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The Ultimate Spa Guide: Relaxation Retreats Across the DMV and Beyond
Photo courtesy of Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf
Whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring the region, there’s a perfect spa waiting for you in the DMV and its neighboring areas.
If you’re seeking a luxurious escape, a quirky wellness experience, or a budget-friendly pampering session, the DC Metro area and its neighboring regions offer a diverse array of spas to suit every preference. Here’s a curated selection of top spas – including faves from our own Corcoran McEnearney agents – across Washington, D.C., Maryland, Northern Virginia, the Virginia Countryside, and Charles Town, West Virginia.
WASHINGTON, DC
- The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C.
Located in Georgetown, this Forbes Four-Star spa offers a serene environment with eight treatment rooms, a whirlpool, sauna, and a 50-foot indoor lap pool. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its comprehensive wellness services. - Spa Pendry at The Wharf
This elegant spa provides a tranquil wellness sanctuary with a range of treatments, including massages and facials, all set against the backdrop of the vibrant Wharf district. - Argentta Spa at the Watergate Hotel
A modern spa experience offering innovative treatments in a luxurious setting. Guests can enjoy a saltwater lap pool, whirlpool, and sauna/steam rooms.
MARYLAND
- Serenity Head Spas – Rockville (and Springfield, VA)
- Experience the ultimate scalp-to-soul reset at Serenity Head Spas, where Eastern traditions meet modern pampering. These tranquil hideaways specialize in luxurious head spa treatments that relieve stress, stimulate hair growth, and lull you into deep relaxation. *Local fave of Suvda Villarroel
- The Spa at Harbour Inn – St. Michaels
Located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this spa offers a variety of treatments in a picturesque waterfront setting, perfect for a relaxing getaway. - Turf Valley Resort Spa – Ellicott City
This resort provides comprehensive spa packages, including massages, body treatments, and facials, complemented by amenities like a sauna and indoor pool.
NORTHERN VIRGINIA
- Balian Springs – Alexandria
Join as a member for the day and enjoy their unlimited access to the hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and lounges. And be sure to check out their meditation space, steam room, rooftop pool, and a food court area. There’s relaxation at every turn! - Fountains Day Spa – Alexandria
- Step into a world of calm at one of Alexandria’s longest-loved day spas. Fountains Day Spa is known for its skilled massage therapists, tailored facials, and loyal clientele who swear by its serene setting and results-driven treatments.
- Serenity Day Spa – Alexandria
Tucked into charming Old Town, enjoy a warm, welcoming environment with an extensive menu of massages, facials, and body treatments. Loved for its calming vibe and attentive care from the moment you walk in. *Local fave of Chris Fischer - Sugar House Day Spa – Alexandria
- Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, step into a calming space of timeless charm with luxurious treatments. Known for its top-tier massages, expert skincare services, and boutique feel, it’s a serene spot to recharge. *Local fave of Charlene Schaper
- Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute – Arlington
In addition to salon services, this school offers facials as low as $35 for 30 minutes, plus body treatments, semi-permanent makeup, and waxing. - Azure Dream Day Spa – Arlington
This boutique oasis in Arlington blends European luxury with personalized service. Facials, massages, and body treatments are delivered with thoughtful detail in a setting that feels intimate, elegant, and just far enough from the bustle to be e a true escape. *Local fave of Alyssa Cannon - Spa World – Centreville
Another Korean-style spa, offering gender-segregated bathhouses, saunas, relaxation areas, and a Korean restaurant on-site. - King Spa Virginia – Chantilly
An authentic Korean spa offering a unique jjimjilbang experience with various saunas, pools, a Himalayan salt room, and relaxation areas. It’s an affordable option for those seeking a full-day wellness retreat. *Local fave of Suvda Villarroel - Nothing In Between – Tysons Corner
- Clean lines, minimalist vibes, and total nail nirvana—Nothing In Between isn’t your average nail salon. This elevated self-care studio focuses on mindful beauty with non-toxic products, Japanese-inspired dry manicures, and precision detail that has a cult following.
- The Ritz-Carlton Spa – Tysons Corner
This spa features nature-inspired treatments, an indoor pool, steam rooms, and saunas, providing a rejuvenating experience in a sophisticated setting. - Essentials of Woodbridge
A local favorite for its down-to-earth service and full range of beauty and wellness treatments, Essentials of Woodbridge delivers spa-level results without the fuss. Whether you’re booking a deep tissue massage, facial, or waxing service, you’ll find quality care at a refreshingly approachable price point. *Local fave of Rachel O
LOUDOUN COUNTY & VIRGINIA COUNTRYSIDE
- Salamander Resort & Spa – Middleburg
Nestled in Virginia’s horse and wine country, this Forbes Five-Star spa offers holistic treatments, saunas, soaking tubs, and a spa-only outdoor pool. The resort’s eco-friendly practices and luxurious amenities make it a standout destination. - Spa Minerale at Lansdowne Resort – Leesburg
This 12,000-square-foot spa boasts 13 treatment rooms, including a couples suite, offering a range of services from massages to skincare treatments in a serene environment. - Woodhouse Spas – Gainesville and Leesburg
Over 70 stress-relieving services and a tranquil atmosphere, luxurious feel, and wide menu of services.
CHARLES TOWN, WV
- Effleurage Spa
Located in downtown Charles Town, this boutique spa offers personalized massage and skincare services, providing a cozy and intimate spa experience. - Hillbrook Inn & Spa
Set in a charming country estate, the Gatehouse Spa at Hillbrook Inn provides a range of treatments in a peaceful setting, ideal for a weekend escape.
Did we miss something? Let us know your favorite spot on Instagram!
It’s always recommended to check the spa’s official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on services, hours, and bookings.
Karisue Wyson
Karisue Wyson is the Director of Education for Corcoran McEnearney and was previously a Top Producer Realtor® in the Alexandria Office.
Visit corcoranmce.com to search listings for sale in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
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Top March Events around the DMV & WV
Our favorite part about March is that spring is just around the corner! After this winter we are all ready for warmer weather. Check out our top picks for St. Patrick’s Day, Women’s History Month, Nowruz, and other great events in and around Washington, D.C., Maryland, Northern Virginia, and West Virginia.
SAINT PATRICK’S DAY
Photo courtesy of Visit Alexandria
The Ballyshaners 42nd Alexandria St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 1, 12:30 PM
Old Town Alexandria, VA
Alexandria boasts the first St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the DC area featuring pipe bands, Irish dance schools, community groups, and a host of other performers and entertainment. The parade officially starts at the corner of King Street and St. Asaph Street at 12:30 pm, with dignitaries leading the procession at 12:15 pm. The parade proceeds east on King Street, turning North at Lee Street and West at Cameron Street, finishing at the intersection of Cameron and Pitt.
Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 8, 11 AM
Old Town Manassas, VA
Dress in your brightest green for this annual celebration along Center Street Old Town Manassas, starting at 11:00 AM. This is a great family event showcasing pipe and drums, and Irish dance groups.
Annapolis St. Patrick’s Weekend | March 8 & 9
Downtown Annapolis, MD
The annual St. Patrick’s Parade returns to Annapolis as part of a full weekend of events! Click here to view the parade and parking map.
Gaithersburg St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 15, 10 AM
Rio Lakefront, Gaithersburg, MD
The 23rd annual parade at Rio Boulevard and Grand Corner Avenue will start this year at 10:00 AM. The parade will feature dozens of units, including Celtic dancers, bagpipe bands, school groups, fire trucks, equestrian units, service organizations, costumed characters, and more.
Photo courtesy of The Wharf
Ireland at The Wharf | March 15
The Wharf, DC
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day from 12:00 – 6:00 PM with a festival featuring live Irish music, Irish dancers, and more in partnership with Kirwan’s on the Wharf, Jameson, Miller High Life, and Guinness. Click Here to view the Event Map.
Bluemont Shamrock Race 5k/10k | March 16
Great Country Farms, Bluemont VA
The scenic and rolling 10K course will take you on a journey through the back roads of Bluemont, VA. You will run past numerous farms along the Blue Ridge on gravel roads. The 5K is an out and back on all blacktop roads that offers a nice scenic run. Please note that both courses are open to vehicular traffic during the event.
MORE TASTES, FESTIVALS, AND FUN
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art
American Conservation Film Festival | March 6-9
Frank Arts Center, Shepherdstown, WV
This year’s ACFF spans four unforgettable days featuring 28 inspiring films that share stories of hope, resilience, and the individuals making a difference for our planet.
BSO: Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony & Augustin Hadelich | March 8, 8 PM
The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda, MD
In a surge of passion and drama, Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony traces a clear narrative of darkness to light, probing the eternal questions of fate and faith. A hallmark of the violin repertoire, Alban Berg’s Violin Concerto delves into a mysterious, autumnal sound world, played to perfection by celebrated virtuoso Augustin Hadelich. The third piece featured will be Memorial to Lidice by Bohuslav Martinů.
Nowruz Family Festival | March 16, 11 AM-4 PM
National Museum of Asian Art, Washington, DC
Honor the new year at the Smithsonian’s annual Nowruz Family Day. Welcome spring with free attractions for all ages, including storytelling, hands-on activities, and more. Persian sweets and food will be available for purchase. Learn about Nowruz.
Register in advance to make sure you get the best experience. Some activities have a limited capacity, with entry on a first-come, first-served basis.
Photo courtesy of National Cherry Blossom Festival
National Cherry Blossom Festival | March 20 – April 13
What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin now spans four weeks throughout Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. Residents and visitors are invited to celebrate all that spring in Washington, DC has to offer – from exciting events to delectable Cherry Picks restaurants, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, delightful hotel stays, and more. Popular events include:
- Pink Tie Party | March 14, 7-11 PM
- Stumpy’s Petals & Paddles Race | March 20, 4-7 PM
- Opening Ceremony | March 22, 5-6:30 PM
- Blossom Kite Festival | March 29, 10-4 PM
36th Annual Evening of Comedy | March 21 – 22, 7 PM & 9:30 PM
The Barns at Wolftrap, Vienna, VA
These hilarious evenings feature top stand-up comedians including Carol Leifer, writer and producer of Seinfeld; Rich Hall, a Saturday Night Live and Fridays veteran who coined the term “sniglet”; and Rondell Sheridan, beloved for his parental role on Disney’s That’s So Raven. Four shows mean four times the laughs!
Second Annual Harpers Ferry Film Festival | March 21 – 22
51 Mather Place, Harpers Ferry, WV
Join Harpers Ferry Parks & Recreation for two nights of shorts and feature-length independently produced films with local flair. Friday night features White Grass and Freeland, A Blackwater Story – films by Justin Harris. Saturday night features Shutter Sound and a horror flick, The Only Ones (suggested for audience members 14 years and older) – films by Jordan Miller.
CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum
Women’s History is American History
Not limited to March, the Smithsonian’s American Women’s History Initiative is ongoing in preparation for the future American Women’s History Museum. You can check out the latest news and explore exhibits online at womenshistory.si.edu.
Many other area museums and communities will be hosting events and exhibits highlighting women’s history throughout the month. Check out the following websites for more details:
- Smithsonian
- National Park Service
- Montgomery County, MD
- Maryland Women’s Heritage Trail
- Alexandria, VA
- City of Fairfax, VA
- Fairfax County, VA
National Museum of Women in the Arts
1250 New York Ave., NW,, Washington, DC
Check out this beautifully renovated and expanded museum for free. The collection is one of the coolest in DC featuring a new exhibit called “Uncanny.” A concept popularized by Sigmund Freud in 1919, the uncanny describes the psychological experience of something that is strangely familiar, yet alien, eliciting a sense of anxiety. In historical representations, women’s bodies were often associated with strangeness and horror, or positioned as passive or uncanny objects when viewed through a male gaze. This exhibition uncovers women’s authorship of uncanny narratives, revealing how the concept is used by women artists to regain agency and probe feelings of revulsion, fear, and discomfort.
The Outstanding Women of the Ball-Sellers House | March 13, 7-8:30 PM
Reinsch Library Auditorium, Marymount University, Arlington, VA
The Arlington Historical Society (AHS) is celebrating the 50th Anniversary of receiving the John Ball House from its last owner, Marian Sellers with inspiring stories about the various residents of Arlington’s oldest house including Elizabeth Payne Ball, the wife of the builder who took a man to court to sue for her inheritance; Irene Young, a suffragist and divorcee’ when society viewed divorce as a “dirty word” and saw it as ALWAYS being the woman’s fault; and Julia Powell, one of the first enlisted US Navy Yeomen in the First World War.
Free In-person or via Zoom
Visit corcoranmce.com to search listings for sale in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
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Top Things to Do in March in the DMV
Our favorite part about March is that no matter the weather, spring is just around the corner! Check out our top picks for St. Patrick’s Day, Women’s History Month, Nowruz, and other great events in and around Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
SAINT PATRICK’S DAY
Photo courtesy of The Wharf
Alexandria St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 2, 12:15 p.m.
Old Town Alexandria, VA
Alexandria boasts the first St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the DC area. The parade features pipe bands, Irish dance schools, community groups, and a host of other performers and entertainment. A fun day with family and friends.
Greater Manassas St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 9, 11 a.m.
Old Town Manassas, VA
Dress in your brightest green for this annual celebration along Center Street Old Town Manassas. A great family event showcasing pipe and drums, and Irish dance groups.
Annapolis St. Patrick’s Weekend | March 15-17
Downtown Annapolis, MD
The annual St. Patrick’s Parade returns to Annapolis as part of a full weekend of events!
- Hooley Kick-off Party | Friday, March 15
- Shamrock the Dock | March 16-17
- Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 17, 1 p.m.
Bluemont Shamrock Race | March 16, 9 a.m.
Great Country Farms, Bluemont VA
The course for this Annual 5K/10K winds through the picturesque country roads of Western Loudoun County. Awards take place at Great Country Farm with an after party at Dirt Farm Brewing.
Gaithersburg St. Patrick’s Day Parade | March 16, 10 a.m.
Rio Lakefront, Gaithersburg, MD
The 22nd annual parade at Rio Boulevard and Grand Corner Avenue. Dozens of units will march in the parade, including Celtic dancers, bagpipe bands, school groups, fire trucks, equestrian units, service organizations, characters, & more.
Ireland at The Wharf | March 16, 12 – 6 p.m.
The Wharf, DC
Enjoy all the fun of a true Irish festival with Guinness, Jameson, rugby, dancing, and bands brought to you by The Wharf and Kirwan’s Irish Pub. Sláinte!
VA Irish Fest | March 16, 1 – 8 p.m.
One Loudoun, Loudoun, VA
Get out your green and shake your shamrocks at the first VA IRISH Fest featuring a variety of DJs and awesome bands. Brought to you by Shamrockfest, this is a fun day for all.
MORE TASTES, FESTIVALS, AND FUN
Photo courtesy of National Children’s Museum
Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way | Through May 12
National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC
Featuring characters from the popular British animated series, Shaun the Sheep, this interactive exhibit helps kids build problem-solving and motor skills while exploring technology and literacy. Recommended for learners from ages 3-9 and their families.
Awesome Con | March 8 – 10
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt Vernon Pl NW, Washington, DC
Awesome Con is Washington DC’s Comic Con! A 3-day celebration of geek culture, bringing over 70,000 fans together with their favorite stars from across comics, movies, tv, toys, games, and more!
College Basketball Tournaments | March 8 – 18
We all know that March Madness will soon be upon us and DC plays host to multiple conference tournaments this year. The Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) men’s tournament (March 8-12) and women’s tournament (March 13-18) will be held at Entertainment & Sports Arena in Congress Heights. 10 straight days of basketball with the winners receiving automatic bids to the NCAA tournaments. The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) men’s tournament (March 12-16) will also be held in DC at Capital One Arena. Consistently one of the top basketball conferences in the country, the ACC players will not disappoint.
National Cherry Blossom Festival | March 15 – April 14
We may not be able to predict peak blooms yet, but this favorite annual spring festival begins in March and we wouldn’t want you to miss the fun. We’ve selected a few highlights, but be sure to visit the festival website for a full list of events.
- Pink Tie Party | March 15, 7 – 11 p.m.
- Blossom Kite Festival | March 30, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Opening Ceremony | March 23, 5 – 6:30 p.m.
Nowruz, Persian New Year
Starting at the vernal equinox (March 20), the celebration of Nowruz is rich in traditions that symbolize hope for the new year. It dates back thousands of years and is celebrated by millions of people in diverse communities worldwide.
- Nowruz Family Festival at National Museum of Asian Art, DC | March 10, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Nowruz Festival at Hilton Fairfax, VA | March 10, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- IACC Nowruz Bazaar in Chevy Chase, MD | March 16, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Norooz Market at Brookland Arts Walk, DC | March 16, 3 – 7 p.m.
CELEBRATING WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
Photo courtesy of Smithsonian
Women’s History is American History
Not limited to March, the Smithsonian’s American Women’s History Initiative is ongoing in preparation for the future American Women’s History Museum. You can check out the latest news and explore exhibits online at womenshistory.si.edu.
Many other area museums and communities will be hosting events and exhibits highlighting women’s history throughout the month. Check out the following websites for more details:
- Smithsonian
- National Park Service
- Montgomery County, MD
- Maryland Women’s Heritage Trail
- Alexandria, VA
- City of Fairfax, VA
- Fairfax County, VA
Free Community Days at the National Museum of Women in the Arts | March 3 & 13
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC
Check out this beautifully renovated and expanded museum for free. The collection is one of the coolest in DC. Reserve your spot on their website.
International Women’s Day Festival | March 8, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC
First celebrated in 1911, International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the globe. If you are interested, learn more about this year’s theme #InspireInclusion. Join the National Museum of Women in the Arts for virtual and in-person programs that highlight and celebrate women in the visual and performing arts.
Women’s History Month Festival | March 9, 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
National Portrait Gallery, 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC
The Portrait Gallery hosts the annual Women’s History Month festival for people of all ages! Come see their newest portraits of Oprah, Beyoncé, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and more. The celebration in the courtyard will feature performances and workshops, art activities, spotlight talks, scavenger hunts, and story times.
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Experiential Gifts in (or near) the DMV
What do you get for that person in your life who seems to have everything? An experiential gift, of course! From theater tickets to sporting events to cooking classes, we’re sharing a few ideas that will appeal to a wide range of individuals. Note that opting to gift an experience is also an excellent approach if you’re shopping for a minimalist or someone who has a very particular taste and likes to buy most of their own clothing and home goods. You truly cannot go wrong with any of the six options below!
Swan Lake Tickets
It’s always fun to receive a gift for a performance or event later on in the year—once the holidays are over, it’s nice to have something special to look forward to, even if it’s several months away. Why not surprise your mom, sister, or BFF with tickets for the two of you to see Swan Lake at the Kennedy Center together? The show will run from February 21 through 25, and tickets begin at just $49 each. The American Ballet Theatre’s dancers are sure to dazzle.
Sur La Table Cooking Class
Whether they’re a seasoned chef or more of a novice, the foodie in your life will be thrilled to attend a cooking class at Sur La Table. There are many Sur La Table locations in the area, and below you’ll find the schedule for the courses offered at the Alexandria store. Budding chefs will enjoy dabbling in Thai food making, brushing up on their knife skills, making their own sushi, and so much more—there are plenty of class themes to choose from.
Sewing Lessons
Sewing is a great activity for all ages and is a fun indoor hobby to enjoy during the cold winter months. A Special Lee offers sewing classes for kids, teens, and adults in the Petworth neighborhood of DC, while Tilden House Studio also offers classes for all ages in Brentwood, Maryland.
Concert Tickets at The Fillmore
If you’ve never attended a concert at The Fillmore in Silver Spring, you’re missing out. The venue is constantly hosting amazing performers and is easily Metro accessible. To take a look at the shows coming up in early to mid 2024, check out their website here.
Photo courtesy of the Washington Capitals
Caps Tickets
If they love cheering on the Caps from the comfort of their couch but have never viewed a game at Capital One Arena, it’s time to change that. Grab a pair of tickets for early 2024 and get ready to rock the red.
Book a Weekend Away
Looking to go a bit further than an Uber ride away? Surprise your loved one with a weekend getaway in the area—splurge on a stay at The Greenbrier, take a trip up to Baltimore and stay at The Pendry, enjoy a spa weekend at the Salamander Resort…the list goes on and on!
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelance writer, originally from Bethesda, MD. She contributes to a number of national design and lifestyle publications like Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, MyDomaine, the Washington Post, and more. Sarah also works with designers to help them style spaces for photo shoots. Find more shelfies on her Instagram page, @sarahlyon9
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Gift Guide: Top Titles from Birch Tree Books for 2023
It’s that time of year again, when the weather gets chilly, lights go up in trees and windows, and holiday shopping season begins. At Birch Tree Bookstore, you can avoid the stress that sometimes creeps up at this time of year by filling your Birch Tree shopping basket with meaningful gifts like books, plants, candles, puzzles, and fair trade toys for the little ones.
Everything at Birch Tree is carefully curated by the owner, Leah Fallon, and staff. The ethos at Birch Tree has always been about connecting our community with quality merchandise and book titles that will be a perfect fit for each reader. This blog will help guide you through some of our favorite seasonal picks and timeless titles as you find the perfect gifts for your friends and family.
Down the hall past the kids room in Birch Tree, you will find the owner Ami Mason planting and propagating in the clinic of Foliage Plants, a business within a business. All the plants in Birch Tree books are from Foliage. And what would be a better gift to pair with a book than a neon pothos trailing from a disco ball planter, or a calathea and a cute watering spike, or a showstopping pink princess?
After browsing this blog, making your list, and checking it twice, come see us at 11 W Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia where we just celebrated our first year anniversary in this amazing location! (Across the street from McEnearney Associates Leesburg location!)
Note from McEnearney Associates: If you would like to support Birch Tree Bookstore as a local independent bookseller but are unable to visit in person, consider ordering online from Bookshop.org. Your order is shipped to you and if you choose Birch Tree Bookstore they will receive the full profit from your purchase.
Board Books
For little ones who are just learning to love books, in Where’s the Snowman? they will find the simple illustrations and soft felt flaps to be fun and engaging.
For a book with a nostalgic, classic feel, pick up Merry Christmas, Little Reindeer.
Children’s Picture Books
Local author Kate Anastasio has written and illustrated one of the sweetest Christmas books of the season, The Bright Red Envelope – a story about brotherly love and being seen and understood.
Mo Willems has done it again with Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Sleigh! A fun holiday take on the modern classic, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!.
Elementary Books
For the nonfiction reader, Science Comics offers graphic novel introductions to a variety of topics from dinosaurs, coral reefs, the solar system, volcanoes, and bats to frogs and so much more!
For the fiction readers, the Dory Fantasmagory series just released the 6th book of Dory’s adventures as she entertains her little siblings and plays make-believe. With a distinctly nostalgic tone, these books are timeless, and you can find all six in the series at Birch Tree.
Middle Grade Books
Hardcover gift: If you grew up as a middle-schooler reading and loving the Eragon series, you can now share the magic with your middle grader in this special new illustrated edition of Eragon. If your middle grader has read series like Harry Potter or Percy Jackson and is looking for a new fantasy world to dive into, this edition of Eragon would be the perfect book to read aloud together.
Stocking stuffer paperback: Kelly Barnhill first became known for The Girl Who Drank the Moon, a universal favorite. She’s back with another beautiful story somewhere between fantasy and fairytale, full of heart and good life lessons with The Ogress and the Orphans.
Young Adult (YA) Books
Hardcover: If you are looking for a breathtaking fantasy with faerie court intrigue, romance, and betrayals, Holly Black is a trusted name in fantasy and this edition of The Cruel Prince has the absolute works: velvet gold foil, beautiful end papers, additional content, and sprayed edges.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: Ali Hazelwood has become wildly popular for her adult romance-in-STEM books, and now you can get her much-anticipated YA debut Check & Mate about the intricacies of competitive chess and the people you might be competing against.
Nonfiction Books
Hardcover: Along with explaining some of the biggest topics in astrophysics such as the big bang, black holes, and time travel, in To Infinity and Beyond: A Journey of Cosmic Discovery, Neil de Grasse Tyson and Lindsey Nyx Walker also examine what Hollywood gets right – and wrong – about the cosmos.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: Though this one is a heavy read, Killers of the Flower Moon is an important story to know as David Gann brings to light the historical true crime story of murders in the Osage Nation, the beginnings of the FBI, and how prejudice can affect the pursuit of justice.
Memoirs
Hardcover: Tis the season of memoirs and biographies! Britney Spears, Dave Grohl’s paperback, Tupac Shakur, Leslie Jones, Jada Pinkett Smith, Matthew Perry, Kerry Washington, John Stamos, Henry Winkler–phew!! But to help you narrow it down, Hilary Burton Morgan’s beautiful Grimoire Girl (signed copies still available!) and Barbara Streisand’s My Name is Barbara would be good places to start looking for crowd pleasers.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: For a small paperback with a lot of heart, Alexi Pappas’s Bravey is a moving, hopeful memoir told in essays that everyone can find inspiration in.
run like a bravey
sleep like a baby
dream like a crazy
replace can’t with maybe
Fiction Books
Hardcover: There have been so many great literary fiction books out this year, but a Birch Tree and Foliage favorite is Shark Heart: A Love Story. This is a unique and artful debut from Emily Habeck with a touch of magical realism about a couple who are going through the process of one of them slowly turning into a great white shark. It truly is “a love story,” about love in many different facets. Heart-wrenching and magical, pick up Shark Heart for all your friends and grab one for yourself while you’re at it.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: Now out in paperback, A Little Hope is a quiet, human story about small town life and how people come together for each other.
Mystery & Suspense Books
Hardcover: Stephen King listened to the people when they said they wanted more Holly Gibney, and here she is in her own novel, Holly, solving a missing person’s case and going up against formidable suspects that might be more than meets the eye.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: There are a lot of books about mistaken identity out there, but how often does a book come along where a single mom and struggling novelist is mistaken for a contract killer? Mystery, real-life takes on motherhood, and hilarity ensues in the Finlay Donavan series. Start with Finlay Donavan Is Killing It, and get through the next two titles, Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead and Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun before Finlay Donovan Rolls the Dice comes out in March 2024!
HONORABLE MENTION: For an Agatha Christie-esque holiday read, follow Roz Parker through Murder on the Christmas Express as she tries to solve mysterious murders on a snowbound train.
Science Fiction Books
Hardcover: Sometimes classified as hopepunk or solarpunk, Becky Chambers’s A Psalm for the Wild-Built shows a future where humans have lost their AI and robots and built a new kind of society. We follow a tea monk as they search for purpose in a peaceful future and meet a wild-built robot along the way. The dedication is “for anybody who could use a break.”
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: If you are shopping for someone who likes sci-fi adventures, spaceships, hacking, bionics, and character-driven stories with a lot of dry humor and snark, pick up the first in the Murderbot Diaries, All Systems Red and start them on a journey with their new favorite series. The seventh in the series, System Collapse has just been released!
Fantasy Books
Hardcover: Even people who don’t read a lot of fantasy will love Nettle and Bone. Funny, beautiful, heartwarming, and meaningful, this book is for anyone who would like a fairytale with powerful fairy godmothers, a 30-year-old protagonist who is finding herself, and a ragtag group of people (plus a very special chicken and dog) on an important quest.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: For a cozy stocking stuffer to curl with up, Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries just came out in paperback and is exactly what it sounds like: a grumpy professor doing field work studying faeries in the snowy north finds friendship and maybe even love along the way. Or, for a staple in the genre of cozy fantasy, the sequel to Legends and Lattes, Bookshops and Bonedust, has just come out. For anyone that loves Dungeons and Dragons but also comfy, low-stakes stories with charming characters and bookshops, of course.
Romance Books
What better setting for a meet-cute or a magical, romantic moment than the holidays? The biggest question is how to choose which title? In a Holidaze; A December to Remember; A Holly Jolly Ever After; Bright Lights, Big Christmas; A Merry Little Meet Cute… I know, I know, this blog is supposed to be helping to narrow down choices, but look at that list! There’s just no narrowing down. Good thing romance books are special because many of them release straight to paperback instead of hardcover first, so you can just stock up on a bunch of titles to make a book bundle or pass around to friends.
Coffee Table Books, Cookbooks, & Statement Pieces
Talk about a statement piece, look at Smithsonian America: The Atlas. This utterly unique piece done by the experts at the Smithsonian tracks American history from thousands of years ago to modern day in maps. This is a true coffee table book — visual and flip-through-able, and filled with information.
There’s no competing with soup this time of year, and the book Every Season is Soup Season is easy to follow, colorful and dynamic, and has a wide range of recipes to satisfy anyone’s cravings.
Classics
When in doubt, get a classic. Even if the giftee has read it already, these editions are so stunning, they’re just fun to collect and add to anyone’s at-home library.
Poetry and Short Stories
Hardcover: For the person in your life who wants to start the new year right with good habits and meditative time for themselves, pick up A Poem to Read Aloud Every Day.
Paperback Stocking Stuffer: This sweet, quiet anthology of poems The Wonder of Small Things: Poem of Peace and Renewal is accessible to any reader and will bring a touch of calm and hope to anyone’s life.
Holiday Specific & Gifts
If you’re in NOVA, it’s worth it to stop by Birch Tree just to enjoy the beautiful decorations and browse the holiday offerings—within the wide variety of puzzles and specialty books, there’s the perfect gift for someone who you don’t know very well or to take to a fun event like a gift exchange.
Plants
After you pick up books for all the readers in your life, you probably still have a few friends or family members on your list who might not want a book but also deserve a local Leesburg treasure. Plus, you’re already here, you don’t want to go to ANOTHER shop while you’re laden down with books.
That’s when you step down the hall to Foliage Plants and pick up a poinsettia, a cute pot, or both!
Books and plants are what we do best here at Birch Tree and Foliage, so we look forward to seeing you and helping you find the perfect book, plant, or gift for all the special people in your life this holiday season!
Contributor Laura Seabourne is a bookseller at Birch Tree Books and a lifelong book-lover. She particularly loves science fiction and fantasy, but really, how can a reader choose just two favorite genres? In her spare time, she enjoys reading books, thinking about books, teaching books, writing about books… and knitting, of course. CR: Legends and Lattes and Bird by Bird.
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Gift Guide: Shop Local for the Perfect Gifts this Holiday Season
The Saturday after Thanksgiving celebrates small businesses and shopping local. Practices we embrace wholeheartedly for both in-person and online shopping! Whether you are shopping for gifts or the perfect holiday attire, we hope this selection inspires you to support businesses in your community.
Photos courtesy of Mint and Ivy
Mint and Ivy
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Mint & Ivy curates beautiful gift boxes that will be used, remembered, and loved. Jingle all the Way includes a Cosmopolitan Cocktail Kit, Lavender Bath Bome, Amber & Vanilla candle, and a festive holiday cracker. Or maybe a Hot Toddy is more to your liking including Hot Toddy Mix by Wood Stove Kitchens, Spiced Hot Toddy candle, dried lemon slices, and a bundle of cinnamon sticks’
Photos courtesy of Salt & Sundry
Salt & Sundry
Logan Circle, 1625 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Union Market, 1309 5th St. NE, Washington, DC 20002
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Salt & Sundry is a home + lifestyle boutique featuring an eclectic mix of goods from independent makers and designers, both local and from across the globe. Looking to sparkle during the holidays, try the hand-made, Pearl Scalloped Triple Drop Earrings or the adjustable Gold Mosaic Naked Wrap Bracelet featuring stamped gold beading.
Photos courtesy of Hoagland Handmade
Hoagland Handmade
Shop Online
This husband and wife team creates finished natural fiber knits and notions for other makers, and offers some of their favorite local yarns for other knitters, crocheters, and weavers including fibers farmed, grown, or hand-dyed in Virginia. Some favorites include the Lightweight Asymmetrical Shawl in Merino featuring lace, color blocks, & solid sections to add visual appeal and the Hand-dyed Merino Children’s Mittens in a variety of colors.
Photos courtesy of The Lucky Knot
The Lucky Knot
101 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314
176 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401
9 N King St, Leesburg, VA 20176
100 E Washington St, Middleburg, VA 20117
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Offering clothes and accessories for men and women, The Lucky Knot showcases top-notch quality clothing that is not only stylish but also designed with your travel convenience in mind. The Barbour Bradford Gilet is an adaptable layer for any man’s wardrobe. Cut to a roomy fit with herringbone shoulder patches and two patch pockets with stud-close flaps and additional side entry for the added functionality of keeping hands warm. The Sail to Sable Charlotte Sequin Dress in Emerald is perfect for this festive season with its flattering tunic style neckline, breezy fit, and blouson sleeves.
Photos courtesy of Fahrney’s Pens
Fahrney’s Pens
Penn Quarter, 1317 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004
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Founded as a fountain pen repair shop in 1929, throughout the years, Fahrney’s Pens has supplied fine writing instruments to some of Washington, DC’s most prominent officials. Today they offer a wide selection of pens as well as stationery, watches, and men’s jewelry. Fahrney’s Exclusive Victoria Vertical 8-Slot Pewter Pen Stand is beautiful and the perfect showplace for a Parker Special Edition Sonnet Mt Fuji Rollerball, Ballpoint, or Fountain Pen.
Photos courtesy of Lou Lou
Lou Lou Boutiques
Founded in Middleburg with multiple DMV locations
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Lou Lou Boutiques offer apparel and home goods, but they made their reputation for their fashionable accessories. The ABLE Blaire Bucket Bag features an adjustable and removable crossbody strap and easy top handle, allowing it to be worn multiple ways. The ABLE Carolina Belt is a thick leather belt accented with an antique brass buckle. Perfect way to finish off your look in the most refined way.
Photos courtesy of The Urban Farmhouse
The Urban Farmhouse
5140 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22205
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Whether you are looking for hostess gifts or fun ideas for the family, check out the Urban Farmhouse, a home and gift shop located in a 120-year-old farmhouse. The Flora & Fauna 1,000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle is a charming way to spend chilly winter nights. Mix up a cocktail or mocktail with Grapefruit Rosemary Simple Syrup made in Virginia.
Photos courtesy of Ron David Studio
The Ron David Studio
Union Market, 1256 4th St NE, Washington, DC 20002
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Ron David Studio is a luxury fashion brand of bold and unique eyewear, handbags, and clothing sourced from around the world and hand-selected by Ron David. The Supersnake Sunglasses feature dark brown lenses and privacy temples. A great layering piece, the Dress Fuschia Pink Ruffle can be worn loose or belted.
Photos courtesy of Quavaro
Quavaro
Shop Online
Founded by husband and Wife, Cesar and Pial Vega, Quavaro is a Washington DC-based brand that produces stylish and high-quality travel bags directly from their own small factory in Mexico. The roll-up design of the Hawk Backpack allows you to expand your bag when you are carrying a heavier load. The water-resistant waxed canvas exterior makes it durable. The Albatross Weekender has one top zipper which makes it a breeze to get in and out of. It comes with a shoulder strap and has metal feet on the bottom to limit wear and tear.
Photos courtesy of Becket Hitch
Becket Hitch
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Becket Hitch offers a collection of modern home goods, exciting decor, apparel, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Show your state pride and brighten your home with the Maryland Flag Pillow. Food safe, these hand-carved, teak Milici Bowls are available in three different sizes and make a wonderful addition to any home.
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