King Street has no shortage of gift shops, but this one stood out for its sustainability and fair-trade concept. The shop is deceptively long and has much to offer in terms of clothing, jewelry, knick-knacks, and home decor. I learned a customer favorite are their comfortable cotton shirts, and you might find a few on sale in the back! The workers are kind and welcoming. For value, there is something for every wallet, and the quality is reliable. read more

Ten Thousand Villages - Home Decor Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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So I came here on a Wednesday and got a free massage. I think it's called Wellness Wednesdays. It was such a pleasant surprise as I had spent the morning volunteering at a farm. After that, I sampled some Equal Exchange coffee and browsed the jewelry area. They were accommodating and helped me find something I was seeking. I ended up purchasing a couple of beautiful, unique, and fairly traded items for myself, at good prices. I will always stop by here when seeking something to gift "people who have everything" and/or who have selective taste. My very picky grandmother is overjoyed whenever I gift her something from here. read more

Was four stars, now one stat because of the abject rudeness of one employee. Today is a street sale. The woman outside told me I had an unpleasant countenace! DH??? Otherwise, I loved the concept and the selection and the value. I've been here multiple times and have been happy with most of my purchases. I spoke to the manager who didn't believe me when I told her what happened. NEVER returning and never referring again. read more

Ten Thousand Villages - Employee who insulted me as I was shopping. - Home Decor Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

The concept and mission of Ten Thousand Villages is outstanding: fair trade products purchased from all over the world, the work of local artisans in the villages of far civilizations. I saw everything from carved wood puzzles from India to ladies' apparel from Nepal. It's quite an extensive, and eclectic, mix of clothing, toys, trinkets, and even musical instruments. Items here range pretty steeply in price, but it seemed to me that costs were quite reasonable - much more so than I've seen at some other import shops. There were a small handful of pieces that I even considered purchasing as gifts, which is unusual for me, because I'm usually the pragmatic one that hates random trinkets. Definitely a little something from the most frugal to the most extravagant gifters. read more

Ten Thousand Villages is a fantastic store where you can find unique items for any occasion. I love their collection of ceramics and the jewelry section is a little gem.(please excuse the pun). I love the fact that they mark the country of origin on each item. There is something really cool knowing that your new platter shaped like a fish was fashioned in the mountains of Nepal, or that your new owl tape measure was crafted in Vietnam. As I have traveled to over 50 countries, my Ten Thousand Villages experience is slightly different than that of most shoppers. First, for me, it is one giant walk down memory lane as I continually recognize items from my travels. Thus, I know that this store's merchandise is the real deal, and I am confident that any purchase will be authentic in every aspect. In fact, after a trip to India, I realized that I was a few gifts short for family and friends. Well, no problem. for I found the same heart shaped boxes that I had purchased on the streets of Delhi the week before. Family and friends none the wiser. and I was confident that each item was from India and not China. Secondly, and this is one is hard to admit, I really love a good deal and because I know what this store's items go for on the streets of their country of origin, it sometimes makes a purchase somewhat difficult. Yes, I'm aware of Ten Thousand Villages' mission statement and the idea of a living wage, but I have bought directly from craftsmen/artists in such places as Indonesia, India, South Africa, Chile, Cambodia, and Vietnam, and they all seemed quiet happy with my payment that was sometimes 5x less than the Ten Thousand Villages listed price. But, I'm sure such things as import fees, taxes, and transportation costs must be factored into Ten Thousand Villages prices, so I guess it is fair. Lastly, for me some of the best deals tend to be the smaller items. And let's face it, when it comes to getting a Nepalese fish platter, fifty dollars is still a pretty fair deal. A great store and a must see on King Street. read more

This quaint little store reminds me of Cost Plus, minus the furniture and food. They sell jewelry and accessories, books, houseware, etc. I love the concept, trying to sell items made from artisans around the world and paying them a fair wage. The sales associates are incredibly friendly and helpful, helping me to find a birthday gift for my friend. I wanted to give her something from her country of Cambodia. I settled on a pair of earrings made from bomb casings into the shape of doves. The color almost looked like gold. I also picked a small, jeweled box made in India to place her jewelry. Check this place out if you're in the area the items in this store go to a good cause and does make for a meaningful gift to someone or a meaningful item in your own home. read more

I love this place! It's a cute little unique shop with plenty of fair trade items. I really appreciated the large selection of items (they have a huge store, and it doesn't look like they do from the outside!). I bought a lovely deep blue necklace, made in Guatemala, and an adorable cat-shaped bookmark. I also loved their selection of scarves and other accessories. I really like the fact that each item indicates where it's from and some of the items also include a brief description/backstory. The people working here were friendly and I also appreciated that they had hand sanitizer at the front (great during the pandemic). I will certainly visit again! read more

Found the perfect beaded door hanging, and they sold it to me over the phone during a snowstorm! Now these folks know customer service, with kindness! read more

There are a bunch of unique products in this store, and the mission of this company really made me want to buy something just to support them! Their website states "Ten Thousand Villages provides vital, fair income to Third World people by marketing their handicrafts and telling their stories in North America. Ten Thousand Villages works with artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed. This income helps pay for food, education, health care and housing." After exploring the entire store, I ended up purchasing the wide mouth fish candleholder. It was so unique I had to snatch it up! It was also very reasonably priced. I'm glad they still have places like these around to support those in need. read more

Adorable shop with unique offerings and passionate staff. I've found a lot more handy gifts, clothes, and decor here than I expected. From jewelery to wall hangings, knitwear, furniture, and even chocolate. Most folks will consider this as a gift store, but it's great for day-to-day purchases too. The gloves, hats, and other accessories are particularly handy when Alexandria gets chillier that anticipated. The furniture and game boards are also very handsome. And, of course, every item has a story that involves good worker conditions and equitable trade. The staff here deserve a special call-out for their exceptionally friendly demeanor and knowledge of their goods, which can't be easy considering their various unique origins. They make the store a great experience overall. It's worth noting that the store is a bit tightly packed and there is the occasion split-level stair. Dogs are welcome, which makes for some very pleasant surprises. And finally, they do have sales and specials. read more

I'm one of those dorks who scrutinizes coffee cans and chocolate bars at the store looking for the fair trade label...I like to make conscious choices about what I buy whenever I can. Which is why I love Ten Thousand Villages -- well, one of the reasons. Everything in the store is fair trade and sustainably produced with most of the sales proceeds going directly back to the developing countries from which they came. I like that retail philosophy, despite recent criticisms of its merits. But in addition to the socially- and environmentally-conscious business model, Ten Thousand Villages products are just good stuff. Beautiful artwork, jewelry, clothing, accessories, and handicrafts. There are many TTV stores in the US, but this outlet in Old Town is a particularly nice one. It's large and open, with items arranged by geographical location and function, and I love that the jewelry is organized along the rainbow spectrum. Pretty! Anything you buy here will enhance your home or a friend's neckline. Also, you can ask the very friendly, always helpful sales associates to scan the SKU of any item you purchase, and they will hand you a print-out with information about where the item came from, how it was made, and who made it. Popped in last weekend to catch the tail-end of one of their best sales of the year -- 25%, 50%, and 75% off specially marked items -- and walked out with a beautiful, hand-carved bowl made from reclaimed boat/house/bridge wood buried in volcanic mud In Indonesia. It's currently showcasing our peaches and plums... read more

I am a fan of Ten Thousand Villages, as this company offers wonderfully-hand made and unique gifts, jewelry, home decor, art, sculpture, textiles, accessories, and even dishware, that represents diverse cultures (Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East). All about fair trade, their mission is to improve the livelihood of the disadvantaged artisans. This location seemed a bit smaller compared to others, but the selection of items were still comparable. I purchased some of their handmade soaps (as they have some from INdia and some from Israel) - I really like the melon-scented one and the lotus-scented one, as they're both pretty gentle (and pretty for the guest bathrooms). I also bought a gift of various necklaces for a dear friend, and a Nepalese sculpted rose necklace was her absolute favorite! Staff are pretty friendly and helpful, but the place does get super packed and a little difficult to maneuver around the narrow aisles. Great place to check out while you're in OT Alexandria! :D +all about fair trade! :D +pretty handmade soaps +pretty necklaces/jewelry read more

I absolutely love this store. It's packed full of fun and interesting treasures which are made by artisans from around the world. This store is all about free trade and you can read the artists personal stories online, or attached to the tags on the merchandise. Some of what you'll find in the store includes, but is not limited to: jewelry, handbags, home accents, childrens toys, pottery, tea sets, Putumayo cds, stationary and cards, etc. This is a great store to find that perfect gift or to simply buy someone a little wooden giraffe to add to their collection. The employees are friendly as well. I like the Putumayo cds. I recommend the Afro-Latin party, it's a good one. There's an area with headphones where you can listen to each different cd. Overall, everything is well-priced and reasonable. It's kind of like a smaller, more intimate World Market (Cost Plus), but with a heart and more style. The store is located in old town (public parking, obnoxious traffic at times, tourists, people walking really slow), but it's worth checking out. read more

I walked in here on a Sunday night at 5:50. The store closes at 6. After browsing the store for a few minutes, starting from the back, I worked my way up to the front of the store, and was kindly greeted by an employee. She asked if I needed help looking for anything, and I openly revealed my dilemma , "I'm searching for a Secret Santa gift, but I know absolutely nothing about the girl whose name I chose." The wonderful employee gave me a nice tour of the jewelry section, since jewelry is always a safe bet. She has to have at least one thing in her closet that goes well with what I would soon select! The employee told me which items were the best sellers, which items she had recently sold, etc. I ultimately went with a necklace with turquoise jewels on a silver chain. I could never really tell whether or not the employee was being so helpful because she wanted me to exit the store sooner rather than later since they were closing soon, or if she was always so helpful. I'm convincing myself the latter is the case. I love that they have mini pieces of Divine Chocolate at the register for .25 cents. I can quickly satisfy by sweet cravings (which I always have) without feeling guilty! read more

I love the idea behind ten thousand villages. The handmade items support local communities, usually from impoverished 3rd world countries, victims of sex trafficking, fair trade, etc...A few years ago, at the Ten Thousand Villages in MN, I found some homemade cards from Salay, Philippines, my birthplace, small world! I stockpiled on cards that day! The store is packed w/ jewelry, accessories, kids stuff, artwork, cards, & home furnishings. It's a great place to find unique gifts for your family/friends. While shopping, help yourself to some organic, fair trade coffee (back room). Right next to the coffee, you'll see a display of THE BEST chocolate, Divine, snag a few bars (especially white choc w/ strawberry--you'll thank me later). The two ladies working were super friendly & they made sure to remind everyone coming in about the Valentine's Day jewelry sale (30% off). If you do a yelp check-in, you get 20% off a regular priced item! Stop in if your walking around old town Alexandria. read more

Want to buy something beautiful that's both hand-made and supports amazing people in a far away country? Come to Ten Thousand Villages. I love their selections and the fact it supports Fair Trade practices and the Mennonite Central Committee. Although Ten Thousand Villages has stores all over the country, this is likely my favorite due to its wide selection and extremely helpful staff. The location is much more Main Street than many other of their locations and I'm happy that this brings in many who'd likely not see it otherwise. read more

Lovely store. Lovely mission, Super helpful and caring staff. Gorgeous crafts from around the world. Staff took the time to explain to my kids how craftmakers from around the world make the goods, and showed them a map with the participating countries posted. Kudos to all involved with this lovely store!!! read more

To keep up with the theme: I love this store! The inventory changes quite often so I keep having new excuses to go back and go back and go back again. So it works out. I buy all of my jewelry here because the products are of much better quality than Target at about the same price. Bonus: I always get compliments on my jewelry! The store is much more than jewelry, though. There are a lot of accessories for your home, too, so getting a unique and useful gift (for yourself or others) is a breeze. There is a kids section in the back, brewed fair trade coffee for the adults, chocolates for the frazzled... it's got something for everyone. One warning: if your friends are anything like my friends (i.e., weird), you may forever be labeled a hippie for shopping here. read more

Help an artist or craft maker around the world get a fair paycheck! Buy here. Thanks for being socially conscious Ten Thousand Villages. And you carry neat jewelry, baskets, dishware, decorations for the house and more. I like knowing where my money goes. Win, win! read more

I was disappointed in my visit. I had always wanted to visit this store as I frequent old town. I finally had a free Saturday so I decided to venture in. Even when you try to be discreet, you're not, and often people can tell when they are being watched and followed. There were other shoppers, but I felt singled out. The ladies were pleasant enough, but I don't think I'll be going back with my business. I didn't feel welcome at all. I did buy two masks which were incredibly high quality and I was happy with my purchase. Maybe not the store for you though if you're young and black. read more

Absolutely lovely incredible store! For being all fair trade and so unique the prices are very reasonable! The staff is incredibly friendly and many of their products (in addition to being fair trade) also benefit a particular charitable organization. Would totally recommend! read more

I've been trying to be really careful about who I give 5 stars nowadays, but I must say that this place deserves it. Everything in the store is not only fair-trade, but it is also really cool. I am a teacher, so I am always looking for cool knick-knacks and decorations for my classroom/desk. I found some little turtles sitting at a desk! How cool!!! They have clocks made out of newspaper, Himalayan salt candle holders, beaded necklaces and jewelry boxes made from elephant dung and veggies. (I passed on the dung) The staff is also very friendly and talk to you about anything! Government, weather, the way Mondays always seem to suck, etc. If you are in the area, it is definitely worth stopping by and supporting someone someplace around the world. read more

When I go on vacation, I usually try to buy a scarf as a memento. After walking up and down King Street, we found this wonderful store. Ten Thousand Villages sells fair-trade goods at reasonable prices. I paid $24 for a gorgeous red and yellow poppy scarf. The staff were very friendly, commenting on my choice, which made me feel good :) We browsed this place for at least 20 minutes, there are so many cool things to look at: paper goods, textiles, bags and totes, jewelry, pillows, home accents like wooden animals and coasters, and kitchen goods like decorative plates, glasses, and trays. They also serve fair-trade coffee to sample. Thanks for a lovely experience! read more

First, let me say the one negative thing: this place is expensive. It can be very expensive. Now that that's out of the way, I'll cover all the good stuff. This is a socially conscious place. The goods are all fair trade and they have already paid fair wages to the people that made the goods. I understand that: fair wages for (mostly) handmade goods + costs of import + normal store overhead = pricey merchandise. I can't hold that against this store. I've eyed a lot of products in here, but mostly come for the chocolate. I love dark chocolate, I love mint chocolate, and this place has delightful (fair trade) dark chocolate mint bars. There are a lot of other great merchandise such as a wide array of unique jewelry, home decor items, tea collections, books, etc. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. If you're interested in a product, they can tell you more about the people who made it and where money has gone. The store is conveniently located in the Old Town. The store itself has a pleasant vibe to it, smells earthy, has world music playing, and has a buzz that feels holiday-esque (if that makes sense). read more

One of the only fair trade stores remaining in the DMV area and the only Ten Thousand Villages following the closing of the former one in Bethesda :( - believe there's one in downtown Baltimore. Regardless, such a well organized, diverse, top notch customer service, and an awesome mission mostly staffed by all volunteers. Highly recommend coming here, especially great for birthday and holiday handmade gifts. Fewer and fewer brick and mortar stores like this outside of pop up stores and markets or fairs. read more

Great selection of trinkets and goodies! I visited a location in Austin a couple years ago and had to go in this one when I was walking by. Excellent mission, passionate staff. Making a difference and supporting fair trade and wages of hose in developing countries. Eagerly awaiting the development of a DC location! :) read more

The most amazing store on earth. All of their products are beautifully designed and well priced. Uniquely made. read more

Ten Thousand Villages - Home Decor Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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I love this store. They have a wide assortment of things that are all handmade. I especially like their jewelery. I've gotten loads of compliments on my jewelery from here. This is my favorite shop in Alexandria. I like that everything is fair trade and helps people in other countries. It makes me feel less guilty about spending money! The prices are reasonable too. read more

What a phenomenal store! I'm disappointed that I didn't stop in sooner. I love the story, the goods, and even the prices. Was shocked that a store with as cool a mission as that can operate in the high-rent district of choice King Street. I'll be doing all of my holiday shopping there. Unique gifts, incredibly reasonable prices, and you're doing good for your fellow Man. If you need your spirits lifted, just stop in for a browse -- you'll be glad you did! read more

I agree with the other reviews for this store. It's the perfect place to pick up unique gifts and you know that your money spent is going to help people in developing countries. I bought my boyfriend and I a really nice chess set for a joint valentines day present, bought some groovy christmas decorations and several very appreciated Christmas presents from there too. read more

Unique hand-carved and handmade crafts from artisans around the world. Fair trade! Excellent prices! Shop there in old town and feel good about buying international goods. I did. read more

I've been a fan of 10K Villages for years. They provide a fair wage to the artisans from the third world that make the unique home accents and jewelry sold in the shop. This unfortunately helps me to justify spending more than I anticipated whenever I stop by. Today I found a fabulous bowl made of iron circles of varying sizes, now hanging prominently on the wall in my kitchen. Another find you wouldn't see at your usual bookstore - a Street Food cookbook, filled with recipes based on dishes served by street vendors all over the world. Loving it. The items here are relatively inexpensive, making it a great spot for gifts for loved ones as well as those in a lesser orbit that you feel obligated to buy for because they invited you to something or other. You're all welcome. read more

I have loved Ten Thousand Villages for a long time, and am so happy to work near the Alexandria location. They moved across King Street a few years ago, and their current location is WAY better. You'll find gifts for just about anyone on your list, and all purchases are helping someone in a developing country make a living. read more

Very friendly. Unique gifts. A bit over priced but definitely a good place to browse.

Fun place to look for unusual things from the world market. I was excited to find some exotic percussion instruments, as I am always on the look out for them. Found a shaker from Cameroun that I added to my collection. read more

Friendly staff, ethical shopping and support to fair-trade. Does it get any better? I love Ten Thousand Villages for unique gifts and culture wares. It's in a great location too. I'm so thankful to the organization because they have agreed to donate items for DC Fashion Week. Now I can share my love of the organization with others! read more

Very earth conscious and educational. Wide assortment of gifts for everyone. Great price range for every budget. Definitely will return. =) read more

I purchased a few of the metal (not sterling silver) necklaces. All of my jewelry at home is silver, gold, or pearls, but these items were beautiful, and I liked the altruistic concept of the store. Unfortunately, when I looked into it, both the store and customer service number were unable to tell me the type of metal used. The customer service rep was pleasant and helpful - she did know the jewelry did not contain lead - but beyond that, she didn't know. For example, when I asked about nickel, she said she would have to research it. I was concerned about toxicity as I had a recent health issue and want to be careful. I went back to the store in Old Town to return the jewelry. The staff member who processed the return was professional, but her colleague was not. She made a series of inappropriate comments to me as the return was being processed. She began by saying that they can't identify what they are made of since it is "costume jewelry" and I should look at the sterling silver. She continued with some intrusive and presumptuous statements about my health. But for that experience, I would have tried again another time, but I will not be back. read more

This is such a great store and I didn't realize it was a fair trade non-profit. Thank you for the volunteers in the store who shared this with me. Shopping for a cause is great! I love coming here for gifts...I can always find something and end up buying more than I need for myself. Everything is so cool! read more

This is the best place to buy unique gifts. I have found Ten Thousand Villages comes through for the person that "has everything." They're trying to open up a second store in the the metro area somewhere in D.C. read more