Fall Decor Ideas

It’s that time of year again when the weather starts to turn colder, the leaves start to change color, and we begin decorating our houses for fall. So where is the best place to find the perfect garland, pumpkins, leaves, and all things to represent the season? Here is our yearly blog featuring the best places on the property to find your autumn decor.

Target

Let’s talk cozy. Target has the electric fireplace entertainment stands you’ve been seeing on Instagram to upgrade your living room for the ultimate cozy feeling. Then, pair that with some of their fall-colored throw blankets and your favorite autumn-scented candle or wax melt. Hello, new favorite place in your home.

Bed Bath Beyond

If you plan on hosting some holiday gatherings this season, there are a few ways you can spice up your dinner party game. Bed Bath and Beyond has a great selection of fall kitchen towels, as well as table runners to make sure you’re right on theme. Or, you can start before your guests even enter your home. Check out their wide collection of doormats and outdoor decor like pumpkins and outdoor pillows. 

Arhaus

If you’re looking to add luxury to your seasonal decor, you’ll want to stop into Arhaus. Greenery elements such as wreaths and garland are great ways to bring the outside world in.​​You can also find high-end decor like nutcrackers, 3-D Advent calendars, and menorahs. Or shop for more affordable gifts like ornaments or tea towels.

Z Gallerie

The best place to go if you’re looking for unique accents is Z Gallerie. With so many different options to choose from, you’re sure to load up! Elevate your table decor game with leaves, candle holders, and napkin rings. You can even refresh your rooms with some of their smaller pieces like candles, vases, and wall art.

Paper Source

Decor can come in many shapes and sizes. Sometimes it is in the form of curtains and art decor, and sometimes it is a beautifully plated appetizer. Paper Source has cookbooks with exciting recipes that also will look great on your counter. Start the party by sending out personalized holiday invitations perfect for any Friendsgiving or Fall dinner parties. And, for the guests who love to stay after the party, be prepared with cute seasonal mugs for a classic, after-dinner coffee.

 

The Annapolis Town Center has great options to find the perfect way to elevate your holiday look.

/by

Tenant Spotlight: Ruah Studio

Aiming to “put down more mats on mother earth as our way of incorporating everyone we could reach into the practice of yoga and meditation” – Ruah opened in 2014. And, for the last 7 years, they have been doing just that. Spring of 2021 they moved their studio to Annapolis Town Center and we believe a proper introduction is way overdue.

Q: For those who don’t know, can you tell me a little bit about Ruah Studio?
A: Ruah is a socially responsible yoga and meditation studio. Our practice is ongoing and ever-changing. We welcome beginners, silver starters, experts, and the stiff or reluctant—that means everyone. We are defined by our mission to put more mats on the mother, which means we not only serve the community that can come to us, but we also reach out to those underserved and without means or access. 

Q: How long have you been with Ruah? Can you tell us more about Ruah’s start?
A: First and foremost, I love yoga. I started Ruah to fulfill my personal interest in bringing yoga to underserved communities through the generosity and enthusiasm of the community I am part of. In our eight years, we have trained many yogis to teach and spread our mission. We have given away as many classes as we have sold. We started the first and only program of yoga and meditation in our local detention centers and have donated mats to most of our local schools. Ruah has also spearheaded a huge warm coat drive for five years in conjunction with the public defender’s office. The teachers we have trained have created incredibly diverse programs from yoga for vets to yoga for caregivers in an oncology ward. 

Q: Do you ever get to collaborate with other tenants?
A: Heck yeah! We were able to do yoga with your dog featuring treats from Sweet P & Salty Dog Swag, and I couldn’t serve the delicious wine after my Friday evening class without the help of BIN 201! 

Q: What is your favorite part of the Ruah community?
A: The people we serve. 

Q: What is it like having your studio at the Annapolis Town Center? What are some of your favorite aspects of the new location?
A: We love the beautiful space and the way there is always someone wandering. We have met so many new friends and our old friends are finding their way. We love how the energy is bringing people back out and offering so many things to do before and after class. 

Q: Ruah has been holding a ton of events recently! What has been one of the most memorable or your favorite?
A: I love our little Yoglets (kids) running around all week in summer camp. I was also very moved by our violinist, Alex, who played for a class out on the green. 

Q: What advice would you give to someone who might be considering yoga for the first time?
A: Just come. There is a way for everyone to begin.

 Q: What can guests look forward to for the rest of the year?
A: We will be offering meditation, special workshops for headstands and arm balances, a beginner series, and our teacher training is already beginning to fill up! Plus, our Grand Opening on October 9th.

Q: What is the best way for people to find out more about these events?
A: We are on Facebook and Instagram, but the easiest way to find our schedule is to go to our website at www.ruahstudio.com or download our app. We are huge fans of the old-fashioned drop by and say hi. We hope to see you on the mat or for a cocktail at any of the places we can walk to after class.

/by

Your Labor Day Cookout

Labor Day weekend is typically spent by the pool, at the beach, camping with friends or spending quality time with loved ones. No matter the activity of choice, the weekend always seems to include a cookout. If you plan to be the hostess with the mostess this coming holiday, look no further than Annapolis Town Center. Our tenants have everything you need to throw the ultimate Labor Day barbecue! 

Start With The Basics 

What is a cookout without the basics? Stop in Target for fun and funky disposable plates, cups, and fun straws. Their wide selection makes it easy to fit any style and color scheme you are looking for. A good set of grilling tools is essential when you are cooking out. Good thing Bed Bath and Beyond has all the spatulas, tongs, aprons, and aluminum foil you may need. You can even pick up some serving platters, pitchers, and coolers to better serve your guests. 

Pour, Sip, Repeat

Staying hydrated is a must during these warmer months. But, honestly, what is a cookout without your favorite beverage? Finding out what your guests prefer beforehand is the way to go. Make sure you have a cooler filled with ice offering up the latest in refreshments. We suggest checking out Bin201’s Prima Rosé, High Moon seltzers, the Cocktail Courier Triple Spice Margarita Party Can, Summer Shandy, and Rogue Spirits Sparkling Craft Cocktails in grapefruit or lemon mule. Cooper’s Hawk also serves up a few of our summer favorites like their Premium Lemon Wine Seltzer and Bubbly Rosé. Drink up!

Side Dishes Anyone?

Nailing down the perfect meal will ensure your guests will be completely satisfied. From the best grillers to winning sides, and of course, mouthwatering desserts. Whole Foods has, well, everything. From family-sized platter options to freshly prepared side dishes, an assortment of desserts, and the best do-it-yourself recipe options. You can never go wrong stopping in to check out their selections. Have your main course covered? Turn to Mission BBQ for your sides. Their kickin’ collard greens, southern-style mac n cheese, and hearty baked beans are definite crowd favorites. For your closer – Nothing Bundt Cakes. They have an assortment of mini bundtinis, tiered bundt cakes,  and bundtlet towers.

No matter your needs, we have you covered. Stop by the Town Center before the weekend and stock up! If you have some last minute needs on the day of, here is our tenant holiday hours:

 

About Faces 10:00am-3:00pm

A La Mode 10:00am-6:00pm

All Tackle 9:00am-5:00pm

Anthropology 10:00am-8:00pm

Arhaus 11:00am-5:00pm

ATC Cleaners CLOSED

Baltimore Coffee & Tea 6:30am-7:00pm

Bassett Furniture 10:00am-6:00pm

Bed Bath and Beyond 9:00am-9:00pm

Bin201 9:00am-6:00pm

Brother’s Services CLOSED

Charm City Run 10:00am-4:00pm

Cooper’s Hawk 11:00am-9:00pm

Ethan Allen  10:00am-6:00pm

Giolitti’s Deli 10:00am-2:00pm

J. Jill 10:00am-5:00pm

Muse Paintbar CLOSED

MyEyeDr CLOSED

Neo’s Pizza 11:00am-10:00pm

 Offenbachers 10:00am-5:00pm

Paper Source 10:00am-6:00pm

Parole Shoe Repair CLOSED

PF Changs 11:00am-9:00pm

Restoration Hardware 10:00am-7:00pm

Ruah Yoga CLOSED

Salon Unlimited 10:00am-7:00pm

Salty Dog & Sweet P’s Swag CLOSED

Scout & Molly’s 11:00am-6:00pm

Smyth Jewelers CLOSED 

South Moon Under 10:00am-6:00pm

Talbots 10:00am-5:00pm

TempurPedic 10:00am-7:00pm

True Food Kitchen 11:30am-9:00pm

Vein Clinics CLOSED

Whole Foods 7:00am-9:00pm

Ziki’s Japanese Steakhouse 12:00pm-10:00pm

 

/by

Alternate Dining Options With True Food Kitchen

Annapolis Town Center’s newest establishment, True Food Kitchen, is a restaurant that’s not just about great food, but also about offering a healthy alternative to people’s lifestyles. It’s a place where people can come with their families and friends and enjoy a meal that tastes just as good as it makes them feel. Their seasonally inspired menu is filled with a variety of healthy dishes and handcrafted beverages that can be made available for pick-up or delivery, along with some additional take-out offerings such as family meals and meal-prep options. Similarly, for those special occasions and larger parties, True Food Kitchen offers a private dining room and prix-fixe menu packages, as well as take-out catering options.

Take Out

We’ve all had mornings that are too hectic to even think about what we’re going to have for lunch. Or those late evenings leaving the office with little groceries and no dinner plans back at home. The benefits of True To-Go are that it’s delicious, nutritious, convenient, and affordable. Order for the family. Pick-up for the entire office. Or just sneak a delicious meal for yourself. True Food Kitchen is a great option for any situation, whether you’re on the road, in a hurry, or just need something that’s easy to grab. You can order online or call the restaurant (443.775.5179)  and have your food in no time. 

Private Dining Room

Sometimes it is nice to eat out but remain in your own ‘bubble’. True Food Kitchen has an amazing private dining room that seats up to 14 guests. Enjoy an intimate gathering with friends and family to celebrate a special occasion or welcome your team back to the office with a team luncheon. With a nautical theme that is uniquely True, this space is the perfect place to gather around good food and great company. Email pdrannapolis@truefoodkitchen.com to reserve the room for your next occasion!

Catering

When catering for an event or a gathering, it can be hard to find something that suits everyone’s palate. From different dietary restrictions to lifestyle choices, your dining options can be limited. Fortunately, this is True Food Kitchen’s secret sauce, providing a  customizable catering menu of salads, wraps, bowls, and sides that can satisfy your guests and budget with packages starting at $13 per person. Orders can be placed at least 12 hours in advance by calling the restaurant directly (443.775.5179).

As you see, for those meals and occasions where you may be in a hurry, or need some extra space and attention, True Food Kitchen is there to provide their seasonal flavors and nutrient-dense dishes no matter the setting. Learn more at TrueFoodKitchen.com and enjoy your next True Food Kitchen experience!

/by

Tenant Spotlight: a la mode

A La Mode Intimates was born out of the dissatisfaction of the “one size fits most” bras that were on the market. There was a disconnect between the way bras were displayed in stores and how they claimed to fit all body types. A la mode has spent the past 18 years innovating the way their customers buy bras.

Q: For those who may be unfamiliar, can you tell me a little bit about à la mode?

A: à la mode intimates is a locally owned boutique that provides high-quality fashionable lingerie, bras, panties, and sleepwear. In French, à la mode means “in the fashion,” reflecting our practice of representing the latest, most fashionable pieces in the lingerie market. We offer body-positive styles and fit for all sizes and shapes; carrying literally hundreds of band/cup combinations and sizes that you won’t find in a department store. Our staff of professionally certified bra fitters will help you find the right style for your needs in the perfect fit for your comfort

 

Q: How long has à la mode been at Annapolis Town Center? What is it like having your shop here?

A: We have been in the Town Center for a decade! à la mode intimates relocated here from our original shop on West Street in January of 2011. It was a good fit for us because our customer base was growing beyond just the Annapolis market. We had, and still have, clients coming from across the Baltimore-DC corridor and Mid-Atlantic region. We needed a larger space with more centralized access and parking. The Annapolis Town Center provides all this plus a unique blend of major retailers, local boutiques, luxury living, and amazing restaurants. 

Q: Do you ever get to collaborate with other tenants?

A: Yes! There have been many collaborations over the years. We participate in the annual Fashion for Friends runway show to benefit the Light House Shelter held at Great Gatherings. We also recently took part in the Kaleidoscope exhibit featuring women-owned businesses in the Town Center. 

 

Q: What is your favorite part of the à la mode community?  

A: The opportunity to meet and work with strong, smart women every day. When we say that we support our community, we’re talking about more than the lift a good-fitting bra provides. We believe in playing an active role in helping our community of women. 

We support Chrysalis House, a non-profit in Annapolis that provides addiction and mental health treatment services exclusively to women, while allowing them to have their children in residence during treatment. We have hosted bra fittings for residents and given them new bras, panties, and sleepwear. We help keep their “crisis closet” supplied with underwear for women who come in with nothing. And we have, on occasion, donated diapers and baby wipes because sometimes that is the most important need.  

In 2020, we asked our customers to join us in The Comfort Project, where we provided gift bags filled with pajamas, robes, and other items to women health care workers on the COVID-19 front lines. We donated as many as we could, and our customers stepped in and donated even more. We have the greatest customers! When the project ended, we had donated several hundred gift bags to nurses at three area hospitals.

Q: What makes à la mode stand out? 

A: à la mode intimates’ success is built on the idea that expert bra fitting services paired with making sure that our deep product inventory is designed to fulfill the perfect fit for all- all bodies, all sizes, and all backgrounds.  We bring in products designed to embrace the unique beauty of everyone. We want our product to spark confidence in our clients in an inclusive, positive, friendly, and welcoming setting. We want our clients to say “WOW!” Wow, that was so easy. Wow, that was fun. Wow, I love the fit and comfort. 

We are always expanding offerings for our clients. We go to both the Spring and Fall Intima trade shows in New York City to find brands and products to bring back to our store. These buying trips give us the opportunity to share feedback with brand representatives and let them know what our customers are looking for. We just returned from the Fall Intima trade show 2 weeks ago, where we saw exciting fashion trends and were able to scout out what our customers have requested: more wireless options, high fashion, and brand sustainability practices. 

We have a strong customer base who recommends à la mode to family and friends. We see generations of women- grandmothers, mothers, and daughters- as well as groups of friends coming in for fittings. We have won recognition from local media (Capital Gazette Readers’ Choice, What’s Up Best Of) for our customer service and national industry awards (Best of Intima) for excellence.

Q: à la mode has had events and promotions throughout the year. What has been one of the most memorable or your favorite events?

A: We have a month-long bra recycling event every January and October. During the Bad Bra Month of January and the Dead Bra Days of October, customers can bring in an old or unwanted bra for recycling and get $5 off the purchase of any new bra. The unusable bras are sent to a materials recycling facility, and any donated new bras (yes, it happens) are donated to charity.

 

Q:  We know your 18th anniversary is coming up, what does that mean to you and to a la mode? Will you be doing anything special to celebrate?

A: We are so thankful for our 18 years in business. We are truly blessed to work in a field for which we have great passion. We know that the right bra can change how a woman feels. We see it every day in our boutique. The relief when they are comfortably fitted and the smile when they realize how beautiful they feel. It is pretty amazing.

And yes! We are definitely celebrating the BIG 18. Thursday, Aug. 26 through the end of the month, we will have new markdowns of up to 75% off select in-store merchandise. Swimwear will be 40% to 75% off. Designer panties $20 each or 3 for $48. Select panties from Marlies Dekkers and Aubade, regularly $75+, marked down to $20. And, what’s a party without gifts? We’ll give a free gift with any purchase of $75 or more.

 

 Q: What advice would you give to someone who might be considering their first fitting?

A: Do it for your health and comfort. Eighty percent of women are wearing the wrong size bra. Very few women recognize the signs of a bad fit, assuming that underwire will always hurt, straps will always dig, and bands will always ride up. 

We understand that bra shopping can be overwhelming and intimidating. Many women are hesitant to take off their tops and look in a mirror. Our bra salon is a no-judgment zone. We designed our boutique and trained our staff to make sure each woman has a friendly, supportive experience. We celebrate every body type and strive to find the bra that will put a smile on her face. She should feel beautiful. She should be comfortable.  

We make scheduling easy. On our website, alamodeintimates.com click the button “Schedule a Bra Fitting” and you’re on your way.

Q: What is the best way for people to find out more about these events? 

A: Our favorite way to get the word out is face to face! We’d love for you to come by our Annapolis Town Center boutique and explore all we offer- bras, panties, lingerie, sleepwear, sportswear, swimsuits, shapewear, and maternity. Our website- alamodeintimates.com – and social media pages have a lot of great information. Find us on Facebook and Instagram as @alamodeintimates. We also send out a newsletter twice a month featuring upcoming sales, events and what’s new in stock. Sign up for our newsletter at this link here. 

 

 

 

 

/by

Summer Picnic Essentials

The best part about warm weather is the plethora of opportunities to get outdoors and have fun with the people you love; especially when it comes to savoring your palate. In our opinion, the best form of outside dining is the DIY-styled feast – a picnic! Good thing Annapolis Town Center has all of the shops you need to stop in to create that perfect spread. 

First stop – Whole Foods. Their assortment of prepared foods, snacks, beverages, and essentials is sure to check a bunch off of your list. Visit the olive bar to pick some accompaniments for your thinly sliced prosciutto and aged sharp cheddar. Then, head to the veggies and fruit aisles for some fresh melon or strawberries and pre-cut vegetables to enjoy with a rich and creamy dip. Hot fried chicken with their famous BLT Pasta Salad or Mediterranean Crunch Salad is sure to be the perfect main course. Then finish with a delicious pie or fresh cookies. To eat, you must have the necessary flatware. Grab their compostable plates and cups. 

Next up – beverages from BIN201. Their associates put a great deal of care into finding well-balanced, great-tasting wines. Grab a few of their new arrivals like the Santa Barbara Winery Pinot Noir or the Prisma Sauvignon Blanc. Or, craft some cocktails with their beer, liquor, and mix assortment. It is the perfect catch-all location to suffice all of your thirsty needs!

Picnic basics are an absolute must. Head on over to Bed Bath & Beyond for the cliche basket, blanket, and don’t forget the tunes! They have all of the essentials and then some. From totes to cooler bags and bug sprays to decorative trays. You can even grab some cute napkins and place settings that can easily coordinate with your go-to outfit. Speaking of wardrobe. Shop stylish shirt dresses, crop tops, midi skirts, skinny jeans, maxi dresses, and picnic-inspired accessories from a number of our boutique row retailers like Anthropologie, J.Jill, Scout & Molly’s, and South Moon Under. You will be hitting the park in no time with some stylish looks!

Stay up to date with everything we have going on at the Annapolis Town Center by following us on Instagram and Facebook.

/by