here like that, and as much as I respect that and it’s totally rad, what I do is different. It’s curated. There are plenty of things I know I could sell the heck out of, but I don’t carry them. I’m pretty specific, and I think that that shows in what I have. It’s not for everyone, but I think people enjoy that it’s not a hodgepodge.

How did the Baltimore Vintage Expo come to be?
The Baltimore Vintage Expo is an event I put on along with the women who own Milk & Ice Vintage, Kate and Angie. We felt there was no good, purely vintage show in Baltimore, and the idea behind it was sort of a “by the people, for the people” event. We’ve all done so many shows over the years, and there’s always some issue, like when the organizers aren’t ready for you, or the space is a foot shorter than they told you it would be.

So we decided to put together an event run by the vendors, and it’s been great. Kate and Angie and I all run the show, as well as have our own booths with our stuff for sale. We encourage our vendors to bring the best of the best, so there’s a lot of really amazing stuff. Designer vintage, cool older stuff.

Is there anything new this year to look out for at the Expo?
Last year, we had denim repair by Kristi of Fischer Clothing Company, and she’ll be back this year. You can bring your jeans that are thrashed, and she’ll fix them up on site. We also have the Bushelers of Baltimore, super professional tailors, doing onsite tailoring.

Vintage is so often a one-of-a-kind, amazing piece, but that maybe doesn’t fit so well, so you can get those pieces perfectly fit to you on the spot. Arvay Adams of This Sporting Life will be there as well, doing custom chain stitching. You can come find an amazing vintage piece, get it tailored perfectly to you, and then have it customized. It’s a one-stop shop!

Also, this year we have early bird tickets available for purchase for people who want to get in and shop 9-11 a.m., before it’s open to the public for free.

What trends do you see being big for summer 2018?
The minimalist thing has been really big recently—long, flowy linen and silk dresses. I also see psychedelic ’60s prints coming back, which is great because I love that psychedelic stuff. Denim, always, I mean cutoffs will always be in style. Also patchwork is coming back, especially that really ’60s madras patchwork plaid.

And people will be able to find all those things at the Vintage Expo on May 19?
Heck yeah, they will! Right now, all the vendors are hoarding our best stuff specifically for the Expo, so we are going to be bringing out all the spring and summer trends.

Our top picks:

With more than 50,000 followers on Instagram, Dayna Bolden documents her day-to-day life for the masses leaving us feeling completely inspired. From fashion and beauty to travel and family, she has all of the bases covered and offers heartfelt advice, aspirational goals, and attainable fashion tips and tricks in a truly genuine way. We caught up with Bolden to talk about how she got started blogging, adventures in motherhood, and where she likes to shop in Baltimore.

What made you want to start blogging?
I really wanted to create a platform for myself where I could share my lifestyle as an entrepreneur, a mother, a wife, and just document all of the things I love. 

How is being a mother impacted your posts?
I love showing my readers the beauty of motherhood and how I am still able to follow my dreams, while still being an amazing mother. I feel that a lot of women feel that once they become mothers and have another little life to take care of, that everything else has to stop and that is definitely not the case. I believe that being a blogger mom also really inspires my daughter to know that she can do what she loves as she gets older. 

Where do you love to shop in Baltimore?
I love Brightside Boutique—they have amazing clothes and great quality stuff. I also recently discovered another cute store called Poppy and Stella, I haven’t had the time to shop there as much as I would like too but I’m definitely planning on it. There is also an online clothing company I really love called Mess in a Bottle, sadly there so no real store yet, but my friend owns the company and she sells really cute t-shirts online. Those are probably my go-to places in Baltimore.

What do you like to do outside of your blog?

I’m an entrepreneur. I own a business called Bolden Creative Media, where I brand consult and work with brands on creative directing, functions, and strategies. I also love spending time with my family and traveling. I don’t have a lot of hobbies because blogging was always my hobby when I was younger and I turned that into a full-time career. 

Any style tips for the summer?
I love a cute dress, and I feel that you can never go wrong with a maxi dress. The perfect maxi is always going to look chic and is really easy to dress up or down. Also a nice pair of shorts, that aren’t too short. I don’t like super tight or super short shorts, but a nice fitted pair of shorts are essential for your summer wardrobe. 

What is your go-to outfit?
My everyday go-to outfit right now is sweats, a cute T-shirt, and just pairing that with some sneakers. But If I’m actually going somewhere and need to look cute, I love nice tapered pants, a cute blouse, and a statement heel as my go-to.

Remember Home on the Harbor? Well, now the Key Highway home of interior design goals is bigger and better than ever before. After undergoing a rebrand and redesign in 2016, Design Distillery was born. The new expanded space features even more modern design inspiration, curated vignettes, and a free Skee-Ball machine. We talked with owner, Karen Graveline and her design dream team—Seth Kaiser, Pearl Laaveg, and Erin Friedel—about the new and improved store, current trends, and guilty pleasures.

If you could describe Design Distillery in one sentence what would it be?

Karen Graveline: It’s the place you come to find a piece that you connect with and can live with.

What does Design Distillery specialize in?

KG: So our collection is based on the idea of modernism. Clean, simple, and classic designs and we really try to offer items for an urban space, whether it’s a big loft or a tiny row home, we have things that fit.

Why did you change your name?

KG: Home on the Harbor was established 15 years ago and it was a much different store during a much different time. We were selling mainly vintage and we were in a very small space, so when we were able to expand our space, we thought it was a good time to rebrand and really choose a name that fits us better for what we do now. Design Distillery still captures what Home on the Harbor started, which is finding really good designs and distilling it down to the best that is out there and staying really curated.

What do you think sets Design Distillery apart from other businesses?

KG: It’s a fun atmosphere—we are trying to keep furniture shopping fun. I also think it’s about the way we help people. We are more so a coach and want them to really be a part of the design process and make the design their own. And we have Skee-Ball.

If you could have one super power, what would it be?

Erin Friedel: We could move things without lifting them.

Seth Kaiser: Telepathy. The ability to move furniture with your mind—Jean Gray style. That would make floor sets so much easier.

Pearl Laaveg: I’d fly. I know that’s not original but how fun.

SK: As long as it has a good costume change, I don’t really care what the super power is.

Who is your interior design hero?

KG: A source we go to a lot is Dwell magazine. It’s just very inspirational. But I think more of our heroes are furniture designers like Patricia Urquiola. We think she is amazing and there’s not too many women at that level so she is kind of my design hero.

SK: One of my favorite blogs that I continue to return to is desiretoinspire.net, they run the gamut on styles but they always have really refined photography that is really modern but original.

What is your favorite item currently in store?

KG: It’s on its way! The velvet womb chair by Knoll. It’s a classic design, I have one in my house, and I love it. We are getting it in this teal velvet.

EF: I would say the Saarinen dining table because it’s so iconic and you could put it in any kind of home and make it work.

PL: I sat on the Eilerson Plano sofa recently and I wanted to move in. Like, I actually got busted by a customer as I was saying, ‘I want to live here.’

SK: I was going to say the same thing! That sofa is awesome. It’s different than a lot of things on the market. It’s really been drawing people in and is insanely comfortable.

What is your favorite home decor trend right now?

SK: Dark, saturated walls. I’m still really vibing on the really dark charcoal walls and then pops of pink and a really light or bleached oak wood. Those things combined create something really beautiful for me right now.

KG: I’m always drawn to the Scandinavian aesthetic, the light wood hues and soft colors. Old spaces with more modern furniture.

What’s the most embarrassing trend that you used to love?

KG: It was, I guess, the early 2000s, and I liked the chocolate brown and avocado or lime green. There was also the orange and chocolate thing and I think I bought a bunch of orange at that time. So that’s one thing I don’t want to see right now.

SK: I used to like the really heavy industrial stuff when I got into this industry and that’s definitely faded. But it’s all going to come back and get us, right?

What is your guilty pleasure?

PL: Glitter!

SK: Ru Paul’s Drag Race.

KG: Chocolate.

EF: That’s mine, too!

Fans of the late vintage store Killer Trash, fear not. The beloved Broadway shop was taken over by Jamie Sapia and Bill Holzerland, who renamed it Glitter Rat in September 2017. While there were some slight changes made, you can still count on Glitter Rat to bring you the best in vintage with both costume and everyday options to keep your wardrobe nice and quirky. We talked to Bill and Jamie about the store, their style icons, and least favorite trends.

How did you come up with the name Glitter Rat?
Bill: We kicked some discrete ideas around and then tried to associate them with Baltimore. And so the harbor thing and the rodents, but like a playful take on it. That was sort of where we decided to go with it.

Jamie: It’s like “pack rat,” but with glitter! And that sort of encompasses Baltimore street style because you can get away with so many ostentatious outfits. Like you could wear a full-blown glitter anything in Baltimore, so I feel like our name kind of encompasses Baltimore style and what we are.

If your store had a Tinder bio, what would it read?
J: All about fun! I mean it’s all about fun, right?

B: Sparkles, shiny things. ­Yeah there’s a lot of fun energy in here. When people walk in the door for the first time, it seems like they’re sort of overwhelmed by the amount of light shining off of all of the fabrics in here—but in a good way. So we do always tell folks to have fun.

J: It would be, “For a good time, call Glitter Rat.” That would be the bio.

B: Like in a men’s room stall or something.

J: In Cat’s Eye Pub!

What era is most of your vintage fashion from?

J: ’70s, ’80s, ’90s. We really have a little bit of everything. We have a pretty good mix. I gravitate more towards the ’70s because that’s my favorite era. But if it’s vintage, and I like it, I buy it.

How do you get items for the store?
J: I hand pick it now, but we get stuff from everywhere. We have people that come in sometimes with bags and bags of stuff and they’ll say like “Oh my grandmother passed away, I’m cleaning out her house.” And a lot of people will have stories when they bring their stuff in. We actually had one person come in and it was very flattering actually, she said “We’re cleaning out my grandmother’s house and my dad just passed away and when he was alive he always said that he wanted his mother’s stuff to go to Killer Trash, we’re so glad you’ve taken it over.” So people sell but I hand pick everything. We do estate sales. Thrift stores. Yard sales. Flea Markets. We go up and down the coast. My parents pick a lot of it too, down in Florida.

No outfit is complete without what?
J: Leopard print. Or fringe. Or sequins! My gosh, I don’t know. There’s so many good things.

B: I think the answer would be a little bit different for me. The right pocket square and a great vintage watch. As a guy, that’s kind of it.

J: Or you could just say confidence, because that could work for both.

Who is your style icon?
J: Rick James and Janis Joplin.

B: I love a lot of the classic stuff like Steve McQueen, David Bowie, Mick Jagger.

What is your favorite trend as of late? Least favorite?
J: Wide leg pants are in again, right? I don’t like the drab ’90s stuff people are doing. Totally can’t get with it. But we have some in store because we know some people love it.

What is the best part about owning a shop in Baltimore?
J: The people. Totally the people. It’s great, it’s social, it’s fun. I love Baltimore.

B: Yeah, we’ve met fabulous characters here. Musicians, artists, people with office jobs, all walks of life who had been shopping in this store when it was Killer Trash and are happy that we’re here. And we love hearing their stories. We have a poster hanging behind the cash register area that was given to Killer Trash by a gentleman who comes in all the time, he’s a musician and this poster came from Bowie’s studio in Chelsea. So yeah definitely, the people and their stories.

Our top picks:

New year, new you, new haircut? If it’s nearing that time for your next trim you may want to check out the latest salon to open in Catonsville. Ash and Oak opened last February and specializes in sustainable beauty services and products. They offer everything from haircuts and color to waxing, eyelash extensions, and organic spray tans. 

The space is bright and beautiful, offering an instant feeling of relaxation and is decked out with displays of Davines hair care products and Little Shop of Oils candles, body oils, and room sprays. You also can’t help but notice that everyone working in the salon has great hair, which I believe to be an early predictor for how your hair will turn out. (Like I said…instant relaxation.) We talked to the salon’s owner, Amanda Hancock, about the inspiration for the space, its name, and her guilty pleasure. 

What made you want to open your own salon?
I had been behind the chair for almost a decade and had sort of reached a creative plateau. When you work in a salon for someone else, even though your work is your own, you are following someone else’s vision. I wanted to have complete control over my creative vision, as well as the experience my clients had while they spent time with me. 

How did you come up with the name?
I really spent hours trying to find the right name. Ultimately, I read an article in a business magazine that helped guide me. It said that the best way to name a business in 2017 was to take two short words that described your space or your mission and put an ampersand between them. My vision for my space was always grey, white, and wood. Ash for the grey and white, and oak for the wood accents. It also worked well because my business has a very strong focus on sustainability. 

What makes Ash and Oak different from other salons?
Our dedication to the environment and our impact. I wanted to be able to have a place that delivered exceptional services that left you feeling good about your look, but that also allowed you to feel good about the impact you left on the world around you. In the 10 years I have been behind the chair, Ash and Oak is the very first salon that I’ve worked at that recycles every single scrap of paper, cardboard and plastic that we consume and we are also in the process of becoming a green circle salon. We also have programs in place that allow clients to refill their empty shampoo and conditioner for a discounted price. 

Why did you choose to open in Catonsville?
Frederick Road is such a cool little gem of an area. I think there is a definitely a demand for more upscale businesses here. 

What is your favorite hair trend currently? Least favorite hair trend?
I’m super into Balayage bobs. I know that they are kind of played out and basic, but the longer something gets played out the more time you have as a stylist to really perfect it. My least favorite trend is probably fashion tones and vivid color. I love doing them, but their longevity just kills me. 

What is your favorite hair product that you couldn’t live without?
Davines Dry Texture Spray.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Candy crush. Yes, I am still playing Candy Crush. 

Who would you say is your style icon?
Joan Jett. 

If you’re on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would they be?
My son is a given, right? My bed, lavender essential oil, and a hair tie. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be?
Tahiti. 

The latest addition to Hampden’s burgeoning retail row has arrived. Opened in August by Brittany Parry, White Fox Boutique is stocked with women’s contemporary apparel and accessories and is ideal for all of the fashion magazine hoarders and trend obsessed. Located on The Avenue—in the same block as The Food Market and Doubledutch Boutique—the store is flooded with cute jumpsuits, denim, and dresses for any occasion. We talked to Parry about the inspiration behind the store, her favorite spots in the city, and her style icons.

What was the inspiration behind starting your own store? 
Ever since I could remember I wanted to open my own boutique. I’ve always searched for spaces throughout the years, but nothing really felt right. I’ve lived in the Hampden neighborhood for almost five years now and once I saw this space, it just felt right. The size, location, everything—it all fell into place.

How did you come up with the name White Fox?
White Fox is named after my dog. She is a Pomeranian mix. I’m pretty sure she has some American Eskimo in her too, but everyone would say, “Oh, she looks like a little white fox.” I’ve had her for about 10 years but sadly, I had to put her down a month before the store opened. She lives on through the store. She used to travel with me everywhere. For the grand opening I partnered with BARCS, and gave some of the proceeds towards their charity. I hope to do that throughout the years. It’s all about giving back.

How would you describe White Fox in one sentence?   
It’s like shopping in your best friend’s closet—no matter what your style is, you’ll be able to find something.

Where is your favorite hangout spot in the city?  
Hampden! The Food Market is great, Frazier’s On the Avenue, and Zissimos, which is next door to us is amazing! It’s all local people and they’re down to earth, you can just go in there and watch the Ravens game and chill.

The best thing about Hampden? 

The people. I know I’m the new kid on the block, but so many people have stopped by, introduced themselves, helped me when I needed things from sweeping the front to helping hang things. Everyone has been very neighborly, which is amazing. In a neighborhood like this, where there are a lot of small businesses, I feel like they could have been very catty and stand offish towards me, but I can tell they really want me to succeed in the neighborhood.

Who is your style inspiration?  

I really love Shay Mitchell. Mary-Kate and Ashley, of course, because they’re so cool, and Twiggy back in the day.

What is your favorite fashion trend right now? What is your least? 

My favorite fashion trend right now is probably bell sleeves and my least favorite is tassel earrings. I know everyone loves them and we’ve had a few smaller ones in the store, but it’s just something I can’t get behind.

No outfit is complete without . . . ?  
A good handbag.

What is the last thing that you splurged on?  

This store! I haven’t bought anything since I got the store.

How does White Fox differ from other stores? 
It is a place that is on top of the trends, and encouraging people to try them. I want to have pieces that are unique to the store. People are more conscious about what they are spending their money on, and if something is a little different, I feel like they’ll be willing to spend a little extra to get something for themselves.   

Our top picks:

What started as a solution to her newborn daughter’s extreme discomfort has turned into an adorable and functional baby clothing brand. Natalie Feild created and nurtured Softsie as it has grown from its roots in Baltimore to reaching families worldwide. Even celebrities like Katherine Heigl and Kim Richards have dressed their little ones in these cooling-infused onesies. We sat down with Natalie to learn more about the growing brand.

How was Softsie created?
Natalie Feild:I was on maternity leave in the Fall of 2014 with my first daughter. She was about six or seven months old and developed severe eczema. It got infected and was only getting worse. One day I was putting lotion on her and I thought to myself, “I wish this lotion was just in your clothes.” I wondered if anything like that was on the market. When I found out there wasn’t, I set out to create it myself.

What makes the fabric unique?
NF: The fabric is incredibly soft and organically infused with aloe vera, jojoba oil, and Vitamin E. The ingredients are deeply embedded into the yarns of the fabric and only released when touched by human skin. It offers comfort, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties so it gently nourishes and protects babies’ skin and it’s made right here in the U.S.

What do you enjoy most about owning Softsie?
NF: The fact that this all started with my own daughter and that I could bring her some comfort and happiness when she was struggling. Now I get to bring that to so many other little ones and families, it fuels my passion to grow this business. 

Where do you see Softsie headed? Any new designs or products in the works?
NF: Right now I’m working on a new print for the holidays that will be launching this fall. I have so many other ideas for new products like sheets, socks, and larger sizes—even sizes for adults.

How did you come up with the patterns?
NF: I knew I wanted to have gender neutral patterns and colors that are modern, different, and fun, not the typical baby blue and baby pink. In terms of print, the first few came to me while doodling. I was at a restaurant drawing these sketched stars and I took a picture of it and sent it to the fabric mill. That was the birth of that print.

Did you always know you wanted to start a clothing brand?
NF: I have vivid memories of being a little girl and dreaming of starting my own business.I knew that I would only start a business if it were the right time and the right idea. At first, it was initially to help my daughter but then it organically grew into this idea that grew into a product and now a brand.

Out of her very own home-studio, Annie Parker has spent the last two years mastering her art of handmade, functional ceramics for the home. Just one look at her Instagram confirms that Ann Margaret Ceramics will, in fact, complete your next interior design project. 

We sat down with Parker to discuss Baltimore artistry, in-studio vibes, and all things inspo.

How did you get started with ceramics?
I went to Towson University and I graduated in 2014. I was actually a graphic design major, but I took one ceramics class with a guy named Richard Holt and I really liked it. After college I did a graphic design internship with Baltimore Clayworks, which was funny and kind of like a roundabout way to get into it. It was an unpaid internship, but they allowed me to use their equipment and I just kind of ditched graphic design and went full swing with ceramics.

What is one word you would use to best describe Ann Margaret Ceramics?
Maybe, refreshing.

What is your in-studio routine?

It’s funny, I listen to podcasts a lot. So like almost everything I make has been made while listening to a podcast and I literally am always listening to murder podcasts. I really get into it.

What is special to you about being based in Baltimore?

I love Baltimore. There’s just such a community of makers and creative here is really unique to Baltimore. Especially since we have all the different neighborhoods here, everything kind of has its own character. I’ve definitely made a lot of connections and friends here.

What is your favorite kind of piece to create?
The evil eye kind of took off—that’s probably one of my most popular items. The evil eye planter is definitely one of my favorites, it’s kind of like a classic now and it’s just kind of different. I feel like it’s unique to me and recognizable for me. Also, I do a lot of marbling, which is really fun because everything comes out different every single time

What is the most embarrassing fashion trend you used to love?
Oh gosh. I think I definitely wore, in middle school, a Polo under a band T-shirt, which I hate now.

Who is your style icon?
I’m like so out of the loop, but I’m always looking at the Man Repeller. I think she’s super cute and I love her chic-meets-comfort. I’m always trying to keep it comfortable.

What is your favorite TV show to binge?
I only have Netflix, I don’t have TV. But, when I go to my parents sometimes I’ll watch The Bachelor. Gotta love the The Bachelor. So stupid.

Who inspires you the most?
Eric Landon, who is kind of like the master of all ceramics right now. He’s just amazing.

What is the last concert you went to?
My boyfriend’s in Bond St. District, so I’m always going those shows. Other than that, Future Islands was the most recent show.

What does the future hold for Ann Margaret Ceramics?
Hopefully just more and more of what’s been happening. I have Artscape coming up at the end of July, so I’m looking forward to that. Hopefully getting into some more stores. I’m in some stores in Baltimore, D.C., New York and L.A. right now. Focusing on forward motion.

Phyllis Langley (@lifeofphylly)

If you were on a deserted island and could only bring one thing what would it be?
AG: My cat, Trippy Cat.

LC: A 6-pack of Flying Dog’s Bloodline.

What is your favorite photo on your Instagram account?
AG: We recently did a day of featuring dog pictures, which were a lot of fun.

LC: It’s also cool to see pictures of people in their natural environment, like their studio or living room.

What do you love photographing the most?
AG: I love photographing people and getting to go to coffee shops and sit down and just talk to them.

Mary Ellen LaFreniere (@steelcutflowerco)

Ian J. Bell (@ianjaredbell)

What is your guilty pleasure?
AG: Pitango [Gelato] and Keeping Up with the Kardashians.

LC: Lately, tacos from Clavel. And I don’t totally feel guilty about it.

How has social media enabled The Bmore Creatives to grow?
LC: People searching through hashtags and locations helps them find us. We wouldn’t exist without Instagram because our way of growing a following in the beginning was commenting on people’s photos and liking them. Social media means everything to Baltimore Creatives.

Who is your idol?
AG: Beyoncé. Also Lane Harlan, the owner of W.C. Harlan, because she’s such a boss.

Rosemary Kourdoglou (@officegoth)

Olivia Witherite (@oliviawitherite)

If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be?
AG: We would love to live in Europe.

What do you hope people get out of seeing the pictures you share?
LC: I hope people who live in Baltimore can see the city from a new perspective. But also, for people who don’t live here, it’s nice when someone stumbles upon our feed and realizes they may have had a totally different idea of what Baltimore was like.

What’s next for The Bmore Creatives?
AG:We have an event coming up called Baltimore IRL, a pop-up gallery at Wet City featuring photographs by some of Instagram’s most avid photographers.