This is a column written and sponsored by Arlington Arts / Arlington Cultural Affairs, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
What started as a partnership with Arlington Public Library and a showcase for Arlington artisans and makers, has grown to attract regional media attention and many new shoppers. Soon after the shop opened, five vendors, Mira Jean textile design, Can you Solve Me puzzles, Jules Jewels, Arlington Weaves and Dennison lane home goods were interviewed in the studios of FOX5 DC.
Even the hosts were stumped to arrange the asymmetrical ‘Can You Solve Me’ puzzle pieces into a simple shape. Also, on Friday, December 1, NBC 4 hosted their morning segment ‘Live in the Community’ on site at the Courthouse shop for the entire 6 a.m. hour. Plenty of coffee from Commonwealth Joe got the day off to a great start.
There are still lots of items in the shop that are perfect for the office gift exchange, visiting holiday relatives and the friend who has everything. Coffee, tea towels, wine stops, t-shirts, wine bottle bags, handwoven yoga mat straps and plenty of chocolate are all available. And two weekly lobby pop-up vendors are still to come.
On Thursday, December 14 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., shoppers will be treated to edible and wearable eye candy. Ruth Barzel, master jewelry designer who uses fine metals and semi-precious stones to make delectable and timeless pieces that suit anyone’s style will show off her beautiful work. The pieces are meant to reflect the wearer and be worn daily as the new favorite.
The final weekly pop-up on Thursday, December 21 will satisfy any sweet tooth. Kingsbury Chocolates is the expert in connecting the sweet experience with unusual ingredients that take the confections to a new level. Rob Kingsbury has never been one to stick to one type of sweet product. Who knew his lavender lemonade mix was the secret ingredient to a local restaurant’s summer ice pop? Come for some sweets, sample some surprises. Finish your holiday shopping in one unique place and support Arlington entrepreneurs.
The Plaza Shop is located on the 1st Floor lobby of 2100 Clarendon Blvd and will be open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. through December 22 unless otherwise noted.