WASHINGTON — We're featuring local businesses in the DMV and encouraging you to shop small this holiday season. Urban Dwell is a veteran-owned small business in D.C. that offers all kinds of unique gift ideas.
This shopper's delight is nestled in the heart of Adams Morgan. Hip and hard-to-find items fill the colorful, cozy shop from wall to wall. The shop is jam-packed with everything from games and kitchen items, to candles, soaps and jewelry. Urban Dwell even has Post Malone and Harry Styles ornaments.
"If you need a gift for anyone, for any occasion, at any age, we've got something for you," said owner Tom McMahon.
McMahon is an Air Force veteran. He set up shop on Columbia Road in 2015, just a year after serving 22 years in the military.
"When I retired from the Air Force, I decided to get out of government and do something a little more creative. Through various government resources and family members in the business, we decided to open a store like this," he explained.
The move has paid off with a loyal customer base.
"From the moment we opened our doors, they just embraced us as part of the neighborhood. Now we're almost on year nine and we are a staple in the neighborhood," McMahon said.
A big part of what makes Urban Dwell unique is its wide selection of local merchandise. That includes art from D.C. artist Mary Belcher, and candles from local, woman-owned candle and greeting card company Wick and Paper.
"She has nine D.C.-themed candles that are popular," McMahon said.
Representing the DMV — including selling precious panda paraphernalia — is a priority for McMahon.
"We want to be part of the community and continue to be part of the community, so we'll have D.C.-themed stuff and also support local artists," he said.
This time of year, the intentional inventory pays off. Urban Dwell sees 25% of its annual sales during the month of December.
"It's jammed wall to wall. The line goes down to the back. It's hustling and bustling, but it's fun and everyone is in a good mood. It's a happy place," McMahon said.
A happy place with guaranteed return happy customers.
RELATED: Kinder Haus Toys is an old-fashioned shop serving the DMV for over 40 years | Love Where You Live