Thanks For Visiting!

Discover, taste and explore the hidden treasures of downtown Frederick, Maryland, with us. We'll take you on a journey through our historic downtown area, unveiling 6 or more exciting Pearl locations. Our stops are pearl-worthy because they embody the uniqueness of Frederick. Our vibrant present and historic past will unfold simultaneously before you. Stroll the streets at a relaxed pace, experiencing the best Frederick has to offer.

Your tour guides Margo and Karen will introduce you to several business owners who will share their own pearls of wisdom on art, flowers, chocolate, olive oil, cupcakes and interior design. Along the way, count on some surprises! Discover a new perspective and appreciation of Frederick on the Pearls tour.

Join us for this fun-filled 2 hours, where every moment is a gift and hidden gems are around every corner. Wear comfortable clothing, walking shoes and a smile, and enjoy your time with us.


"Where your treasure is, there is also your heart."

- Imprint on the original 1758 five-plate stove located in the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum

"Eyes that look are common, eyes that see are rare."
- J Oswald Sanders


Saturday, November 17, 2012

Autumn Serenade


Karen and I treated ourselves to a late lunch at Ayse. Oh well, we missed one of our favorite waiters but eagerly ordered Saganaki, scallops and the fish and chips lunch special.  Gnoshing on pita bread dipped in olive oil, Karen shared tales and details of her recent Capitol Jazz Super Cruise 4. Thankfully she missed the brunt of Hurricane Sandy. Excitedly she shared how approachable many of the jazz artists were to everyone on board.  Several made a lasting impression upon her. Marcus Johnson  with an MBA and law degree was one of those talented jazz artists she and her husband had the opportunity to meet several times!  During  his performance, Marcus Johnson talked about FLO (For The Love Of)  Wines, a business venture that  expanded within a handful of years from a small Virginia vineyard to the Napa Valley. An aha moment for Marcus was in knowing that he had in his power a choice. A choice to be thankful, for what may seem to be the "smallest "of gifts in the midst of what ever perceived life challenges, disappointments or "woe is me" feelings surfaced. In short he had the choice to focus on what was going well, and to be grateful for the is-ness of life........And so we made a heart felt toast, thankful for this "sister "  moment together on such a warm, Fall afternoon.
Deep in sister talk we did not hear or see Carla and Michelle arrive, sisters we haven't seen since the grand opening of AnnMarie's, Pure Home (interior design and furniture/accessories store), Ayse Meze Lounge's neighbor at Shab Row/Eveready Square. Warm niceties were exchanged. Briefly, we tooted life notes for the past year. We spoke of our traveling dreams, "Paris, yes some time soon, wouldn't we have a ball together?"......... We promised to meet back at AnnMarie's after lunch as we heard that her new room vignettes featuring contemporary and organic designs were a sight to behold.   "Opah", Ayse's hostess and our favorite waitress brought the Saganaki, what's not to love about melted cheese with warm pita from a brick oven?  "Opah", Michelle and Carla ordered this treat as well!


We tumbled into Pure Home from Shab Row/Eveready Square's parking lot entrance with full bellies.  Michelle and Carla were already there. There was a flurry of activity in the shop as another couple entered from the East Street entrance and two sets of sisters were gabbing, ohhhhing ,ahhing and swooping through the store as AnnMarie helped yet another customer.  Kenny, AnnMarie's husband joined the chatter, no one could resist touching and talking about the espresso and cream Tibetan Lamb stool on metal legs.   Enjoying the holiday vibe, Michelle already spotted an ottoman/cocktail table perfect for her living room.  Art work, throws, chairs, pillows, chandeliers and light fixtures were accents with a funky twist! The merchandise seemed to say, "come feast your eyes, window shop."  The chair Karen nick-named the "Missoni Chair" with the soft lavender throw spoke to her. Carla also touched base with Ann Marie on several pieces of interest to her. Where did the time go? As we departed for our car, it was darker, a warm evening breeze swirled yellow, burnt orange and red leaves  about our feet, carriage rides were gearing up on East street.  What a good way to end the first Saturday in November, in downtown Frederick, at Shab Row/Eveready Square, window shopping at Ann Marie's after Ayse's leisurely lunch!l