What We Bought Last Month For Under $150

Sometimes it's the little things that make a difference. That's why we're sharing what our contributors bought last month for under $150. No matter what you are looking for, Alexandria's small businesses make it easy to shop locally. So the next time you're in need of a little something, remember to shop local!

Meaghan F.: My dear friend had a baby over the summer while I was away, and I am just getting around to putting together her welcome gift. I bought a cute card and sweet bar of chocolate from Penny Post, and I'll round it off with a beautiful flower arrangement from Atelier Ashley Flowers and my personal favorite new-mom gift: a gift card to Daily Harvest so that she can order up a collection of easy to make smoothies, perfect for sustenance in those early days. Now, time to wait with bated breath until I can smoosh this bebe. ($6.75 + $8.50 at Penny Post)

Dr. Lauren: A hand-poured candle from ISO Candles! Currently on my coffee table: The Del Ray Scent. Lighting a scented candle is an essential part of my evening transition from work to home. Scented candles are known to stimulate strong emotions and memories in your brain and, therefore, are a powerful reminder to our nervous systems to start settling down after a long day of work. Check out ISO candles, an Alexandria-based company, online or at a local store like Salon DeZen. ($18 at ISO Candles)

Maura: I went to She's Unique to get my best friend a Birth Flower Necklace, but September was already sold out (I was able to snag an October one for myself), so I found this perfect moon and star chain earring set for her birthday. She's Unique has such great jewelry at really great price points; they always have that perfect piece when I'm looking for a gift. I love layering their necklaces myself, and I want all the tiny earrings. ($28 + $42 at She’s Unique)

Shruti: A sweet pink dotted Leuchtturm from Penny Post! These notebooks are hands down my favorite. As a dance and yoga teacher, I need something durable for planning classes. These experience their fair bit of accidental tosses and tumbles and yet look brand new. Plus, the hardcover makes it easy to jot down notes without a hard surface nearby. ($21.95 at Penny Post)

Andi: These Asha earrings at The Shoe Hive! The daughter of a dear friend left for college in August, and I wanted to give her something to mark the occasion. These earrings are perfect - easy for her to throw on with a sweatshirt as she's headed to class, yet interesting enough to wear for her nights out in New York City! ($125 at The Shoe Hive)