This week, we're highlighting picks from our newest addition at Alx&Co., our wonderful Workshop Manager Laurie Loquet! Laurie has spent decades in the restaurant industry but decided to make the switch to retail management with us, and we are so pleased to have her as part of our team. Here are Laurie's highlights of what she's shopping for this year:

From Laurie Loquet: Small Business Saturday is not just for Thanksgiving weekend! A wonderful part of living in Old Town Alexandria is the plethora of independently owned small businesses, local artists, and artisans. I have always been impressed with people who have taken the risk of starting their own business and appreciate all the hard work that goes into it. Over the past few years, supporting our locally owned shops has become even more salient.

Finding the perfect gift for my loved ones brings me so much joy, and if it supports a locally owned business, that makes it even more meaningful.

For My Sweetheart Of A Daughter

What 16-year-old, or anyone, would not want to have this adorable Shaya Durbin Heart Pendant? And this has become a very welcome yearly tradition for the ultimate stocking stuffer.

For My Best Friend:

She is the striking blonde with everything but never enough dangly earrings, so I would love to splurge on these Christina Malle Sapphire Tassel Earrings for her.

Candles are always a great bet with her, and she would be thrilled to know that this gift supports someone who gives back to the community. I love that ISO has the full spread of not only candles, but candle accessories to make the gift feel really special.

For My Sister:

She has traditional taste and loves a monogram. If I act fast, I can get this engraved before Christmas! And, I love this idea as a way for us to reconnect with our own sister "book club."