Twelve years ago, Pam and Keith Foster came to Middleburg and they loved it.

At the time, they were living in St. Louis where Keith had based his golf course design business. They contacted Cricket Bedford and asked her to look for a property for them. After viewing many properties that weren't quite right, they decided to purchase a farm in Kentucky instead and held events in their restored tobacco barn to offer exceptional furniture and decorative pieces reflective of the English Country House and Out of Africa styles they love.

They returned to Middleburg to celebrate last Thanksgiving at The Goodstone, and decided to try one more time to find a home here. The last property they saw turned out to be the perfect fit. Cricket organized the purchase and then found a wonderful site for their new retail venture, "The Outpost," on the shady side of Madison Street.

The charming young couple has created an elegant, individualistic atmosphere at The Outpost that is sure to capture the imagination and fascination of shoppers near and far. From beautiful bench-made leather club chairs that would be comfortably at home at Windsor Castle to authentic antique British campaign furniture, African wildlife photography, art and sporting antiques, this is a perfect shop for discriminating customers.

"I've always wanted to purchase and offer cool things in an exceptional environment," Keith explains, and so many interesting and delightful people have visited the shop during our first week of being open."

"Everything we offer is hand-chosen by either Pam or me. We want to offer things that you won't see anywhere elsethings that have a history and a story behind them."

"We carry only what we love and what we would have in our home" added Pam, whose taste and attention to detail is apparent wall to wall.

Customers, clients and friends will also enjoy the exceptional hospitality at The Outpost. In a private room that is as welcoming and comfortable as a library in a fine home, you will find the perfect place to relax and have a drink while your better half is being measured for his blazer by Mark at Highcliffe Clothiers or while she is deciding on the perfect bracelet with Tom Hayes.

"Shopping can be tiring for individuals who await someone else's purchasing decision. We want to make sure they have a great place to relax while those decisions are being made." Keith's golf design office is located in the back of the building and he is booked for several years in advance at top level private clubs where renovating the course must exceed the expectations of its members.

"Each year I am fortunate to work at three distinguished clubs, and my goal at each one is to carefully execute the restoration work in a seamless fashion."

The shop is a dream come true for both Pam and Keith because it allows them to travel together on buying trips for at least a month each year.

"The shop is so important to us," Keith continues. "I'm traveling extensively for four months each year with my golf projects, but then Pam and I can work together here and it is a lot of fun for us both."

Soon, they leave for their next trip, which will include Africa, Turkey and England and the treasures they find will then make their way to The Outpost.

Please visit The Outpost at 6 South Madison Street, or, if you prefer, telephone 540 687 4094 for an appointment.