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Health & Fitness

Feeling Rushed? Shop Local!

Local business have unique holiday ideas and will save you time during this busy season.

This is the time that I start to feel anxious about my holiday preparations.  Are you the same way? Too much on your list and not enough time to get it done? 

Here are some local merchants that I’ve come to rely on for bringing sanity to my holidays.

There are Christmas trees galore, poinsettias, and greenery at . Inside the garden center is a Christmas shop with unique ornaments and lights. There are ready-made wreaths, or you can custom order a wreath to match your décor. Owners John Johnston and Vanessa Wheeler do the holiday decorations for the Gaylord at National Harbor and for several important properties in D.C., so they always have their eyes open for the latest and greatest in holiday decoration.

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also has Christmas trees. Ken Rorer partners with several local high school athletic booster organizations to sell trees and wreaths at the schools.  These sales support the athletic program at the high schools. Ken carries THE BEST watermelons, but that’s a blog post for another season.

For a fresh centerpiece Sunflower Florist never disappoints.  Philp Son and his wife, Cecilia, provide floral arrangements for all occasions and the holidays are no
exception.  They have lovely, fresh, holiday-themed centerpieces with or without candles.

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Looking for a gift that tastes like homemade?  Try the cake truffles at . Sabrina and Marcia have crafted this new addition to their line of custom cakes and delectable cupcakes. A box of cake truffles with a bow makes a great gift.

For out-of-town relatives, a gift from one of the local historic sites is thoughtful and welcome.  The gift shops at , Gunston Hall, and are well-stocked with interesting items that reflect our
local heritage. The last time I was at Woodlawn Plantation they had stunning Frank Lloyd Wright inspired ties and scarves in the gift shop. I've also found great stocking stuffers at these gift shops.

The in Lorton has hand-crafted pottery and art from local artists. They host wonderful holiday activities and entertainment at the Workhouse. Why go to Wolf Trap when the Workhouse is so close?

For the wine or cigar aficionado on your list make a trip to in Belle View Shopping Center. Vanessa Moore has a gourmet selection of wine, cheese, crackers, and cigars. She and her staff are friendly and knowledgeable about their great selection.

Too busy to cook? Try “Good Food To Go” in the Hollin Hall Shopping Center. Chef Uffe Mikkelsen is a master at creating satisfying cuisine. He’s been written up in the Washington Post several times and is a local favorite. The website highlights the menu both for take-out and catering. At this business, “Good Food” is a huge understatement.

For more ideas, you can visit the chamber’s online business
directory at www.MtVernon-LeeChamber.org. If you can’t find what you’re looking for just email me and I’ll try to point you in the right direction.

Happy Holidays from your local businesses!

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