I am co-owner of Alexandria's only cocoa bar and art gallery. I also own Artfully Paper, a unique greeting card and gift shop/art gallery both in Del Ray.
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Alexandria Originals
Name: Eric Nelson
Business Name: Artfully Chocolate/Kingsbury Confections (ACKC) and Artfully Paper
Address: 2003-A Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA, 22314
Phone: 703.635-7917
Website: http://www.thecocoagallery.com/
What makes you original and unique?
In my late 40's I decided I needed to pursue my passion of being a professional artist. I left a career as an international lobbyist for a major national trade association to pursue my passion. I have developed unique painting techniques which have made my artwork very popular and have sold well over 100 pieces.
Who or what inspired you to come to Alexandria?
I have lived in Alexandria for nearly 20 years and when thinking of a place to create a venue to show my artwork, I decided the Del Ray neighborhood in Alexandria was ideal. The community is extremely supportive of the arts and is very progressive and welcoming.
What is your secret to success?
Creativity, determination, desire to embrace change in life, love of the journey of life.
What is your proudest achievement?
Being able to proudly call myself an artist. I have had an artistic streak all my life, but I never took my talent seriously. It took me a long time an a lot of soul searching to be able to use that word to describe myself.
Best date idea in Alexandria?
ACKC, of course!
Favorite places to go for brunch, happy hour, dinner under the stars, lunch deals, and places to take your dog?
Many of Del Ray restaurants have great brunch menus. Best place for dinner under the stars is Taste of Del Ray. It's the first Thursday of September and is part of Del Ray's series of festivals that take place the first Thursday of every month from May through September.
If you had friends visiting Alexandria what would you tell them to do and see during their visit?
There are so many wonderful historic things to see in Alexandria. But, for my money, I would say head to Del Ray, whose slogan is "Where Main Street Still Exists." Del Ray is filled with unique shops, restaurants and other businesses and activities that can keep you busy for an afternoon or day or even a week.
