The Two Bertram's

[Sharkle]

Sadly, yesterday I had what will be my last visit to Bertram's Inkwell in downtown Baltimore. At 40-50% off everything in the store (with all Montblanc cases mysteriously empty ), the store was unusually busy. Nevertheless, free donuts were offered and all of the sales staff showed patience and ethusiasm toward every customer, even if they were only looking for refills. These gentleman and lady (even Bert was there) never tire of pen talk and love to offer their own personal pens for testing. Just last week I took my brother to the Bertram's in White Flint Mall (upscale mall in Rockville), where the sales people were friendly and very helpful as well. I am glad that store will survive, but I can't help feeling the genuine loss of the Baltimore store, where I got to try for the first time a Mottishaw-tuned nib. I just don't see this happening in a mall store. Not impossible, but not the norm in my experience. I am very grateful for the excellent service I've received in both stores, but I loved the casual hominess and comradeship I felt in Baltimore. Those people just plain love pens. If anyone is near the area, it might be worth a visit in their last week, especially if you're looking for a Visconti or an Aurora. I wish the Bertram's people good luck, and hope they or someone as good opens another store near me. Oh well, back to buying my ink online. *sigh*

 

 

Edited to add Aurora

Edited March 23, 2008 by Sharkle