Annapolis Retail: Wegdams Open Sixth Home Goods Store

Tara and Ben Wegdam opened a new home goods store in downtown Annapolis on Thursday. The location is their second business in Anne Arundel County and the sixth store in their Creme de la Creme chain.

The couple started the company in 2000 in Middleburg, Virginia. Ben Wegdam said the business targets locations with high foot traffic and distinct character. He described the new Francis Street site as the perfect spot for the brand.

Tara Wegdam noted that the neighborhood supports a steady stream of both residents and visitors. She said the presence of local buyers aligns with the store's model, which encourages shoppers to personalize their living spaces. She also pointed out that no other retailer with a similar product mix was already operating in the city.

The Wegdams use a centralized approach to inventory and store management. Ben Wegdam said managers from all six locations meet weekly to share feedback on merchandise placement and product performance. He said the couple moves quickly when a suitable property becomes available to secure the lease.

The store offers furniture, decor, and clothing inspired by French and Italian design. Customers can browse the space during the grand opening event, which attracted both new visitors and existing clients. Tara Wegdam mentioned that several long-time customers attended, including one wearing the company's apparel line.

She said feedback from shoppers about how they use the products helps the team refine their offerings. Some new residents in the area expressed relief that the store had opened nearby. The expansion adds to a recent wave of commercial growth in the region.

According to the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation, nearly 60 new or expanding businesses were added to the county in May and June of this year. The Annapolis shop joins that list of recent commercial developments in the area.