Christmas is officially 1 week away…1 week! Where has the time gone? If you’re like me, then you likely haven’t even bought any gifts yet and are starting to freak out a little since crunch time is seriously on. Luckily for us Washingtonians, we have tons of local stores and businesses to choose from to find the perfect gift, all while keeping it local and supporting our neighbors. In the spirit of Christmas, I have compiled a list of gift ideas and stores with the focus on DC. Each store/gift idea is a locally operated business, making your gift extra special and extra appreciated by your DMV dwelling friend or loved one. So read up below and start your engines – the 1 week countdown is on, but luckily you won’t have to go far to pick up these gifts!
For the Wino/Foodie:
A Cooking Class from Just Simply…Cuisine.
Location: Woodley Park
Artisan set of oil and vinegar from Ah love Oil and Vinegar.
Location: Pop-up in Union Market and store fronts in Shirlington and Mosaic District
Image credit: Ah love Oil and Vinegar
Tickets to a food tour through DC Metro Food Tours.
Tours include Eastern Market, Capitol Hill, U St, Old Town Alexandria, and more.
Pick out a nice bottle of their favorite type of wine or champagne, or purchase a gift card for their choosing from these local wine shops:
Arrowine, Arlington, VA
Swirl & Sip, Mosaic District
Location: Barracks Row
Location: DC City Center
Image credit: Milkbar
Decadent seasonal chocolates from Co Co Sala.
Because chocolate is a great gift for any occasion!
Location: Penn Quarter and Union Market
Image credit: Co Co Sala
For the Fashionista:
Chic finds from Refine Boutique's Holiday Collection
1. Jocelyn Fur Fingerless Mittens $70 (comes in black, dark grey, natural grey, and natural heather)
2. Jocelyn Knit Beanie With Fur Pom $75 (comes in black, dark grey and beige)
Image credit: Refine
3. Jenny Bird Bowie Pendant $95
Image credit: Refine
4. By Rosie Jane Eau De Parfum in Leila Lou (with notes of pear, jasmine and fresh cut grass) or Tilly (with notes of grapefruit, coconut and a hint of pineapple), $49 for 1.7oz
Image credit: Refine
5. Chaser I Heart Coffee Sweatshirt $79
Image credit: Refine
Location: You can either pick up these goodies from the Refine Showroom near Wisconsin Ave NW/Cathedral Heights, or have them delivered if you are within 20 miles of DC.
DC Flag Necklace, Rachel Pfeffer.
Because every DC lady should have one of these!
Location: Brooklands Art Walk, NE and Proper Topper in Dupont Circle
Large Light Amethyst Purple Crystal Earrings, Dames a la Mode.
Dames a la Mode is a Washington DC based jewelry designer inspired by 18th and 19th century designs.
Location: Online store based in DC
Image credit: Dames a la Mode
Alpaca Patterned Blanket Scarf, DeNada Design.
This handmade alpaca knit scarf is a great addition to winter wardrobes come January/February!
Location: NoMa
Image credit: DeNada Design
Lingerie from Le Bustiere.
Handpick some gorgeous lingerie for your significant other…maybe more of a gift to yourself (amirite?)
Location: Adams Morgan
Image credit: Le Bustiere
Bracelets from 3ShadesChic.
Give the gift of arm candy with these locally handmade power bracelets.
Location: Online store based in DC, or visit their pop-up shop at the Passport to Style Pop-Up on Sunday, Dec 20 (see below).
For the Home Decorator and Art Lover:
DC knick-knacks from Hudson & Crane.
Hudson & Crane carries amazing Wash DC inspired home goods like coasters, glassware, and art. This store is a true favorite of mine and the staff is always friendly and helpful!
Location: Adams Morgan
Image credit: Hudson & Crane
Because it doesn’t get more DC than the White House!
Location: Buy in-person at the National Park Service White House Visitor Center
Tickets to the National Gallery of Art Museum Hack.
A great gift for art lovers- tour the NGA in a different way and learn the gossip, secrets, and conspiracy theories of famous pieces of art in the gallery.
Silliness during the Museum Hack Tour I attended over the summer with Tour Guide, Molly.
Membership to The Kennedy Center.
A gift that keeps on giving, gift a Kennedy Center membership to your performing arts friend or loved one just in time for the fabulous 2016 schedule.
Smithsonian Associates Studio Art Class.
For the aspiring artist or artist who wants to deepen their talent!
Location: Varies by course
For the Man in Your Life:
Vintage American Flag Cufflinks from The Great Republic.
This store is a favorite of mine! The perfect blend of leather goods, first and early editions of various books, prints and posters; and general man-cave goodies.
Location: DC City Center
Image credit: The Great Republic
TOKYObay “Basic” Leather Watch from Proper Topper.
Proper Topper has fun men's accessories like ties, socks, cufflinks, and more.
Location: Dupont Circle
Bosky Wood Framed Sunnies from Avenue Jack.
Avenue Jack also carries other great gift options like clothing and accessories for men.
Location: Dupont Circle
Image credit: Avenue Jack
Holiday Pop-Ups
Its not too late to shop these pop-ups and markets, happening THIS weekend!
Daily through December 23, 2015, 12-8pm
Location: 8th and F St. NW near the Verizon Center
Sunday, December 20, 2015 10am-6pm
Location: Embassy Row Hotel
December 18-20, hours vary by day
Location: Del Ray Artisans Gallery, Alexandria, VA
Saturday, December 19, 10am-6pm
Location: Rhode Island Avenue Center
Happy Shopping!
XOXO
Blonde in the District