Red Orchard is the retail love-child of John Helm and Caroline Liberty, two overly schooled job avoiders who share a fondness for beautiful things and unusual people. In 2002, we pooled all of our resources (one dog, two masters degrees and an abiding appreciation for all things created by hand) and opened our shop in Bethesda.

When people visit for the first time, they often ask, “What sort of shop is this?” Which is a good question, because the answer goes something like this: We are at once a boutique of up-and-coming clothing designers, champions of hand-crafted jewelry and accessories, and purveyors of one-of-a-kind art, pottery, glass and home décor.

Many of our customers tell us that the bowl (or lamp or necklace) they purchased from us has become the favorite thing they own. If you have a chance, please stop by the Orchard, online or in-person, and maybe you’ll find your favorite thing!

With warm wishes,

John & Caroline

P.S. That’s our feet up in the picture, hitting the streets in Boston, on the look-out for crafty artisans. Or a nice piece of fish. Both, if we’re lucky.