By Maurisa Potts

The Old Town Shop – Where the Past is your Present!

The Old Town Shop officially opened its doors this spring and is a welcome addition to the Alexandria retail community-most especially in Old Town. This cute shop brings to the area a unique take on local gifts that celebrate Alexandria’s charm and historic heritage. The store, located at 105 South Union Street, offers custom gifts and Old Town Alexandria merchandise tailored to visitors and residents alike.

The Old Town Shop not only features a variety of local curated artisan products that are offered at the Old Town Farmers’ Market in the section of the store called “Locals’ Alley”. In addition, the Shop has created unique, custom designed “OTX” and Old Town Alexandria branded merchandise. Other gifts include, gourmet food, books, collectives, and hospitality gifts for tourists and residents. “The Port” is the section of the store that promotes the history of Alexandria known as The Port City, with a representation of twelve (12) Virginia state mile markers to depict the historic importance of Alexandria.

The Shop has a rotating Alexandria focused history exhibition area featuring artifacts from surrounding historic partners such as the Alexandria Archeology Museum, the Office of Historic Alexandria, and George Washington’s Mt. Vernon estate. This is a great place to get a good feel for the history of our city without having to wander through a big museum.

The Locals’ Alley section is dedicated to showcasing a variety of artisans who vend regularly at the Saturday Alexandria Farmers’ Market, giving artists an outlet to have a more permanent presence in a retail space. Examples of vendors that will are featured include Truly Life (bath & body), Capital City Candles (soy candles), Amalthea Ridge (goat milk bath products), Napier Farms (local jams & jellies), Dimitri Olive Farms (olive oil & gourmet vinegars) and Ester’s Granola.

Store Owner and long-time Alexandria resident and business owner Valerie Ianieri decided to open the store concept because she felt there was a lack of unique and custom products for Old Town Alexandria. “We are excited to open a Shop that is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the charm and uniqueness of Old Town Alexandria,” says Ms. Ianieri. “From the Kids Cove to Locals’ Alley, we have custom gifts for everyone, even our vibrant dog community.”

The store also features regular events that will spotlight local vendors, writers, and artisans that strengthen our community.

The Old Town Shop focus is to preserve and promote the history, creativity, and culture of Alexandria locals and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The shop will be open seven days a week. For store hours visit http://www.theoldtownshop.com/.

The Old Town Shop

105 South Union Street

703-684-4682

TheOldTownShop.com