SO MUCH SHOPPING — SO LITTLE TIME!
Do you have too much shopping left to do and so little time left in which to do it? No worries. Below is a list of wonderful shops conveniently located right on the Hill where you can find everything and anything you need or want to buy for the holidays. The list, which was drawn from the gift guide posted in the community newspaper Hill Rag, is the work of Julia Robey Christian, the Executive Director of the Capitol Hill Association of Merchants and Professionals CHAMPS. Admittedly, this is a really long blog, but the clock is ticking. So, for those of you who are a bit leery about skirting the ethics rules and using your government computer to engage in internet shopping, and for those of you who simply prefer a more personal touch when it comes to gift buying/giving, just read on to find the solutions to your shopping woes. As Julia and the folks at CHAMPS like to say, Happy Hilladays!
Tricia Ferrone/Capital LifeWorks http://www.capitallifeworks.com/
Art & Soul Walking into this tres belle boutique is like sneaking into the enormous walk-in closet of your most stylish and decadent friend, with its walls of gorgeous women’s wear, fabulous handmade jewelry and exquisite Italian leather bags, but everything is for sale! Tucked into the 200 block of Pennsylvania, Marjorie Tuttle’s upscale shop is easy to miss, unless you’re lucky enough to know its there. If you’re looking for gifts with a “wow” factor, check out these fabulous fur and feather hats and scarves or these chic, brightly colored Nina Bossi bags. 225 Penn Ave. SE, 202.548.0105.
Blue Iris Flowers Angie and Issiah Brunson are well loved, enduring fixtures here on Capitol Hill. With the fresh, fanciful beauty of their floral designs and the convenient location of their shop – inside Eastern Market’s South Hall – whether you need an arrangement to compliment a holiday dinner or a bouquet to say, “sorry, I missed dinner,” the Brunsons are there for you and likely will be for a long time. 225 7th St. SE, 202.547.3588.
Capitol Hill Books You can’t judge a book by its cover, and this is particularly true of Capitol Hill Books. The unadorned storefront and handwritten signs give no hint to the intrigue and wonder within. With two cozy floors of quality used books, rare books and first editions (like this two volume, first edition of The South American Gentleman’s Companion, by Charles H. Baker, a visit to this tome treasure trove can steal away your afternoon. If you’re lucky enough to spot the owner, Morton “Jim” Toole, do have a word with him. He is frank, funny and as fascinating as his bookstore. 657 C St. SE, 202.544.1621
capitolhillbooks-dc.com.
Clothes Encounters of a Second Kind Linda McMullen has a discerning eye when it comes to her consignments and nary an item is accepted without her sayso. Delving into the racks of designer clothes and accessories, it’s impossible not to notice the quality, the style and the seasonal relevance she demands in her collection. One area Linda’s not so tough? Her prices. Pop in to fi nd something for the well-heeled woman on your list. A vintage fur? A silk scarf? Or perhaps a dazzling piece of costume jewelry that says, “I went all out,” when you really just went to see Linda. 202 7th St. SE, 202.546.4004.
Chateau Animaux How do you say, “Baby, it’s cold outside,” in dog? No matter, the turn of season is enough cause to stop by the Chateau and pick up a handmade Chilly Dog sweater ($29.99-$43.99) for your “beast” friend. Not into wearables? Check out the plethora of pet toys or holiday inspired cookies in the Animaux “Ba(r)kery.” This upscale pet supply store, brought to you by Dennis Bourgault and Michael Suddath, has a unique product mix of top-quality foods, treats and provisions, fish and aquarium needs, a grooming salon and a self-service dog wash. 524 8th St, SE, 202-544-4660 chateau-animaux.com.
Chat’s Liquors This popular local purveyor of beer, wine and spirits has served the Hill since the early 1900s. In 1979 the Williams family turned the key and took over. They have been here ever since. Bernie Williams deftly meets the needs of his diverse clientele by treating them like his quality vintages. Some need time to breathe, while others are best served immediately. With a broad knowledge of his merchandise, Bernie as a recommendation for any occasion, like this delicious, award-winning, seven-year vintage vertical of Lauterbach Cellars Russian River Pinot Noir (bottles start at $44.99). 503 8th St. SE, 202-544-4660, chatsliquors.com.
Dawn Price Baby Shopping at Dawn Price is as easy as A, B, C, D. “A” sales associate is there to help, whether you know what “layette” is or not. “B”-eautiful baby items and bountiful gift ideas (like this Little Packrats horse backpack, $29.99) are displayed with care, making browsing a pleasure. “C” is for the crazy-cool, completely cute clothes they carry. And “D” is for the dude diaper bags, which spare Dad the shame of carrying Mom’s Petunia Pickle Bottom. From the useful to the decadent, the fun to the functional, this singular baby boutique has it all. 325 7th St. SE, 202.543.2920, dawnpricebaby.com.
DC Styles Want to take your man from the cusp of cool to the height of hipness? Slide over to DC Styles on H Street, NE and let owner Moe Abdi guide you through his chic shop filled with au courant European fashions for men and women. Whether your preferred look is dress or casual, DC Styles has a wide selection of jeans, jackets, dress shirts, T-shirts, footwear and accessories to satisfy all tastes. Steal Moe’s look: Pazzo sport jacket ($249), Ko’s T-shirt ($69) and Rock Star jeans ($169). 1342 H St. NE, 202.388.3290.
Dunkin Donuts There on 8th and Penn, like a beacon of caffeinated hope, stands our dear Dunkin Donuts. The double D has provided the eastern seaboard with a healthy coffee buzz since long before the word “barista” entered the general vocabulary. They power us through our days with fi ne brew and yummy donuts, but did you know they also offer a fine selection of packaged gifts coffees, accessories and gift cards? Next time you pop in for a pick-me-up grab a gift for your favorite java junkie. 801 Penn Ave SE, 202.543.3923, dunkindonuts.com
Dynamic Wellness Pass into this curious storefront and be greeted by certified health consultant, Nate Mines, a man so cheerful and charming you’ll want to know what vitamin he’s taking. Because Dynamic Wellness is all about customer health and happiness, he’ll gladly show you. This spacious store offers a variety of health supplements, wholistic products for home and body and beautiful African jewelry, clothing and art. This soap stone chess set ($50) would make an excellent gift for the thinker on you list. Is your thinker a novice? Dynamic Wellness hosts free chess classes every Friday night. 402 H St. NE, 202.547.0163, dynamicwellness.biz.
Eastern Market Pottery On the south end of Eastern Market’s South Hall you’ll find Eastern Market Pottery’s shingle hanging atop the basement staircase. Follow the stairs down, ring the bell and one of the talented potters in residence will invite you in. The studio’s shop, small compared to their vast workspace, is plentifully stocked with the artists’ wares, each piece an original, each striking. Thrown and fired in house, these fine, functional pieces (microwave, oven and dishwasher safe, from $5-$50) make for great gifts.Know an aspiring potter? Sign them up to throw some clay. 225 7th St. SE, 202.544.6669, easternmarketpottery.com
Fairy Godmother Books & Toys Most only dream of having a fairy godmother, but we here on the Hill have one to call our own: Roberta Blanchard.Step into Jack and Roberta Blanchard’s magical book and toy store and prepare for a fl ight of fancy. Tall bookshelves, packed with everything from old school classics to YA vampires to tales in French and Spanish. Beyond books,find toys galore, from Lego, Playmobil, Fisher Price, dolls, collectible (see this “Dutch” Madame Alexander doll, $89) to cuddly, balls, fi gurines, do-dads, and plenty of princess supplies. 3197th St. SE, 202.547.5474.
Eastern Market & the Flea Market at Eastern Market Grab a coffee and croissant from a local cafe, assume a nice slow pace and amble into the grand gift buffet that is Eastern Market Flea Market. Open every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 6pm, this old world bazaar offers over 175 exhibitors, artists and designers with wares to stir your shopping soul. Peruse the wide selection of handmade pottery, jewelry, ceramics, crafts, antiques, furniture and textiles. While you wander, keep an eye out for that classic flea market staple, the idiosyncratic knick-knack that makes you go “oooh”. “Oooh,” means it’s meant to be. Just like you, drinking coffee and strolling the market next weekend. 225 7th St. SE. easternmarket.net.
Folger Library To be aware of this gift shop, or not to be aware, it’s really no question. Thou must stop in. No more than a tiny alcove, the shop is brimming with such stuff as gifting dreams are made: art, cookbooks, paper dolls, jewelry, board games, costume pieces, all manner of multi-media, even Shakespearean fortune cookies ($5.95-$7.95). A fan of folly? Check out “Shakespeare’s Schnozzz” ($21.95) a tissue box made from Willie’s head, or the “Disappearing Wives of Henry VIII” Mug ($12.95). Pour in a piping beverage and the unlucky ladies disappear, leaving behind their names and foul fates. 201 E.Capitol St. SE, 202.675.0312, www.folger.edu.
Forecast This fashionable front rolled in thirty years ago with a high pressure system of style and sophistication. In that time seasons have changed, but Forecast continues to offer timeless collections. On the first floor, find heavenly home décor,delightful dishware (like this meticulously crafted botanical earthenware from Capetown, Africa’s Mustardseed & Moonshine in Lettuce Leaf, $35-$250), lavish bath products and gifts, and the new greeting card corner. Upstairs discover lux designer clothing, exceptional accessories and the sleekest shoe collection around. 218 7th St. SE, 202.547.7337, forecaststore.com.
Frager’s Hardware This friendly, old-fashioned hardware store has been satisfying customers on the Hill since 1920. From their garden department, to their paint supply store and rental shop, Frager’s has whatever you require. Need adornments to trim the tree? Presents for pets, parents or partners? Toys for the tots? They’re all here. Check out the Frager’s Starter Tool Box (Retail value: $45, Frager’s price: $25) styled by Bob “the tool man” Tappe. Transform the tool-averse person in your life into a dexterous DIY’er with this comprehensive collection. 1115 Penn. Ave. SE, 202.543.6157, fragersdc.com.
Frame Of Mine Your poster from the Uffizi, the ’04 Red Sox World Series program, and the inky handprints of your toddler (now sixteen) have been gathering dust in your closet for too long. Take your cherished memories and naked art to the talented framers at Frame of Mine. Whether you choose full-service framing or the new, DIY option, the on-site professionals will provide you with expert advice on the best framing approach. Acid free mats, top quality frames, conservation framing and custom hanging are available, as well as gift certifi cates of any denomination. 522 8th St. SE, 202.543.3030, frame-of-mine.com.
George’s Place Ltd. George is not simply a man. George is an institution. Well,George’s Place is. Proudly serving the greater DC area for over 40 years, George and his staff have taken pride in helping the distinguished gentleman fi nd the proper look for any occasion. Specializing in well-cut, fine-fitting suits and dress wear this stylish store caters to all physical builds. Finish out your look with their handsome hats, caps, accessories and footwear that will have you feeling blue this Christmas.Blue suede, that is. Check out Coronado’s blue suede “Cagney” ($69.95), and Stacy Adams’ Quintin blue suede loafers ($59.95). 1001 H St NE, 202.397.4113.
Ginkgo Gardens Wander through this dreamy garden haven, with its lush plant life, blooming fl ora and trickling fountains, and you will feel like you’re lost in meditation, but this “happy place” exists. Roam through the maze of accessories, antiques, statuary and fi ne ornamentation, like this medium size terrarium case delicately dressed with moss, plants and orchids ($163.91). Shop for gifts, your tree, holiday greens and holly sprigs, and leave Ginkgo Gardens with the added bonus of bliss. 911 11th St. SE, 202.543.5172, ginkgogardens.com.
Greenworks New to the neighborhood but not to fl oral design, Greenworks has been beautifying the Washington area for twenty years. Their stunning arrangements and gourmet gift baskets would infuse any recipient with comfort and joy. And hey have gift items as well such as pillows decorated with pooches, bejeweled frames, dazzling Christmas decorations, colorful candles, incense sticks, fun Scala Collezione hats, unique bags and purses, jewelry, and this amazing beaded owl purse ($259.95).660 Penn. Ave. SE, 202.548.0011, greenworksflorist.com.
Groovy Gifts & Toys The two groovy guys are together again under one groovy roof and we think that’s… groovy! With their discerning taste and delightful humor, Manuel and Dennis have fi lled their shop with an eclectic mix of puzzles, tableware, toys, home décor, dress-up costumes, cocktail glasses, craft supplies, jewelry, and more. Groovy’s exceptional card selection alone, running the gamut from artistic to sadistic, is worth the visit. Groove on down 8th St. for holiday supplies, decorations and presents for the wee ones, like this wooden Skuut balance bike ($112), winner of awards from Dr. Toy and Creative Child Magazine. 425 8th St. SE, 202.544.6633, groovydc.com
Hill’s Kitchen It’s hot in here, and it’s not just Hill’s Kitchen’s new cooking classes that are heating up the place. More than an owner, lovely local Leah Daniels is a hostess, and her store’s warm, homey atmosphere makes shopping here a pleasure. With its cutting edge kitchen products, top of the line pot and pans,broad collection of cookbooks and aesthetically pleasing accessories, Hill’s Kitchen is the hottest gourmet kitchenware store around. Stuff your favorite culinary artist’s stocking with an assortment of colorful cooking utensils and this handsome pirate chef apron ($34) from local designer Jon Wye. 713 D St. SE, 202.543.1997, hillskitchen.com
Homebody This fabulous home store offers a distinctive array of contemporary home furnishings, personal accessories, and original art works. Brimming with beautiful furniture designs, modern kitchen supplies and decorative fare, an item from Homebody can elevate the look of any home. Their vast inventory spans from useful, to artistic, to distinctive. Featuring many local artists, like the breathtaking jewelry designs of Paul Kerkhoven (check out Paul’s attractive cuffl inks), the ladies at Homebody have an eye for the superbly designed. 715 8th St. SE, 202.544.8445, homebodydc.com.
The Library of Congress Shop If you’re wondering where the wild things really are, they’re here at the Library of Congress, waiting for you to start the wild rumpus! (Where the Wild Things Are whimsical soft stuffed toys, $14-$23.) On the bottom fl oor of the Library of Congress’ Jefferson building, just inside the doorway, you’ll find the Library of Congress Shop. A sprawling store chock full of distinctive items from the Library’s wide collection, including exhibit related items, facsimiles, souvenirs, prints, photographs, cards, jewelry, personal accessories, DC paraphernalia, toys, trinkets and books for the whole family. 101 Independence Ave, SE, 202.707.3895, loc.gov/shop.
Marvelous Market Capitol Hill On the corner of “meet” and “greet” you’ll find the aptly named café, where the community of Capitol Hill comes together to sip coffee and sup on the fine food items stocked inside. When Seth Shapiro opened this marvelous storefront he created a place for us to congregate and share. Come by for tea and a scone and pick up wines, cheeses, gourmet and gifty items of all kinds while you’re at it. (Tea Spot Steepware Steeping Mugs, $15.99-$19.99.) 303 7th St SE, 202.544.7127, marvelousmarket.com.
Merry Go Round This cute H Street shop, offering gently worn children’s clothing, is a must-see for mamas. Charlene Anderson has put together a wonderful collection of children’s clothes, from darling to hip, daywear to designer, and priced them reasonably.Check out the baby room in back for sweet layette items, or browse the front room for big kids. Looking for something dressy to put your petit prince or princess for the endless round of holiday events? Charlene has a fine selection of festive outfits that will make even the naughtiest toddler look oh so nice. 1244 H. St. NE, 202.236.3948.
Monkeys’ Uncle Always smiling, joking, and handing out cookies from their cookie jar, “uncles” Jay Keegan and Michael McFadyen make shopping here a pleasure. Hill parents have fallen for them too, popping in regularly with outgrown kiddie clothes and leaving with new-found, well-fi tting togs. This recycled clothing shop, offering gently worn, quality consignments (from infant to preteen to maternity) is run by the credo, “Reduce, Recycle, Reuse and Rethink.” Keep the kiddies cozy this winter with a jacket from Monkeys’ Uncle (Obermeyer ski parka, $85). 323 7th St., SE, 202.543.6471, monkeysuncleonthehill.com.
My Eye Dr. The skilled optometrists and sales associates at this new neighborhood shop are happy to take care of anyone and strive to satisfy with their free lifetime cleaning and adjustments, and best-price guarantee. This total vision care store offers fabulous frames from high-end designers like Oakley, Oliver Peeples, Maui Jim, Lafont, Michael Kors, and Coach, just to name a few. Cut the winter glare and give the gift of haute eyeware this holiday season with these his & her Prada sunglasses (men’s SPR54I, $430 & women’s SPR01H,$460).233 Penn Ave, SE, 202.544.9220, myeyedr.com.
Newman Gallery Established as a custom framing business, Newman has become a local gallery of note, showcasing the work of exceptional artists. Owner Michelle Newman’s wide palate of styles and mediums has inspired her fi ne collection of original drawings, hand woven fabrics, clay pieces and paintings, like Rossi Kramen’s “Near to the Metro in Paris,” (oil on canvas, 9″ X 11″, framed in a beautiful gold frame, $350). And while Michelle carries on this artistic love affair, she continues to offer high quality framing and museum-worthy preservation. 513 11th St. SE, 202.544.7577, newmangallery.com
Nouveau Fleur Debbie Moultry’s store, offering bountiful bouquets, gorgeous greenery and detailed designs, feels more “loft living room” than formal flower shop. Relax on the leather sofa and breathe in the soothing smells of Debbie’s Trapp Private Garden Candles. Fragrant as lush gardens, these exclusive, Oprah-endorsed candles could be a Christmas “favorite thing.” In addition to her floral design skills, Debbie is also a master gardener, so cut a sprig of rosemary (signifying remembrance) to remind yourself to call Debbie when spring arrives and your bulbs do not. 500 H St. NE, 202.543.8616.
P & C Market “P” is for Pablo, of such excellent taste, who partnered with “C,” the stylish Chase. They opened a store with fine wine, cheese and more, and transformed a tired old Hill corner store! The prettily packaged edibles and gourmet products are delightful. They’ve even managed to keep the prices below frightful! The thing that they have that you really must see is their exclusive collection of Mariage Freres tea (tins $22, sachets $21). Buy a tin and grant someone’s holiday wishes. 1023 East Capitol St SE, 202.365.5100
Pawticulars If your dog simply stares at you when you say simple commands like “sit,” “no,” and “give me my shoe,” we have the ideal gift for your contrary canine. It’s time for Fido to get schooled by Pawticular’s dog trainer, Rebecca Goliani. (Private or group, starting at $100) While you’re visiting this barkworthy boutique make sure you browse around the displays and shelves of treats, supplies and high-end pet foods. Inquire about dog-walking and pet-sitting services, then go home, tap into Expedia and book away. Mele Kalikimaka! 407 8th St. SE, 202.546.PETS, pawticulars.com.
Peregrine Espresso Thinking with their business beans, owners Ryan and Jill Jensen placed their fingers on the pulse of the local caffeine-loving crowd and created magic. While it’s not always possible to find a seat at this hip café, you’ll always be able to find a hot cup of Counter Culture coffee. Made fresh for every customer, Peregrine’s brew is downright divine. Next time you’re in take a gander at this cool Peregrine coffee mug ($8) and Beehouse dripper ($15). Add a handful of Peregrine’s enchanted beans and you’ll be able to create coffee magic at home. 660 Penn Ave. SE, 202.629.4381, peregrineespresso.com.
The Remix Vintage She walked in, all legs and lips, her cynicism a circling hawk about to seize its prey. I knew what she was thinking. Would this vintage store be like the others? A jumbled mess of dated dresses and horrible eighties’ attire? Her dagger stare softened into butter knives when she saw that this time it was different. Classic designer evening gowns, cocktail dresses, fur-trimmed jackets, gloves that stretch up a woman’s arm from New York to Los Angeles, and gems that would make any dame push her granny under a Pontiac. Everything is laid out easy. So easy, it was going to be hard. 645 Penn Ave, SE 202.547.0211, remixvintage.com.
Riverby Books Step through the gate, across the brick courtyard, past the trickling fountain and enter this charming resale bookshop. From fine literature to political writing, historical tomes to philosophy, stories of fact and fiction, this amply stocked neighborhood bookstore is arranged for easy browsing. Downstairs find additional nonfiction, inexpensive paperbacks and children’s books. The fi nest and most comprehensive assemblage of books at Riverby is owner Steve Cymrot’s impressive collection of Washingtoniana. Exhibited proudly in the heart of the store, it’s clear to see that Steve holds DC close to his.
17 E. Capitol St. SE, 202.543.4342, riverbybooks.com.
Schneider’s Of Capitol Hill We’ve all wandered aimlessly through liquor store wine sections and found them to be veritable ghost towns when it comes to service. This is not the case at Schneider’s. With eight consultants in the wine department alone, customers practically have their own sommelier. Whether you’re looking for vino verde or a valuable vintage the savvy staff at Schneider’s has a recommendation, like this Gus Anderson Eagles Trace Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2003 Napa vintage is an immediate delight and will only continue to improve over time (on sale at halfprice, $39.99). 300 Mass Ave. NE, 202.543.9300, cellar.com.
Sidamo Coffee And Tea The large Ethiopian coffee pot displayed on Sidamo’s storefront is the first indication you’re about to have a unique coffee experience. Step inside and the first thing you see in this quaint café is the bean roaster where owners Kenfe and Yalemzwed roast their quality Ethiopian shade-grown, fair trade coffee daily. Prefer tea? Try one of their 28 aromatic varieties of international loose teas. Give the gift of Sidamo’s fine flavors with their exceptional gift baskets ($10-$60) and pop by for the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, held every Sunday. 417 H. St. NE, 202.548.0081, sidamocoffeeandtea.com.
Stitch DC Owner, author and gifted craftswoman Marie Connolly opened this mecca for knitters and crochetiers in 2004 and it has thrived ever since. As much sanctuary as store, customers are encouraged to curl up in a cozy chair and cast on. Knit, kibitz, and when you drop a stitch you can rely on the talented salespeople to save your skein. Know a knitter who dreams of designing? Pick them up some yummy yarn and this fabulous Noni purse pattern that encourages knitters to make their own unique statement (all under $50). 731 8th St. SE, 202.544.8900, stitchdc.com.
Surroundings With over 30 years of floral and landscape design experience, Charles Hudman brings an accomplished eye and distinct creative vision to his work whether designing for a large party, wedding or corporate event. When you visit Surroundings, he will invite you into his parlor, Southern gentleman that he is, to discuss your design desires. Very quickly Charles will feel like an old friend you trust implicitly. And you should! Let Charles decorate your home for the holidays, from foyer to terrace to tannenbaum, and he’ll surround you with Christmas merriment. 1023 E. Capitol St. SE, 202.546.2125, surroundings.biz.
Sweet Magnolia Yolanda Vaughan’s darling boutique has an air of sweet sophistication and homey comfort. Nibble on one of Yolanda’s home-baked cookies as you peruse the fine gifts and home accessories,including cards, candles, throws, jewelry, stemware,stationary, artwork, ornaments, bags, baby gifts, textiles and indulgent products for bath and body. Liven up your New Year’s Eve party with an array of colorful MoMo Panache glasses (martini glass, $19.99) or simply invite Yolanda. As enchanting as the store’s inventory may be, it’s the engaging owner who makes a visit to Sweet Magnolia such a treat. 703 8th St. SE, 202.232.3707.
Two Lions Antiques & Interiors Celebrating her 25th anniversary here on the Hill, Two Lions’ owner Janet Crowder loves her work, and it shows in her refined collection of antiques. Handsome furnishings, elegant stemware, classic sterling silver, fi ne china and charming accents like these stained glass Faith, Hope and Charity angel lights ($26 each) fill out this two floor shop, along with contemporary lamps, striking handmade vases, mirrors and modern furniture pieces. Looking to transform your home décor? Janet also does design and appraisal work. Call on her for her polished point of view. 507 11th St. SE, 202.546.5466.
Union Station Sleek yoga pants and a hot tee from Lucy for your sister. From B. Dalton, Dan Brown’s new book for your brother. An Obama mug from America’s Spirit for your Republican uncle (who you love to rile), a shave and haircut for Dad at Art of Shaving, L’Occitane shea butter hand cream for Mom, and thongs for your niece (you can’t believe she asked for them!) from Victoria’s Secret. Don’t forget to stop at Godiva. You deserve chocolate for fi nishing your Christmas shopping early. Now, pull out a dollar – have to pay for parking. 50 Mass Ave. NE. 202.289.5154 unionstationdc.com.
The Village On the corner of 7th and N. Carolina is The Village. Stroll up the pretty garden path and into Claire Southerlin and Alan Braley’s delightful gallery where they have gathered an eclectic mix of clothing, crafts, textiles, home goods, and accessories. Stare longingly through the glass cases at Claire’s carefully crafted jewelry, or take in the bold colors and great lines of Alan’s Giclée prints. Under Mr. Braley’s skilled stylistic eye, these “giclees” have surpassed the term “print” to become an art form in their own right ($60-$125). 705 N. Carolina Ave. SE, 202.546.3040, thevillageoncapitolhill.com.
Volanni Floral Secreted down an alley, hidden inside a carriage house is Michael Lanni’s Volanni. With a background in Italian Renaissance art and landscape design, Michael brings a fresh look to floral artistry. More sculpture than simple arrangement, his pieces are stunning. With dramatic grasses bent around bright orchid blooms, purple hydrangea and curly willow, his work inspires a feeling of meditative serenity. For exceptional arrangements that go beyond “wow” all the way to “om,” call Michael. 218 9th St. SE, 547.1603, volanni.com.
Wireless Zone Ah, modern technology. Improving quality of life with gadgets that think for us. This shop’s tech savvy staff can connect you to the latest, sleekest wireless technologies like this holiday’s hot gift gadget, The Droid (from $299.99). With blazing fast 3G internet, turn-by-turn navigation from Google maps, 5-megapixel camera with fl ash, 16GB removable memory, a replaceable battery, and more apps, all at once, shouldn’t you go Droid this Christmas? 427 8th St. SE, 202. 364.1911, wirelesszone.com.
Woven History/Silk Road Dr. Mehmet Yelcin’s love of history and old-world artistry is woven into each of his beautiful rugs and smoothed into the brushstrokes on his hand-painted furniture. Traveling all over Asia and the Middle East, Dr. Yelcin uses his discerning eye to find the extraordinary artifacts he carries in his shop, and the result is more ancient bazaar than carpet store. While the tiles, pottery, dishware and collectibles are worth the visit, it’s the handcrafted weavings that stand out. Like this exquisite rug woven on Woven History’s own looms in Pakistan using traditional techniques and hand-spun wool ($1,000). 311-315 7th St. SE, 202.543.1705, wovenhistory.com.