Two new shops are opening that will help you find that inner creativity you always knew you had -- and to help you relax and breathe better too. Do you fancy making a terrarium, or a soy candle, or maybe some soap? You can do it all, steps from Sisters Thai, Oak Steakhouse, and West Elm.

PlantHouse opened on Memorial Day weekend at 921 N. St. Asaph Street. The shop sells lots of beautiful plants...and has a full slate of plant-related class offerings, often focused on terrariums featuring succulents, jellyfish, and a variety of plants. The shop describes itself as:

PlantHouse is a terrarium workshop and premium plant store. We combine plant-based activities, products and environments that bring people together in a way that inspires connection and creativity.

Experience the modern plant revival through do-it-yourself terrariums, organized workshops, premium plant shopping, and a modern yet eclectic ceramic collection. Don't forget to grab a drink at the PlantBar while you're in (pending ABC license in Alexandria)!

Made in ALX at 533 Montgomery Street is a collective/coop of local artists, creators, and makers of honey, home decor, jewelry, stationery, and items for kids and pets made right here in Alexandria, and offers classes in creative writing, candle-making, soap making, and more. There will be a soft opening on June 4 and 5 from 10 to 2 each day with a more formal grand opening on June 11.

Local makers who will join the shop include the Alexandria Honey Co., C&A Soy Candles, White Lily Shoppe, PawsGo, Pawfectly Delicious, Narwhal Design Ink, Hatch, Garden Home, Cosmic Crayon Co., Made by Caylea — and several artists including Alexandra Schmeling, Laurel Prucha Moran, Daniel Horowitz, Michelle Wee and Kellie Sansone.

In addition to in-store shopping, Made in ALX offers online ordering with curbside pickup, local delivery or nationwide shipping. The website features more than 600 items from a diverse group of Alexandrians.

Made in ALX is a collective of more than 40 local, independent artists, creators and makers. The goal of Made in ALX is to make it easy for residents and visitors to find and purchase locally-crafted, handmade and small-batch goods while supporting Alexandria’s smallest businesses. Made in ALX started in late 2020, founded by Alexandria residents Lore Burek and Beth Lawton, who is also co-founder of Alexandria Living Magazine. To visit online, click here.

Unleash your creativity in Old Town North!