Wegdams Open Sixth Creme de la Creme Store in Annapolis

Tara and Ben Wegdam opened their sixth Creme de la Creme store on Francis Street in downtown Annapolis on Thursday. The new location marks the couple's second business in Anne Arundel County. They aim to blend French and Italian living styles with Southern hospitality.

The Wegdams started the company in 2000 in Middleburg, Virginia. They have expanded their operations steadily over the last two decades. Ben Wegdam said the company seeks locations that are fun and offer high customer potential. He described the Annapolis spot as the perfect place for the brand.

Tara Wegdam pointed to the constant activity in the neighborhood as a key draw. She noted that the area attracts visitors for many reasons but also has a steady population of local residents. This mix suits a store where shoppers personalize their space. She added that no similar store was already operating in the city.

Ben Wegdam explained that the company's locations share knowledge regularly. Managers from all six stores speak with one another every week. They discuss product selection and how to arrange merchandise. This collaboration helps the team improve across all sites. The couple moves quickly when a strong location becomes available.

The grand opening drew a mix of new faces and repeat customers. Tara Wegdam said meeting new people was a highlight of the event. Some longtime shoppers stopped by, including one wearing clothing from the store. She said it was good to learn how customers use their purchases. Some recent transplants to the area expressed gladness that the store had opened nearby.

The new shop joins a growing number of new and expanding companies in the county. The Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation reported that nearly 60 businesses added or expanded their presence in May and June of this year. The Wegdams' new store is part of that recent wave of commercial growth.