Celebrating the Spirit of Gift-Giving: A Look into Abro Collective at Union Station
As the holiday season approaches, the joy of gift-giving fills the air, and what better way to embrace this spirit than by supporting local businesses that offer unique and handmade products. Abro Collective, located in Union Station, is a treasure trove of carefully curated items created by six DC-based small businesses, artists, and makers. During a recent interview with Tensae Haile, a co-founder of Abro Collective along with her partner, Winta Teferi, we explored the store's inception, the array of products it offers, and the importance of backing local creators during the festive season.
Abro Collective emerged from ShopHer, an 8-month retail incubator program specifically designed for women-owned companies by DC Women's Business Center. Tensae explained that after the program concluded, the businesses involved were determined to continue serving their loyal customers in the Union Station area and beyond. This determination and shared vision led to the establishment of Abro Collective, a space where handmade products ranging from clothing for men and women to artwork and jewelry coexist harmoniously.
When asked about the variety of items available in the store, Tensae enthusiastically shared that Abro Collective boasts more than just fashionable clothing and jewelry. The store also features locally handcrafted therapeutic body products and internationally sourced handmade accessories from countries like Ethiopia, Ghana, and Uzbekistan. This eclectic mix ensures that every shopper can find a unique and meaningful gift for their loved ones.
As we discussed the upcoming shopping season, Tensae expressed confidence that Abro Collective would be bustling with activity. The store has become a destination for those seeking thoughtful and distinctive gifts, and Tensae is excited about helping clients find the perfect presents for friends and family.
One intriguing aspect of Abro Collective is the events hosted at the store. Despite involving multiple partners, Tensae explained that planning these events with her partner, Winta, and the others, has been surprisingly smooth. The shared belief in the project among all partners ensures that everyone plays their part in creating a vibrant and enjoyable shopping experience. These events not only provide a platform for showcasing the products but also create an atmosphere where clients can enjoy good music, sip drinks, and leisurely browse for gifts.
When asked about the future of Abro Collective, Tensae confidently stated that she sees a positive outlook. She and her partners are actively exploring new products, whether creating them from scratch or sourcing them locally and internationally, the commitment to innovation and quality ensures that Abro Collective will continue to captivate the hearts of its customers.
In conclusion, supporting local creators like Abro Collective during the holiday season is not just a shopping choice; it's a celebration of the spirit of community and creativity. By choosing unique, locally made gifts, shoppers contribute to the growth and sustainability of small businesses. As you embark on your holiday shopping journey, consider visiting Abro Collective and other stores in the DC area that champion locally created products. Their Instagram handle is @abrocollective.
Here is a list of six stores in the DC area that pride themselves on offering locally created products, starting with Takoma Park, Maryland:
Willow Street Yoga Center Boutique - Takoma Park, MD
Salt & Sundry - Washington, DC
Eastern Market - Washington, DC
The Potter's House - Washington, DC
Bazaar Spices - Washington, DC
Fenton Street Market - Silver Spring, MD
These stores not only provide a diverse range of products but also offer a chance to support the creativity and talent of local artisans and makers.
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