Wednesday, December 3, 2008

A Shop of Pure Enchantment



Christmas shopping is a chore which I usually put off until the last minute. I have a large family, five brothers and sisters, and unless someone specifically asks for something in particular, I am never sure what to get for everyone. This year I was determined to start the process early, and since I happened to be in Maryland for Thanksgiving, I decided to venture over to Buckeystown where one of my oldest and dearest friends has a shop. With the economy in shambles, my husband and I make it a policy to patronize small businesses. Visiting my friend Virgina's shop, Chartreuse and Company, ended up being a decision which benefited me perhaps more than it did her. It ended up being a one stop shopping trip, due to the great bargains and creative and varied merchandise. I was able to find something for everyone.



Chartreuse and Company has a little of everything, including antiques, religious statues, objets d'art, china, greeting cards, floral arrangements, linens and furniture. Hot coffee is usually served. Virginia's house and farm, known as "Clifton-on-the-Monocacy"on Buckeystown Pike, has been in her family for generations; the main shop is in one of the restored barns. It is like walking into a magical cottage in a fairy tale.



Next weekend, Chartreuse and Company is offering a special tag sale, so if any readers of Tea at Trianon who live in the Washington, D.C. area happen to be in Frederick County, it will be worth your while to stop by the shop. Sometimes the main house is open, which is inspirational to anyone interested in historic sites.



Buckeystown is right outside of Frederick, Maryland, worthy of a day trip in itself, especially during Advent and Christmas, for the many wonderful stores, restaurants and historic homes. Not to mention the shrines of Our Lady and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton that are also close at hand.

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6 comments:

Terry Nelson said...

I love shops such as these - charming!

elena maria vidal said...

Me, too! And this one is the best of all!

Alexandra said...

I love this shop!Thanks for sharing. I like to decorate with items with character as well.

elena maria vidal said...

As do I....

May said...

Wow, this looks like a fantastic shop!

Anonymous said...

The statue of Our Lady is exquisite!