Wegdams open Francis Street boutique

Tara and Ben Wegdam opened their newest retail location on Francis Street on Thursday.

The shop, called Creme de la Creme, is the sixth store the couple operates. It marks the Wegdams' second business in Anne Arundel County. The store focuses on French and Italian home goods.

The couple started the business in 2000 in Middleburg, Virginia. They have expanded the brand steadily over the years. Ben Wegdam said the company seeks locations with high foot traffic and strong potential. He described downtown Annapolis as the perfect spot for the new venture.

Tara Wegdam noted that many visitors pass through the area for different reasons. She said the neighborhood also has a stable resident population. That mix fits a store where customers personalize their living spaces. She added that no similar competitor was already operating in the city.

The Wegdams coordinate closely across their six locations. Managers from all stores speak weekly to share ideas on products and display strategies. Ben Wegdam said they move quickly when a strong location becomes available. The Annapolis storefront represents that kind of opportunity.

The grand opening drew a mix of new visitors and returning customers. Tara Wegdam mentioned meeting people wearing the company's clothing line. Some shoppers told her they had recently moved to the area. They expressed relief that the store now offered local access to the brand's goods.

The new shop adds to recent retail growth in the region. The Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation reported nearly 60 new or expanding businesses joined the county in May and June of this year.