This charming Old Town Alexandria retailer humbly began on a card table in Alexandria’s flea market in 1973. From there it has flourished into a much-loved part of Old Town Alexandria’s vibrant character. Founder Gladys Irvin began by selling Thai jewelry and chose the name Today’s Cargo because whatever she sold each day was what had arrived in that day’s mail shipment up the Potomac River.
By 1975, the business relocated to 217 Cameron Street, remembers retired owner Donna McIntyre, who joined in 1976. Next stop was 315 Cameron Street. The company philosophy was to reinvest revenue back into the inventory so that consumers had a reason to keep returning. That smart decision kept the business growing and in 2007 Today’s Cargo made its way to its present location at 1102 King Street.
Today’s Cargo’s friendly staff make everyone welcome, including children and pets, giving the shop a real family atmosphere. But comfort is not the only thing that attracts customers, Donna says. “The price tags on our merchandise are always turned face-up so that you can see them. You will never be intimidated here. We treat our customers like we want to be treated."
Donna, the owner and Carla Clarke, part-owner and store manager are frequent jewelry trade show attendees, bringing pearls from China and Japan, Italian gold and sterling, German and Italian cameos, handmade jewelry from Mexico and Thailand, Lithuanian amber, and much more. The selection of seasonally rotated gift items and a large collection of estate jewelry keep everything new and interesting. "Everything we offer is hand-selected, quality merchandise and gifts that we stand behind" says Donna. We are also happy to locate items you don’t see in the store. Discover what true customer care means by visiting Today’s Cargo soon - Alexandria's premier source for fine jewelry and gifts.