Stardust Vintage & Gift officially opened its doors at 1904 Mount Vernon Avenue on Saturday (June 14), marking a new chapter for the Del Ray business community and its founder, Amy Eggers. The grand opening celebration brought together local officials, business leaders, and community members to commemorate the occasion.
The new shop, which replaces the former antique store La Brocante (now relocated next door), represents the culmination of Eggers’ long-standing vision for creating a unique retail space in the area.
“It’s not just the opening door. It’s the beginning of a beautiful and creative and nostalgic space where memories meet artistry and where vintage treasures and meaningful gifts find their perfect home,” says Lauren Fisher, President of the Del Ray Business Association, during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Fisher highlighted Eggers’ deep roots in the community, noting that “she and her family have been here for many generations” and that she has “poured her energy and creativity into our community for years.”
The store builds on Eggers’ previous success with the Del Ray Vintage Market, which Fisher credits with gaining “regional recognition and brought thousands and really pumped up this part of the avenue.”
Mayor Alyia Gaskins expressed enthusiasm about what the new business means for the community.
“When you step in the store, you’re stepping into her heart,” Gaskins said. “Every paint color was chosen with intention, so that when you step into that space, it evokes a feeling. It invites a new energy and a new experience for everyone who goes inside.”
The mayor emphasized how the store reflects Eggers’ character and commitment to the community.
“There are lollipops on the front counter, so even if you don’t know what you need, there’s something you can walk away with. Every piece was picked out with intention. Everything was meant to inspire your creativity as well,” Gaskins added.
The grand opening festivities included a continental breakfast, cake, and a toast to the business’s future success, creating a celebratory atmosphere for attendees.
In her remarks, Eggers expressed gratitude to those who supported her journey.
“I can’t even begin to thank everybody. Every face I see in this crowd has had something to do with this, whether you realize it or not,” she said, specifically acknowledging her husband Mark.
The event drew a notable crowd of community leaders, including Senator Adam Ebbin, Del Ray Citizens Association president Tim Laderach, and various board members of the Del Ray Business Association, representatives from the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, and Tim Beatty from the Alexandria School Board.
Fisher described the new store as “stepping into Amy’s imagination,” calling it “whimsical” and “creative,” while emphasizing that “it’s more than just a store. It’s a place for meeting. It’s a place for community.”
Mayor Gaskins praised Eggers’ resilience and vision, noting, “I know that this is only the first idea. Every time we step in there, we’re gonna see those ideas spill out onto the sidewalk, into the street, and all along the avenue.”
The shop occupies a space with history, taking over the location previously held by La Brocante antique shop, which has since moved next door to 1906 Mount Vernon Avenue.
Stardust Vintage & Gift operates with varying hours throughout the week: Monday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed Tuesday and Wednesday, Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
As the ribbon-cutting ceremony concludes with photographs and celebration, the new vintage and gift shop stands ready to welcome customers and become, as Fisher described, “a true gift” to the community.
“Sometimes you don’t even know what you’re missing on the avenue,” Fisher remarked, capturing the sentiment of excitement surrounding this new addition to Del Ray’s business district.
