For many summer visitors, the beach, the boardwalk, world-famous saltwater taffy and family fun all rank high on a trip to Ocean City. But for shoppers in the know, Ocean City is synonymous with Ta-Dah!, a family-owned group of clothing boutiques.
Local residents Deborah Guerriero and her husband, Anthony, opened the original Ta-Dah! in 1991 on 10th Street and Asbury Avenue, the busy shopping street five blocks from the beach at the northern end of Ocean City. In time, their dynasty grew to five stores arrayed between 9th and 10th streets on Asbury.
Each shop has its own theme: accessories; the summer store; contemporary finds; mature looks; and a funky shop for teens (and moms). After watching customers browse from one shop to the next, Ta-Dah! employees coined a phrase: “Ta-dah-hopping.”
What makes these shops different? New items are added daily to the bursting inventory—all reflecting the latest fashions.
But, the real draw may be the attractive prices. With an extensive selection of hip jewelry to be had for $6, American-made cotton separates for $30, and fun dresses for a night out at around $50, it’s easy to walk out with a full shopping bag, while spending less than $100.
“For the out-of-town shopper, there’s no guilt in picking up a dress or two when they’re on vacation,” says Guerriero.
The stores are open year-round. Many summer visitors make a return trip in the fall for heavier sweaters and trendy scarves, or to stock up on Christmas gifts. In the winter, cruisewear is always available—at the summer store, of course.
The Guerrieros’ daughter, Danielle, has gotten in on the act. With her marketing degree from Stockton University, she brings the next generation of ideas to the stores.
My daughter and I always head for the Ta-Dah! stores first whenever we are in Ocean City. They truly have something for every woman at every age!