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Manuel helps young shoppers
assemble gift bags.
Photo: Heather Schoell
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Myth: Groovy dc has moved out of that blue row house on Eighth Street to some land far away.
Truth: Groovy dc now offers one-stop shopping on historic Barracks Row, right next door to 7-11 at the corner of Eighth and E streets SE – not only still on the Hill, but not even moved from where Groovyland Toys was. Is.
Myth: Groovy dc is now just toys.
Truth: Groovy dc does have toys, but they also have 1,000 greeting cards, local artisan wares, picture frames and helium balloons.
Myth: Owners Manuel and Dennis sold Groovy dc to Japanese industrialists and now live in a luxury condo in Belize.
Truth: No, no, no. Manuel and Dennis are still on Barracks Row, still helping you find the perfect toy, candle, handmade object d’art, novelty magnet or the card that says it all.
Still Here
Did Groovy dc move, off the Hill? Did they defect to Upper Northwest? Yes, they moved … across the street – literally right across from where they’ve been for three years. Now instead of getting your gift from Groovyland Toys and crossing the street to get your cards and gift wrap, you’ve got your one-stop shop at Groovy dc, next door to 7-11 at 425 Eighth St. SE.
Dennis and Manuel are still the same good guys doing the same business of helping you find the perfect thing for your friend, child, co-worker, self. “We like how you go to Frager’s and they help you find what you need,” said Manuel. “We want to be like Frager’s.”
Dennis added, “We do a lot of referrals … we want to keep people on the Hill, not crossing the bridge to shop in Virginia.”
The Hill is what they’re all about. Dennis and Manuel are active in Barracks Row, are a site for Toys for Tots, and give to local school fundraising events. “If the community succeeds, we succeed,” reasoned Manuel, not only on the shopping end, but in supporting local artists. Groovy dc carries an evolving stock of handmade jewelry for women and men, silk-screened cards, hand-blown glass and the delectable confections of J. Chocolatier.
Card Stock
“You can select cards that are nice to raunchy, with something that works with any sense of humor. You’ll also find polite cards for your most humorless relatives,” joked Manuel of their 1,000 greeting cards.
Groovy dc offers boutique 3D cards, cards that are handmade, locally-made and cards made to make you shoot milk from your nose (should you be drinking milk while you open it). “We can’t keep them in stock,” said Dennis of their Bald Guy Greetings cards. “They are really funny cards that have the most unexpected messages when you open them.”
Word must be on the street about Groovy dc’s extensive card selection, as during my visit, customers came in looking for a “Happy Vasectomy” card for their boss. Maybe under the “Get Well Soon” section?
They also provide made-to-order invitations and announcements, holiday cards, business stationery and photo cards. “We do elaborate to simple,” said Dennis.
Toys & Gifts
“The toy department focuses on educational and learning skill toys, such as classic wooden toys, games, pretend play, novelty toys, arts and crafts, and stuffed animals,” said Manuel. Wooden toys are always a hot seller, and Groovy dc carries an extensive Melissa & Doug collection.
Helium balloons! “You can call in, and we’ll have them ready for you,” said Dennis. “Plans to expand birthday party supplies are in the works.”
A small gift that can’t go wrong is a fine candle. Groovy dc offers soy and beeswax candles made with essential oils. Paired with the perfect card, you are golden.
Shop Locally
Skip the drive – there is a reason why Maryland and Virginia people come to the Hill. Groovy dc can take care of you for a quick gift or a planned occasion. Pop in at 425 Eighth St. SE. 202-544-6633 or www.groovydc.com.
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