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As you drive through Preston on Dover Road, take a closer look at the corner of Lednum Avenue. There at the corner, close to the ground is a small sign that reads "Crow's Nest.” Drive down about a quarter mile to a large warehouse building, formerly the Harper Oil Company. It had been used as a feed and fertilizer storage building until 2010 when Faye Sterling and her husband purchased the building as well as the storage units next door. They then built 3 other buildings on the property including a child daycare center and a beauty salon.
After not being able to rent out the warehouse, Faye decided to start her own consignment shop. The shop soon evolved to be a gift shop with handmade items from the Amish and other nearby crafters. It's been so successful as a gift shop she no longer takes any consignment items. It's been a 14 year long thriving business for Faye; no small feat considering her tucked away location (like a crow's nest) and getting through the COVID years.
Before moving to Preston in 1990 Faye was a computer operator in the air force in Colorado and then in Virginia. Her husband's sister lived in Preston and frequent visits soon turned into full time living on the Shore. She purchased and renovated an old house in Choptank, Md, with her husband where they both now reside.
Faye finds unique items for her shop like the character sculptures made by Virginia artist Lori Mitchell (see photo). The shop's jewelry is designed and assembled by Faye herself and is also for sale at the Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Hurlock, Md. She also custom makes wreaths and small holiday themed trees complete with ornaments and lights. Faye says, "I like rearranging things and making displays (because) it's satisfying.”
Faye offers advice to aspiring business owners; "have patience and be consistent! Be open when you say you will be open and don't leave just because you have no customers. Stick to your hours and if you do have to close early, be sure to post it online.”
