The Queen & The Princess is a family affair. Five years ago my husband suffered a brain aneurysm. Although he survived and is today considered a miracle, at that time the world slipped from under my feet. I believed I was losing the love of my life and was inconsolable.

My wonderful daughter stepped in and took charge, watching over her father like a guardian angel and providing the much-needed emotional support that got me back on my feet.

As time passed, the important question became what was I to do to keep the family going financially. I began to sell costume jewelry at private house parties. And one momentous day, my daughter and I decided to take it to a larger scale. Thus was born the boutique I own today.

Ah, but what to name that boutique? Finally a question with an easy answer: The Queen (me, the mother) and The Princess (my daughter Maggie)!

Our boutique is now almost 2 years old and is surviving its toddler years with gusto! We are proud to offer an array of unique products ranging from elegant Majorica Pearls to funky jewelry to tasteful fashion and home décor accessories. And we are constantly looking to further diversify the treasures we purvey.

We make our home on the main street of charming Malvern, PA, in the Nesting Feathers building. We are located on the ground floor, along with Catalina's Restaurant (www.catalinasrestaurante.com), which is owned and operated by my son Jon, a culinary graduate of the Restaurant School in Philadelphia.

Not only is the shopping great at The Queen and The Princess but also the intimate atmosphere and wonderful conversations you will encounter there!