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Whether window shopping or in search of the perfect gift, these women-owned businesses in Washington, DC offer something for everyone.
Virginia Blanca Arrisueño started Steadfast Supply in 2016 as a pop-up incubator for independent designers and brands. The community-driven concept derived from Arrisueño’s latin upbringing, family entrepreneurial success, her mother and father’s interests and her own background as a fashion designer. Now, the same mission applies to the brick-and-mortar at The Yards which offers unique gifts from a variety of makers, including candles, books, jewelry, homeware and handmade items.
There’s no better way to pay witness to DC’s creator community than by stepping inside a Shop Made in DC location. Back in 2016, the DC city council passed legislation to certify, promote and support local artisans and businesses through the “Made in DC” program, which now has more than 300 members. A year later, community-based business consultant Stacy Price, a champion for area artisans, got together with Neighborhood Restaurant Group’s Michael Babin to launch the Shop Made in DC concept, which now has numerous locations. You can pick up everything from locally sourced mumbo sauce cider to original artworks, jewelry, home goods and legitimately cool DC souvenirs.
Stop and smell the flowers in Petworth at Flowers by Alexes. Although owner and namesake Alexes Haggins started in real estate, she is now continuing her father's legacy. Bernard Haggins started as a delivery driver for the previous florist, became the owner himself and started a family and community in the neighborhood. With decades of family history and a desire to reconnect to that community, Flowers by Alexes reopened in 2022 on the corner around from the original location and offers fresh and bold floral arrangements to the DC area.
A mobile boutique bookshop that describes itself as “by and for people of color,” Duende District invites anyone and everyone into its collaborative pop-ups. Owner Angela Maria Spring is a Latino poet, editor, journalist and has been a bookseller for nearly two decades. Her shops offer a curated selection of the best new trade adult and children's books in English and Spanish. Check the Duende District website for updates on pop-up locations.
Give the gift of Cheers in a Box. After in-person events shifted during the pandemic, and with 20 years of industry experience, Jessica Shea sought out to connect with her clients in a different way. Engage with employees, guests and customers with curated gift boxes that feature items from mostly female-owned or local businesses, or personalize the experience even further by creating your own mix or adding a virtual engagement component.
What started 30 years ago as a hat shop in Union Station has now grown into a DC sensation. Anna Fuhrman’s Proper Topper offers curated gift boxes, children’s items, DC-inspired gifts and, of course, lots of hats. Whether you’re looking for a haute look as the crowning achievement of a Kentucky Derby party or some stylish new stationary, the shop features a vast array of products that span fashion, food and fun accessories. You can shop online or check out the brick-and-mortar location in the Cathedral Commons in Upper Northwest.
What started as a creative outlet for owner Amanda Preske’s love of both art and science eventually evolved into a thriving business for STEM-inspired creations. Because Science celebrates the fusion between art and STEM, offering handmade products ranging from circuit board jewelry and artworks to quirky items like stuffed axolotls and periodic table accessories.
The oldest Black-owned flower shop in the District has been a family-run institution on U Street since 1945. Currently owned and operated by Stacie and Kristie, the granddaughters of the original founder, Lee’s Flower Shop has been curating and delivering outstanding floral arrangements for any special occasion for 75 years. Peruse the shop’s bouquets, gift baskets and other products online, and keep in mind: Valentine’s Day is just around the corner.
Whether you’re in DC or back home, you’re always going to have stuff with you. Scout Bags is here to help with that. The local company creates bags and accessories with five things in mind: pattern (updated seasonally), function, durability, affordability and fun.
Founded by Becky Waddell, who recognized the need for a compassionate approach to beauty, Take Care offers a curated selection of organic and plant-based goods, ranging from luxurious facial masks to vegan cosmetics, designed to enhance self-care. Customers can explore natural skincare and lifestyle products, attend events and get personalized intel from a knowledgeable and caring team dedicated to helping the community thrive.
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