That post-vacation brain fog is real.
My clients were set to close on their new home on a Friday. Wonderful people. Big move. Kids. The whole fresh-start package. I was supposed to land on Sunday, which left me just enough time (in theory) to pull together a thoughtful closing gift.
Except I got the dates wrong. They were signing papers Monday morning 8am.
Cue the panic spiral.
I texted a few fellow agents in full freak-out mode, asking for a miracle. They all had the same answer:
La Ruche. Severna Park. Trust me.
First Impressions of La Ruche
I had never been. But the second I walked in, I couldn’t believe I’d missed it this long.
La Ruche is a tiny cottage-style storefront tucked into a quiet plaza in Severna Park. From the outside, it’s easy to miss. Inside, it feels like the kind of place that would exist if a French grandmother with impeccable taste opened a concept store in Provence—then filled it with her favorite imported finds and charmingly curated home goods.
The store is small, but packed. Every shelf is layered with thoughtful treasures: French pantry staples, Italian pastas, dipped candles in wild shapes, glitter cocktail mixers, and vintage European glassware. It smells like fresh bread and a hint of citrus.
A Curated Gift Basket Built With Intention
The owner was in, and when I told her I had completely dropped the ball on timing, she smiled and simply asked:
- Who are your clients?
- Where are they moving?
- How many kids?
- What colors are in the new home?
From there, she built a gift basket that honestly felt more thoughtful than what I had originally planned.
What We Included
- Pasta and a beautiful jarred sauce from the pantry section
- Still-warm sourdough from Ingrano Bakery
- The viral Danish-style bread cutter that’s all over Instagram
- Antique French glassware with delicate shell details
- Woven crab accents and lemon-themed napkin holders
- A straw picnic bag printed with lemons to pull it all together
- Pizza seasoning, mocktail cans, and cocktail glitter bombs
It was cozy, playful, and elevated—all tied up in a way that made it feel personal. Not generic. Not rushed. It looked like I had planned it for weeks.
Highlights from the Shop
Imported Pantry Staples
La Ruche’s food section is small but mighty. You’ll find olive oils, specialty seasonings, sauces, pastas, and breads that are often locally sourced or directly imported. It’s the perfect place to build a dinner-themed basket—or just stock your own pantry with things you can’t find at the grocery store.
Thoughtful Home Goods and Tabletop Decor
If you’re into design, this is your playground. Think: hand-dipped taper candles shaped like asparagus, ceramic olive dishes, pizza boards, European dishware, vintage glassware, and linen napkins in soft, coastal colors.
Seasonal and Themed Gift Items
Every corner feels intentional. Whether it’s lemon-forward decor in the summer, pumpkin napkin rings in the fall, or hand-poured seasonal candles, it’s easy to walk in and find something that feels “just right” for the occasion.
Pro Tips for Visiting La Ruche
Don’t be fooled by the size.
The shop is small but layered. Take your time and look behind, under, and between displays. You’ll miss things if you rush.
Tell the owner what you’re looking for.
This is not a grab-and-go shop. The experience is in the curation. Share your budget, who it’s for, and a few details—they’ll guide you from there.
Go on bread days.
If you’re building a basket around food or entertaining, visit when they stock fresh bread from Ingrano. It sells out fast.
Mocktail fans, take note.
The rotating stock of canned mocktails, botanical syrups, and cocktail embellishments is unmatched. You’ll want to stock up even if you’re not gifting.
A Reminder That Local Always Wins
What started as a total meltdown turned into one of the most joyful shopping experiences I’ve had in a long time. Not only did La Ruche save the day, it raised the bar.
Whether you’re a real estate agent needing a last-minute client gift, a party guest looking to bring something special, or just someone craving a spark of creativity, this shop delivers.
It’s a gem. One that deserves more attention. And I’ll absolutely be back.
Follow La Ruche on Instagram: @laruchesevernapark
They post updates on new arrivals, seasonal items, and shop hours.
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