… because there is nothing like an Italian sports car … Alfa-Romeo has returned to the U.S. and in doing so has brought Italian “forma” and cache back at a price under $100,000. There is a local Alfa-Romeo dealership at Tysons Corner. Photo by Donna Manz.
What makes a gift one-of-a-kind? When it is customized to the recipient’s interests and joys. Here are a few last-minute gift ideas, from the noble to the sublime …
For one-of-a-kind pet bed or dog mats, check out www.janery.com. The Vienna entrepreneur designs and sews her own throw pillows, catnip-infused cat mats, cat toys, washable dog mats, and waterproof designer-fabric dog beds.
Jane Pearson was inspired to create waterproof dog beds when a dog she rescued from the streets of Richmond manifested medical issues.
Janery supports U.S. manufacturers, giving back to the community, and bringing distinctive and functional pet products to the home. The business donates a portion of its proceeds to foundations for homeless people and pets.
For many people, a donation in the memory or name of a loved one – human or non-human – is a most satisfying gift. Think of charities such as the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s research, a pet sanctuary for homeless pets. Most charities will mail or e-mail an acknowledgement to your recipient.
Nothing says “excitement” better than the gift of travel. Plan a vacation with a travel agent and stuff the travel documents (airline reservations, tour and hotel vouchers) in a glittery box and wait for the reaction.
Stay active while having fun: ballroom dance. Give a series of dance classes to parents. In the Vienna/Tysons area is an Arthur Murray dance studio … you might see your neighbors there.
Who doesn’t love food?
You can build a gift basket of gourmet food items tailored to the likes of your recipient, from Vermont maple syrup to DOC Prosecco and locally-cured meats and preserves.
The Freeman Store sells made-in-Virginia products and Cocoa Vienna makes its own elegant and rich gourmet chocolates on-site. Vienna’s newest sandwich shop and wine/beer bar, Chase the Submarine, cures many of its own meats and makes unique side dishes to accompany the subs. Beers are locally-crafted. Newly-opened Chase the Submarine, owned by a few of Vienna’s most well-known business owners (Michael Amouri and Tim and Joey Ma) sells gift certificates.
For the person who has everything --- or has no kids going through college – think Italian sports car. Under $100,000? Check … racetrack-ready? Check. Engine in rear? Check. Hits 160 miles-per-hour? Check, check, check …It’s the U.S. return of the Alfa- Romeo, just in-time for the holidays. The car debuted in the U.S. in November.
Early pricing for the Alfa-Romeo 4C is about $70,000 and boasts 237-hp 1750 turbo engine, going from 0-60 MPH in 4.1 seconds. It has won the 2015 Drivers' Choice Award and was called the Best Performance Car by MotorWeek magazine.
The dealership closest to Vienna and Mclean is at Tysons Corner. And, if you yearn for a red Italian sports car, you can check out the one in the showroom. Safford Alfa-Romeo of Tysons Corner is at 8448 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, opposite Best Buy on Leesburg Pike, Rt. 7.