If you ask some of our loyal customers, they might tell you that I'm known for a sense of humor. Let me say that I'm serious about business, but I believe we can all have fun while we're at it.
Alexandria Originals
Business Name: Bizim Collection
Address: 1219 King Street
Phone: (703) 838-2780
You can come visit me in my store and you'll find a nice ambiance and relaxed setting, excellent service, interesting information on the products we offer, and a few smiles along the way. You can walk in and just buy an item if you want, but we also offer more of a "buying experience," that appeals to many." Hey, we even serve Turkish tea to our customers in the tradition to which I'm accustomed.
You're welcome to come in and try it for yourself.
What makes you original and unique?
Guess what? Practically every item in our store is original and unique! That's our specialty (and then there's our special tea). As far as I know, no one else offers the same blend of products, sales, and dedicated service that we do.
Bizim Collection provides high-quality, distinctive items made by master craftspeople in Turkey. The company started out with handbags and shoes made from wool and leather, and has evolved over time to include various product lines: hand-painted decorative ceramics, Ottoman-style lamps, furniture, jewelry, oriental rugs and other home accessories. We also offer services, such as carpet cleaning, repair and restoration.
Who or what inspired you to come to Alexandria?
My wife is from here, and I've lived and worked in Alexandria for almost fifteen years now. My background is in business and sales, so I've always wanted to have my own business, and Alexandria has been a good place to pursue that dream.
Old Town Alexandria is a draw for both locals as well as visitors, and it is steeped in history and tradition. This ambiance fits well with our own products, which are traditional and distinctive.
Alexandria residents and visitors tend to be well-traveled and well-versed in all things international. We are thankful for our repeat customers, many of whom send us referrals and spread the word, as they want to help us succeed. This network of support extends throughout Alexandria and Northern Virginia, as well as across the US and internationally.
What is your secret to success?
Now why would I give away my secret? Then it wouldn't be a secret! Okay, okay. It's actually pretty simple.
I believe that people deserve to have beautiful things in their lives. Why settle for a flimsy or poorly-made product that's just like a thousand others? I also believe that master craftspeople, who pour their hearts and souls into making these beautiful artistic items, deserve to find the right customer who will appreciate their hard work and their skill.
My challenge is to bring those people together in the right way. What I do is help find just the right handcrafted item for each person who walks in, and to make sure they walk out knowing that this item will be both a beautiful as well as functional addition to their home or wardrobe.
What is your proudest achievement?
One night, we were open late and a man came rushing in. He'd been working late at his office and just remembered it was his daughter's birthday. The relief and the joy on his face when he found the perfect gift for her, knowing he wouldn't be showing up at home empty-handed - that was just wonderful to behold.
Every time I see our customers connect with the beauty and quality of our products, and I know we're making a difference in their lives ... well, that's what keeps me going.
Do you have a favorite Alexandria travel tip you are willing to share?
Alexandria is a walking city. So people should bring comfortable shoes and plan to enjoy it. For those headed from the Metro to the waterfront, I encourage them to walk and explore along the way. It's a pretty easy downhill stroll in that direction. That's when you can really get the feel of Old Town and all it has to offer.
Best date idea in Alexandria?
The best date in Alexandria is the last day of the year - First Night. Oh, you don't mean that kind of date? ;-)
Let's see. A nice addition to any evening in Old Town Alexandria is to stop off at the base of the Washington Masonic Memorial and admire the view of the city at night. From there, you can see all the way to the river, and even get a glimpse of the Capitol and the Washington Monument. It's a good idea, no matter what the occasion, and there's nothing like taking in that view to help set the mood for the rest of the evening.
Favorite places to go for brunch, happy hour, dinner under the stars, lunch deals, and places to take your dog?
Romantic Dinner: Vermillion. Great service, good people, nice and quiet place to have dinner. The food is not too heavy and the portions are just right.
Lunch Deal: Pines of Florence. A quick lunch at affordable prices; nice atmosphere, good food. That's where I go when I need to briefly get away and meet with business colleagues.
Happy Hour: Rocket Grill. You can play a game of pool or join in their karaoke night, and find good deals on appetizers.
If you had friends visiting Alexandria what would you tell them to do and see during their visit?
When friends and family visit, we usually take them to the Torpedo Factory and the waterfront. And then we take them to see the view from the Masonic Memorial. And mostly, we just encourage them to walk around, to explore the shops and find treasures to take home, and to admire the architecture of the stately old buildings.
