The best gifts are those that are special, delightful and unique. This holiday season, when hunting for those perfect gifts, why not skip the mall in favor of local businesses right in your backyard? At Ruxton Station and Wyndhurst Station, you’ll find two small, well-curated shopping centers filled with fabulous items that won’t be under every other tree in Baltimore.
Ruxton’s charming collection of buildings was built in the 1950’s and now houses a variety of boutique shops. Find wonderful gifts for everyone at Linens & Lingerie, V Fashion, J. Mclaughlin and The Little Shoebox and go the extra mile with flourishes, like flowers from Rutland Beard Florist, or start thinking about weddings and formal events at Garnish Boutique.
“Our stores at Ruxton Station are one of a kind,” says Emilie Blaze, owner of The Little Shoebox. “They’re so special. Each store is beautifully laid out with the thoughtfulness of our customer base and one of a kind items. We have taken the time to decorate our stores and choose items that you will not find at large ‘cookie cutter’ stores.”
Wyndhurst Station in Roland Park is housed in a former station house for the MD and PA Railroad. At Wyndhurst Station, the businesses can take you from day to night during the busy holiday party season, says Jodie Gordon, owner of Embody Pilates & Wellness. The shopping center features locally owned boutique shops and services, with free parking and a relaxed atmosphere. “Wyndhurst Station offers you quaint local shops that give you personal and boutique services,” she says. “You can grab a workout and facial at Embody, then treat yourself to an acupuncture appointment at Helia to manage the stress of the holidays.”
“Next,” she continues, “you move onto Shear Classic to get a blow out to look fabulous for the party! Then follow up with a manicure, pick out an outfit at Redeux, throw in the errands of dropping off your dry cleaning and grabbing a gift at The Monogram Shop. Finish your day off having Shananigans Toy Shop pick out the perfect toy for your child!” Add in a trip to the newly opened Boutique 44 for some USA made (and some local Baltimore) brands of hip, modern clothing, and your day is complete!
At both Ruxton and Wyndhurst, relationships are key to the shopping experience. “The relationships are equally as important as the sale!” says Jodie Gordon.
Emilie Blaze agrees that people come first when shopping small businesses in the community. “Shopping local puts you in touch with the community around you,” she says. “The men and women who work at Ruxton Station are from the surrounding area and care tremendously about the village. The small businesses and retailers make our area distinct, extraordinary and add flavor to the charming residential neighborhood.”
Keep your neighborhood charming and your gift-giving inspired – shop locally this holiday season.
Ruxton Station is located on the corner of Bellona Avenue and LaBelle Avenue, where Ruxton Road and Bellona Avenue intersect in Ruxton. This Thursday, December 8, the shopping center hosts a Holiday themed Happy Hour. shops will remain open until 7pm.
Wyndhurst Station is located on the corner of Wyndhurst Avenue and Lawndale Avenue in Roland Park.
