Made in ALX, an Alexandria-based makers market, has opened its virtual doors ahead of the holiday season.
While millions of people shop on national retail websites, it’s harder to stumble across local artists and craftspeople working right here in Alexandria. MadeinALX.com is a website and platform designed to support local artists, creators and makers and connect them to consumers.
“We knew even before COVID-19 that Alexandria is full of creative, talented makers,” said co-founder Lore Burek, a longtime Alexandria resident who has years of e-commerce experience. “We wanted to give them a local outlet to sell through and make it much easier for consumers to find them.”
Made in ALX is launching with several local partnerships, including:
- Artist Alexandra Schmeling is offering custom watercolor pet portraits for the holiday season. A portion of proceeds from the limited-time offer will support the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.
- The Official Sock of Alexandria, by local designer Stephanie Chewning and produced in partnership with the Old Town Sock Co., is available for pre-order.
- Garden Home, by Bonny McMahon, is offering unique jewelry, bags and hand-stenciled quilts.
- Artist Betsy Grady is selling a calendar and holiday cards with prints of her original paintings.
- The designers behind Love Seeds 365 are featuring holographic and motivational stickers.
- Designer Diana Papazian and others are offering unique, hand-crafted jewelry.
- Author John Wasowicz is offering a special on his Mo Katz mystery trilogy.
Several more makers are expected to partner with Made in ALX in the weeks leading into the holiday season. New products will include apparel, home décor items, games and items for pets.
Made in ALX is planning to host pop-up shops in Alexandria when it is safe to do so. Until then, start your holiday shopping online locally through MadeinALX.com.
You can also follow Made in ALX on Facebook at facebook.com/madeinalx and on Instagram at @madeinalxva.
