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Thanksgiving Day Preparedness Guide

Thanksgiving Day is full of fun, love, excitement, and immense pressure for certain individuals. Good thing the tenants at Annapolis Town Center can set you up for success, no matter if you are a host or a guest. Check out our best tips for either role you may play this holiday season.

For Hosts

Turkey Day is by far one of the most treasured holidays of the year, but for hosts – it can be one of the most stressful days as well. With so many moving parts, a stacked guest list, and the 21st-century expectations of table decor – your head could be spinning before you even begin! So, let’s start with the basics and break down which tenant should be your go-to stop. 

Table settings and decor can be simple or elaborate, depending on your preference. Get started with personalized invitations straight from Paper Source. When you start here you can streamline a look for the entire Thanksgiving experience. Liking pairing the invitations with day-of personalized napkins and place cards. Next, head to ArHaus for the perfect table runner and drink glasses to cheers the evening away. They pair beautifully with Smyth Jewelers’ timeless serving platters, knife sets, and salad bowls. Don’t sweat the small stuff with the help of Bed Bath & Beyond. Get your table accents like pumpkins, flowers, garland, and long-stemmed candles. You can even welcome your guests with a Thanksgiving-inspired outdoor welcome mat.

 

What is Thanksgiving without the food?! Most families create dishes of their past for the present. So, Whole Foods may be your only needed stop for the best variety in ingredients. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t start some new tasty traditions. Sop in True Food Kitchen to purchase their Recipe Book. Seasonally changing, this book may have just the missing dish to complete your table. Feeling a bit overwhelmed yet? Cheat the system and let our property restaurants take the reins. With a plethora of dining options for all palettes, you can easily order ahead of time and pick up just before guests arrive (giving you enough time to put the dishes in your own serving bowls and plates)! 

For Guests

If you are not hosting the dinner yourself, practicing your best guest etiquette should be your top priority. In most instances, guests are required to simply show up with an empty stomach. Though, it is always polite and recommended to bring something small to show your appreciation to the host. Maybe their favorite bottle of liquor or wine from Bin201. A seasonally fragranced candle from Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, or one of the many home furnishings stores. You can even prep them for the next holiday with a wine-themed 12 Nights of Christmas advent calendar from Cooper’s Hawk. Or, grab the latest in accessory fashion fun! No matter your choice, our variety of tenants can provide you with what you need.

If you happen to take part in a potluck-style dinner hosted at someone else’s residence, then you know choosing the right dish to appease all in attendance is crucial. Start at Whole Foods where the ingredients are endless and the pre-made food can be the answer to your holiday prayers. From specialty appetizers in a variety of serving sizes to prepped charcuterie boards and aisles of delicious, healthy food options, Whole Foods can easily become your one-stop-shop. Be sure to pop in Target to help get those side dishes prepared the best way possible with the latest in cooking supplies, and looking fancy in their decorated serving dishes and side bowls. You will be sure to “wow” others with your Martha Stewart or Joanna Gaines-esque skills. 

So regardless if you are a host or guest, we have what you need to make this Thanksgiving Day special. Make sure to stay up to date on all things Town Center by following us on Instagram and Facebook (@AnnapolisTownCenter)!

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Tenant Spotlight: Ruah Studio

Aiming to “put down more mats on mother earth as our way of incorporating everyone we could reach into the practice of yoga and meditation” – Ruah opened in 2014. And, for the last 7 years, they have been doing just that. Spring of 2021 they moved their studio to Annapolis Town Center and we believe a proper introduction is way overdue.

Q: For those who don’t know, can you tell me a little bit about Ruah Studio?
A: Ruah is a socially responsible yoga and meditation studio. Our practice is ongoing and ever-changing. We welcome beginners, silver starters, experts, and the stiff or reluctant—that means everyone. We are defined by our mission to put more mats on the mother, which means we not only serve the community that can come to us, but we also reach out to those underserved and without means or access. 

Q: How long have you been with Ruah? Can you tell us more about Ruah’s start?
A: First and foremost, I love yoga. I started Ruah to fulfill my personal interest in bringing yoga to underserved communities through the generosity and enthusiasm of the community I am part of. In our eight years, we have trained many yogis to teach and spread our mission. We have given away as many classes as we have sold. We started the first and only program of yoga and meditation in our local detention centers and have donated mats to most of our local schools. Ruah has also spearheaded a huge warm coat drive for five years in conjunction with the public defender’s office. The teachers we have trained have created incredibly diverse programs from yoga for vets to yoga for caregivers in an oncology ward. 

Q: Do you ever get to collaborate with other tenants?
A: Heck yeah! We were able to do yoga with your dog featuring treats from Sweet P & Salty Dog Swag, and I couldn’t serve the delicious wine after my Friday evening class without the help of BIN 201! 

Q: What is your favorite part of the Ruah community?
A: The people we serve. 

Q: What is it like having your studio at the Annapolis Town Center? What are some of your favorite aspects of the new location?
A: We love the beautiful space and the way there is always someone wandering. We have met so many new friends and our old friends are finding their way. We love how the energy is bringing people back out and offering so many things to do before and after class. 

Q: Ruah has been holding a ton of events recently! What has been one of the most memorable or your favorite?
A: I love our little Yoglets (kids) running around all week in summer camp. I was also very moved by our violinist, Alex, who played for a class out on the green. 

Q: What advice would you give to someone who might be considering yoga for the first time?
A: Just come. There is a way for everyone to begin.

 Q: What can guests look forward to for the rest of the year?
A: We will be offering meditation, special workshops for headstands and arm balances, a beginner series, and our teacher training is already beginning to fill up! Plus, our Grand Opening on October 9th.

Q: What is the best way for people to find out more about these events?
A: We are on Facebook and Instagram, but the easiest way to find our schedule is to go to our website at www.ruahstudio.com or download our app. We are huge fans of the old-fashioned drop by and say hi. We hope to see you on the mat or for a cocktail at any of the places we can walk to after class.

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Summer Picnic Essentials

The best part about warm weather is the plethora of opportunities to get outdoors and have fun with the people you love; especially when it comes to savoring your palate. In our opinion, the best form of outside dining is the DIY-styled feast – a picnic! Good thing Annapolis Town Center has all of the shops you need to stop in to create that perfect spread. 

First stop – Whole Foods. Their assortment of prepared foods, snacks, beverages, and essentials is sure to check a bunch off of your list. Visit the olive bar to pick some accompaniments for your thinly sliced prosciutto and aged sharp cheddar. Then, head to the veggies and fruit aisles for some fresh melon or strawberries and pre-cut vegetables to enjoy with a rich and creamy dip. Hot fried chicken with their famous BLT Pasta Salad or Mediterranean Crunch Salad is sure to be the perfect main course. Then finish with a delicious pie or fresh cookies. To eat, you must have the necessary flatware. Grab their compostable plates and cups. 

Next up – beverages from BIN201. Their associates put a great deal of care into finding well-balanced, great-tasting wines. Grab a few of their new arrivals like the Santa Barbara Winery Pinot Noir or the Prisma Sauvignon Blanc. Or, craft some cocktails with their beer, liquor, and mix assortment. It is the perfect catch-all location to suffice all of your thirsty needs!

Picnic basics are an absolute must. Head on over to Bed Bath & Beyond for the cliche basket, blanket, and don’t forget the tunes! They have all of the essentials and then some. From totes to cooler bags and bug sprays to decorative trays. You can even grab some cute napkins and place settings that can easily coordinate with your go-to outfit. Speaking of wardrobe. Shop stylish shirt dresses, crop tops, midi skirts, skinny jeans, maxi dresses, and picnic-inspired accessories from a number of our boutique row retailers like Anthropologie, J.Jill, Scout & Molly’s, and South Moon Under. You will be hitting the park in no time with some stylish looks!

Stay up to date with everything we have going on at the Annapolis Town Center by following us on Instagram and Facebook.

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Best Summer Sips

Break out the fancy glasses and the colorful garnishes. We have the top drinks to try, buy, and make at Annapolis Town Center. All picture-perfect for poolside fun, lively get-togethers, or relaxing under a blanket made for two under the stars.

BIN201 

Beat the heat and please your palate with a number of refreshing wines at BIN201. Sip from a few best-selling brands like Bellevue, 99 Vines, Prisma, and Between the Vines. Can’t decide on the best option? Sign up for their Case Of The Month where they pick the top bottles to savor based on the season. You can even shop a collection of beer and liquor to make your own concoctions at home. Including Tres Agaves Margarita Mix, CANE Mixers Guava Tiki Punch, and Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic.

Whole Foods Market

Stay cool with Whole Foods’ assortment of wines, beer, and fresh ingredients. Enjoy some bubbles with their Deccolio Prosecco or check out Frey Agriculturist Organic Blanc if you are looking for a sweet white. You can even try your hands at mixing your own by getting creative with a few unexpected ingredients to make the perfect drink. Blend some cucumbers, cherries, pomegranate juice, and mint to make a refreshing cucumber cooler; just add ice and your favorite liquor. Make a refreshing soda with a summer staple – lemonade. Blend bottled lemonade with strawberries and top it off with some prosecco or sparkling wine. 

On-Property Restaurants

Fresh summer flavors have arrived at the Town Center. Visit the newly opened True Food Kitchen to enjoy a number of their hand-crafted cocktails built around seasonality, quality ingredients and simple preparations. A few fan favorites include their Dragon Fruit Margarita with organic tequila, dragon fruit, ginger, and lime. Or, The Monarch featuring organic gin, elderflower, butterfly pea flower, and tonic. Cooper’s Hawk boasts a wide selection of seasonal wines that are sure to please everyone. Sip on their Spritzy Rose or enjoy one of their refreshing sangrias like Raspberry, Peach, and Cranberry.

 

Stay up to date with everything we have going on at the Annapolis Town Center by following us on Instagram and Facebook.

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Make It A Date

You may think that spouses or live-in significant others need a breather from each other after a year-long, 24/7 forced bit of “togetherness”. However, we think just the opposite! These longtime love birds need to jump back on the bandwagon of newly dating partners who have been longing for one-on-one time. As the weather turns and the nation re-opens, it is clear that more than ever we all need a little more fun and a lot less stress. That is why we have jotted down a few date idea favorites around the property.

Whether you are looking for a night of romance, a day of pampering or a basket of fun, Annapolis Town Center has what you need to keep that spark going.

A Pampering Experience

A rejuvenating escape may be the best date idea yet for 2021. Nothing says I love you more like a full day of relaxation and tranquility, side-by-side with your partner. Thanks to the Town Center, there are a number of ways you can get to pampering. Book a couple’s massage or bodywork therapy at About Faces Day Spa & Salon. Get her nails done at the highly sought-after Paint Nailbar. Or, have a couple’s makeover session at Salon Unlimited! It feels good to take care of yourself – together!

An Evening Out

Who else is ready for someone else to cook a great meal?! Or, maybe you are just excited to wear something other than lounge clothes. Get out of the house and treat you and your loved one to a casual or romantic dinner date. Annapolis Town Center boasts a variety of restaurants to fit everyone’s palate. Enjoy dinner and a show at Ziki Japanese Steakhouse with their Hibachi tables. Indulge in a Napa-inspired experience at Cooper’s Hawk Restaurant and Tasting Room. Share flavorful, Asian-inspired entrees and innovative cocktails at P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. Catch a game and a great brew at Gordon Biersch Brewery & Restaurant. Or, keep it simple and visit one of the many quick-stop eateries like NEO’s, Burgers Grilled Right, Giolitti Deli, and Mission BBQ.

Shopping Made Fun

Shopping may seem like a bit of a bore for a date idea. But, there are plenty of ways to make it fun and exciting. Mix it up a bit and have a fashion show. Or, become each other’s personal shoppers. Set a spending limit and let the gift-giving commence. Annapolis Town Center has an array of retailers that boast the trendiest clothing items and accessories. Shop from tenants like Anthropologie, Charm City Run, J. Jill, Lou Lou Boutiques, and South Moon Under. Once you are finished, grab a few drinks at one of the many restaurants or head over to Bin201 for some take-home refreshments.

Hands-On Approach

Let your creative side shine. Muse Paintbar hosts a number of instructor-led painting sessions throughout the week. Bring your loved one and test your skills, all while sipping on wine for this fun and interactive date. Paper Source also hosts a variety of craft classes, workshops, and events to further explore your artistic side. Looking instead to create your own personalized date experience? Head over to Whole Foods and grab all the perfect fixings for a picnic. Annapolis boasts a ton of great locations to sit, eat, chat, and enjoy the great outdoors. Whole Foods has the snacks, refreshments, and cutlery for the ultimate spread.

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Mother’s Day at ATC

Annapolis Town Center is celebrating Mom all weekend long. Shop great deals from May 6-8 at participating retailers around the property and receive a special gift on us! When you spend up to $250, you will receive a $25 gift card to the Town Center restaurant of your choosing. Or, spend up to $500 and receive a $50 gift card to About Faces.

See below for all of our participating tenant deals:

a la mode intimates
Sidewalk Sale: From May 7-9, a la mode will be offering up to 75% off select items.
Gift with Purchase: Free Chantelle padded, carry bag with purchase of $75. While supplies last.

Baltimore Coffee
Baltimore Coffee and Tea want to thank moms by offering complimentary medium coffee or tea for Moms on Mother’s Day.

Bin201
Buy the perfect Rose Bouquet (of wine) for Mom at Bin201.

Charm City Run
Stop by Charm City Run and check out their featured socks sale for buy 3, get 1 free.

Lou Lou Boutique
Mother’s Day weekend, Lou Lou Boutique will offer $10 off of a $50 purchase.

Muse Paintbar
Muse Paintbar will have a few specials for Mother’s Day! They are selling Mother’s Day Kit Bundles that will include 3 art projects and a free art print with purchase. Customers can also purchase virtual gift cards for Mom online and if they spend $125 on a card, we’ll take off $25! See their website for more details.

Scout and Molly’s
Scout and Molly’s will be hosting a Mother’s Day-themed event on Saturday, May 8 from 2-5 pm, and will be collaborating with a local professional photographer to offer professional Mother’s Day portraits for $25.  During the event, all purchases will be 25% off!

Smyth Jewelers
On May 8, stop by and check out Smyth Jewelers Mother’s Day glass blowing event!

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