Shopping for the person who already has it all calls for a different kind of gift—the kind that feels thoughtful, unexpected, and a little unforgettable. This guide is all about experiences, heirloom-worthy pieces, and meaningful luxuries.

Shopping for the men in your life can feel impossible, so we pulled together a guide that actually makes it easy. Whether he’s into style, gadgets, travel or the little luxuries he’d never buy for himself, this list has something that’ll make him light up. From practical upgrades to splurge-worthy treats, consider this your go-to cheat sheet for gifts he’ll actually use, appreciate and maybe even brag about later.

Tis the season to shower the people you love with, well, love. And gifts. In this hurried season it can be difficult to wrap your head around what to give someone. Even for me, someone who’s made a living on gift giving. I wanted to share some quick advice that I hope will make things easier for you.

Red Barn Mercantile, Penny Post, and Pippin Toy Co. are excited to bring new offerings this holiday season. From updated hours to private shopping parties and sensory hours, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get the perfect holiday haul.

In Alexandria, Halloween isn’t just a holiday—it’s an art form. Streets glow with purple lights and iridescent spiders, 12-foot skeletons guard front yards and doorways, and friendly rivalries over “most creative” and “most extra” displays are in full swing. Before the candy rush begins, our contributors share how they celebrate spooky season in style.

We’ve been planning since January to bring you the most magical night of the season—our Annual Holiday Unveiling on November 6 from 6–9pm! I’m sharing my top tips to help you make the most of it, from snagging your favorites early to soaking up every bit of holiday cheer.

September in Alexandria has its own magic—cooler mornings on King Street, Art on the Avenue around the corner, pumpkin lattes popping up everywhere, and those first cozy evenings along the waterfront. Our contributors shared how they welcome fall in Alexandria.

October is here, and we’re celebrating our favorite season with a full calendar of events! From a You’ve Got Mail-inspired Pencil Bouquet Bar and holiday tablescape workshop with the Ghostess with the Mostess, to DIY Kaweco fountain pens, pressed flower pumpkins, and even a Family Derby Day at Pippin Toy Co — there’s something for everyone this fall.

Alexandria is packed with charm, history, and must-try experiences, so it’s no wonder friends and family are always dropping in. We asked our contributors to share their can’t-miss recommendations for visitors (and locals looking for a little staycation fun). See which ones made the list and add a few to your own itinerary.

August marks the end of summer fun and the start of new routines, and for kids (and parents) that can be both exciting and overwhelming. These five tips—plus a few local store favorites—will help set your family up for a smooth, stress-free school year.

Between work, school, family, and the million other things life throws at us in the DMV, staying organized feels like a full-time job. I recently leaned hard into using a planner (ADHD and all), and I swear it’s changed my life.

This July, Pippin Toy Co. is turning playtime into memory-making with hands-on events that go beyond the toy aisle. From a city-wide scavenger hunt to reptile encounters and magic shows, see what not to miss this month at Old Town’s most playful spot.

Sleepless in Alexandria: Our contributors are staying up way too late — and loving it. See what shows and books are stealing their sleep this summer!

The real secret to successful summer learning – or any learning for that matter – is disguising education as play. When children are having fun, they absorb information naturally. Their creativity and curiosity kicks in and they ask thought provoking questions then seek out the answers on their own.

From April Fool’s Day pranks to planning Reptile Day at Pippin Toy Co., Leann brings joy and spark to Old Town’s favorite toy store. This week, she shares how life led her to Alexandria, her top Disney tips, her daughter Lily’s toy evolution—and why she’ll never move farther south (unless it’s to Key West!).

Headed to the beach (or mountains, or city) this summer? We’ve rounded up our favorite easy, thoughtful host gifts—from candle sets and cocktail kits to notepads, games, and cozy kitchen bundles—that are sure to impress and easy to pack.

When the Center for Alexandria’s Children reached out about a possible fundraiser, I immediately thought—this is it! I had been wanting to collaborate with some of my fellow family-focused boutiques, and this felt like the perfect opportunity. I’m deeply grateful to the teams at 529 Kids Consign, Monday’s Child, Ms. Moxie’s Moon Shop, and Old Town Books for joining in. Giving back has always been central to our mission.

Father’s Day is June 15 and we’re all scrambling to plan something sweet for the Dad who allegedly wants nothing and has everything. We’ve curated some gift ideas that will delight him to no end. We’ve pulled items from all over the shops to create a collection riddled with fun, practical, classic, and very special pop-approved gifts.

So, you've taken the plunge and bought your first fountain pen – congratulations! Maybe it's a cartridge-based pen like the Lamy Safari, or perhaps you went bold with a TWSBI Eco and bottled ink. Either way, you're probably wondering about the dreaded "M" word: maintenance. But here's the thing – cleaning your fountain pen is actually easier than getting ragu out of a white shirt. I promise.

Mother’s Day is sneaking up! If you’re lucky enough to have your mom around this Mother’s Day, make a plan to spoil her rotten. Give her a break, a cuddle, a good meal, and something beautiful that lets them know how grateful you are. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite mom-pleasers from Red Barn Mercantile and Penny Post that the moms in your life will love.