A Perfume Playground Opens in Old Town Alexandria
Arielle Shoshana Welcomes Mayor Alyia Gaskins and Community Leaders at Ribbon Cutting
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Old Town Alexandria welcomed a new small business yesterday with the ribbon cutting of Arielle Shoshana, a thoughtfully curated fragrance boutique now open at 313 Cameron Street. Neighbors, local leaders, and fragrance enthusiasts gathered to celebrate the opening, marking another addition to Old Town’s vibrant independent retail community.
The ribbon was officially cut by Alexandria Mayor Aliya Gaskins, joined by boutique co-owners Arielle Weinburg and Katri Haas, highlighting the City of Alexandria’s continued support for small businesses and local entrepreneurship. Applause from attendees echoed along Cameron Street as the storefront was formally opened.
Founded by fragrance expert and retailer Arielle Weinberg, the boutique is nationally known for its carefully curated collection of independent and artisan perfumes from around the world. The Alexandria location brings that distinctive sensibility to a historic setting, blending modern fragrance artistry with the charm and walkability that define Old Town.
Located just steps from Market Square, the shop occupies a street-level space that fits seamlessly into the neighborhood’s historic streetscape. Inside, the boutique offers a calm, inviting atmosphere designed for exploration rather than hurried shopping. Fragrances are displayed to encourage discovery, and knowledgeable staff guide customers through scent families, notes, and personal preferences, making fine fragrance approachable for newcomers and collectors alike.
Katri Haas says, “Beyond retail, the boutique is expected to host fragrance-focused events, including guided scent explorations and introductions to independent perfumers.” This emphasis on education and community engagement aligns with the brand’s mission to make fragrance personal, inclusive, and accessible.
The ribbon-cutting drew a cross-section of the community, including nearby business owners, residents, and visitors curious to experience something new. The event reinforced Old Town Alexandria’s reputation as a place where independent businesses can thrive and where shopping local remains a valued part of community life.
The celebration will continue with a Grand Opening event on January 24, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., when the public is invited to experience the boutique in a festive setting. Guests will enjoy fragrance-inspired cocktails and mocktails, offering a creative way to explore the connection between scent and taste while browsing the shop’s curated selection. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP through the boutique’s website to help the team plan for the event.
Opening a location in Alexandria reflects Arielle Shoshana’s alignment with the city’s appreciation for craftsmanship, creativity, and small-scale retail. The boutique adds a distinctive offering to Cameron Street, complementing the area’s mix of restaurants, galleries, and specialty shops while enhancing the neighborhood’s appeal as a destination for unique experiences.
As Old Town continues to balance historic preservation with thoughtful growth, Mayor Gaskins notes, “The opening of Arielle Shoshana shows how new businesses can honor the neighborhood’s character while introducing fresh ideas.” The ribbon-cutting ceremony and the upcoming Grand Opening celebration mark not only the launch of a new store but also a celebration of women entrepreneurship, creativity, and community in the heart of Alexandria.
