Today I want to introduce you (perhaps again) to Bellacara – my go to for beauty products. Locally owned, amazingly curated and meticulously merchandised, Bellacara is a real gem in Old Town.
A story! (I know you guys love a story). About 12 or more years ago, I was running Knit-a-Gogo and teaching classes and workshops around the DC metro area. I was hosting a workshop with Stef Japel at the Morrison House and wanted to have fun goodie bags from some local boutiques, to encourage folks to go out and shop while they were in town. One of the places that I went in to talk to was @bellacarava. Angela, the owner, was so welcoming and wonderful! As I think back, I can’t imagine how skeptical I would have been in her shoes, being approached by a knitting instructor (with no retail store) who was asking for freebies to put in a goodie bag. But Angela welcomed me to the business community and appreciated what I was doing, even my weird little knitting class business. Later when I was working on opening fibre space, she was part of a small group of women retail owners who opened their arms to me and helped me get my legs in this small community. I can’t tell you how much I value the time we worked on the Boutique District together and numerous other amazing collaborations over the years.
So back to the goods. The best part of shopping at Bellacara is knowing that everything in the store is there for a reason. There is a commitment to carefully curating their products, as well as responding to what their customers are asking for.
Here’s a glimpse at what I buy at Bellacara. I’m a a huge fan of Westman Atelier, and am so excited that I can get this luxe makeup locally. When I was pregnant with Maddie, I switched a lot of my face and body creams and oils to organic products. I remember asking Angela about what she carried that would work for me, and she brought in several brands shortly after my inquiry! I love the One Love body oil, and you’ve probably seen me post about RMS makeup before. It’s amazing. Lastly, if you know me well, you know I love CBD products. Bellacara has several awesome lines that I buy regularly – Lord Jones capsules and gummies and Saint Jane lip gloss and serum. Their lip gloss is always in my purse.
Now, more than ever, it is important to support our local and indie businesses. But really, why go elsewhere when you can get the personal touch and amazing products that Bellacara has to offer. Plus the owner is seriously one of my favorite people on the planet.