Downtown Ocean City Just Got Sassier! Sassy Scallop Designs Lights Up Winter with Pop-Up Shop

Ocean City, get ready to add a serious dose of “cute, fun, and affordable” to your winter shopping list! Downtown Ocean City is thrilled to welcome Sassy Scallop Designs as they open their exciting winter pop-up shop. Owner Kaitlin Kee-Dayton is setting up shop in the familiar and beautiful space at 409 E 8th Street (Wild Phoenix), bringing her unique brand of joyful accessories and curated local goods to the community from now through April.

Kaitlin’s journey is a fantastic example of turning a challenging time into a creative opportunity. “During the early stages of lockdown, I wanted to pick up crafting again as an outlet,” Kaitlin shared. What started with wreaths and vinyl projects soon evolved into creating earrings, bangle bracelets, and all kinds of jewelry. After two years of crafting for family and friends, Kaitlin took the leap and Sassy Scallops Designs was born. Her entrepreneurial path has been profoundly “challenging but rewarding.” The accomplishment of building something from the ground up and the incredible friendships made along the way have made every moment worthwhile.

When you step into Sassy Scallop Designs, prepare for a delightful shopping experience!  What makes Kaitlin’s jewelry truly unique is its playful spirit. “A lot of my jewelry is just a fun way to express your personality, likes, or hobbies. You’ll find everything from glitter sharks to bows to sushi earrings and everything in between. Most of my jewelry is one-of-a-kind; I don’t make many duplicates, so you won’t see anyone else with the same piece.” Kaitlin prioritizes accessibility. All hooks and posts are lead- and nickel-free, made from solid stainless steel and PVD gold-plated metal to prevent tarnishing and irritation. She even switches out metal hooks for plastic, free of charge. Kaitlin’s inclusive collection is designed so that everyone can find something that works for them.

With the holidays approaching, Kaitlin’s enthusiasm is palpable. While she loves creating Christmas jewelry, she is most excited about a beloved staple she’s been perfecting for years: Oyster Trees! “Christmas is my favorite time of year… I’m the most excited about making Oyster Trees,” she beamed. “I travel to hand-pick shells off the beach for trees, clean them, and make them into trees… I can’t wait for more people to see how cool these are!” In addition to the hand-picked shells, Kaitlin also partners with the Salty Soul Oyster Co. They are providing her with shells after their events.

For Kaitlin, the opportunity to open Sassy Scallops Designs in Ocean City was a no-brainer. “I have always loved how fun downtown Ocean City is. I’m a huge fan of all of the shopping, and I love the restaurants and coffee shops in the area,” she shared.  Ultimately, Sassy Scallop Designs aims to be more than just a store. Kaitlin hopes to “give the community a friendly place to shop small for fun items” and, in turn, support other local creators. Kaitlin is actively building partnerships, proudly featuring three local vendors in the shop:

• Kismet Threads (embroidery)
• Greene House Botanicals (all natural skincare and candles)
• Kimberly Brighton (local author of The Way To Cape May series)

She also plans to host exciting pop-ups all winter, including events with Kimberly Brighton and Where’s Waverly (permanent jewelry).

Kaitlin’s greatest joy? “Knowing that the products I make or carry are becoming a part of someone’s life or for someone special in their life truly makes me so happy.“

This winter pop-up is the perfect addition to downtown Ocean City. Sassy Scallop Designs offers a blend of high-quality, heartfelt, and community-focused shopping. Be sure to stop by and experience the sparkle of Sassy Scallop Designs!