Annapolis Jewelry Store Marks 20-Year Resilience with Community-Focused Celebration
Zachary's Jewelers commemorated two decades at its downtown Annapolis location by celebrating community support following a devastating fire and launching initiatives to support local entrepreneurs.
Zachary's Jewelers celebrated 20 years at its flagship location at 100 Main Street with a special "Fire & Ice" event that highlighted the jeweler's "Year of Gratitude" initiative. The anniversary celebration honored the Annapolis community that supported the business after a devastating five-alarm fire destroyed its original location in 2005. The event featured live music, tastings from Seasons Olive Oil and special activations from Marco Bicego, including a trunk show and themed lounge.
Owner Steve Samaras emphasized the transformative impact of the 2005 fire, which occurred just days after he lost his father. "Jewelry and buildings can be replaced, but people cannot," Samaras stated. "What mattered most was the way our community rallied around us, helping us reopen in just seven days." Competitors offered temporary space, a local bank provided vault storage, and the landlord closed his souvenir shop to house the jeweler—the same location Zachary's occupies today at zacharysjewelers.com.
The celebration included the presentation of the inaugural Zachary's Small Business Grant and a donation to The Friends of the Eastport Volunteer Fire Company. The $5,000 grant program, an extension of the "Year of Gratitude," received nearly 50 applications from local businesses and recognized those that "bring humanity to retail" by investing in people, serving the community, and operating with empathy and intention.
This year's recipient was Amanda Fisher, founder of ABF Coaching, who helps women in mission-driven roles lead with purpose and impact. Fisher noted, "After spending 20 years in the nonprofit space, I saw firsthand how women make up nearly 75% of the social impact workforce yet remain underrepresented in leadership. That's something I want to change." The grant provides breathing room to continue creating opportunities for female leaders and giving back to the community.
Zachary's journey from devastation to resilience demonstrates how community support can transform tragedy into long-term success. The business has become recognized not only for its fine collections and custom designs but also for its lasting impact on the Annapolis community. The jeweler continues its mission of "bringing humanity to retail" by investing in local traditions, supporting small businesses, and creating meaningful customer experiences that extend beyond transactional relationships.