BERLIN –It’s not just a paint store.
That’s what shop owner Ronna Pishtey says when people ask about her business, The Green Doors. Though it’s known for being the only Annie Sloan Chalk Paint retailer in the area, that’s not all The Green Doors has to offer. The shop, which recently moved to West Ocean City from Snow Hill, features gifts, accessories, furniture and of course, paint.
“The challenge is getting people to know we’re here,” Pishtey said.
Pishtey opened The Green Doors in Ocean Creek Plaza on Route 50 in May. After two years in Snow Hill, she decided to make the move to the north end of Worcester County.
“There’s more traffic and I have a lot of customers up this way,” she said.
Pishtey said it was her experience with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint that originally prompted her to open The Green Doors. She grew up helping her grandfather work on furniture and has for years enjoyed repurposing old pieces. While working on one of her projects, she discovered Chalk Paint, which does not require sanding or priming.
“You can finish a project in a day,” she said.
When she realized it wasn’t being sold anywhere nearby, she made the decision to go into business.
In addition to chalk paint, Pishtey sells Miss Mustard Seed’s milk paint. What makes it unique, she explained, is that it comes in powder form so customers can mix only as much as they need. When added to wood, the milk paint creates a matte-type finish.
“It’s good if you want something more primitive,” Pishtey said.
Because many people haven’t used milk or chalk paint before, Pishtey offers monthly how-to workshops. Chalk Paint 101 will be held in her shop July 11.
“It’s easy for people to learn,” she said.
Pishtey is also inviting customers to her shop for “paint therapy” nights and “bring your own piece” sessions. At the paint therapy event July 9, attendees will have the chance to paint a decorative wooden buoy with Pishtey’s guidance.
“For $40, you can come in for an evening with some girlfriends and make something,” she said.
While Pishtey spends much of her time leading workshops and doing custom work for clients, she also stocks The Green Doors with a wide range of gifts and accessories. Customers can browse a selection of handbags, jewelry, candles and home décor. Pishtey says she’s selected each line of products very carefully.
“These are not commercial products,” she said. “They’re high quality.”
For more information visit www.thegreendoors.com or call 410-251-1119. The store is open by appointment on Tuesday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.