Red Barn Mercantile Relocating in Old Town

is moving to a new spot in Old Town and is marking down most of its merchandise before it relocates.

The shop, which offers an eclectic mix of new and antique merchandise, is moving from S. Columbus Street to 1117 King St., which was recently vacated by Arts Afire.

“We are really looking forward to this new opportunity,” said Red Barn owner Amy Rutherford. “King Street has always been the main artery for retail and dining in Old Town and I can’t wait to show off our one-of-a-kind merchandise to more visitors and residents of Alexandria.”

Red Barn Mercantile opened its doors at 113 S. Columbus St. in September 2007.

“When we launched the store, Old Town was the only place I considered. Alexandria is our home and its culture shows in the eclectic mix of new and antique merchandise that has become the hallmark of our brand,” Rutherford said. “But the economy has been difficult and as our lease came up, we decided to find a location that offered greater visibility.”

Rutherford said she looked at various locations in Northern Virginia, but in the end chose to remain in Old Town.

“The bottom line is I believe in Old Town and wanted to continue to serve the hundreds of local customers and friends I’ve made here over the years,” said Rutherford, who also sits on the Alexandria Convention and Visitors Association's board of governors and is a member of the Old Town Boutique District.

Starting June 30, most of the merchandise in the store will be marked down 30 percent. This sale will last through July 28, when the store packs up what’s left and moves the four blocks to its new location. Special-order merchandise, including furniture, rugs and bedding, will be on sale for 15 percent off through July 3.

The store will be open extended hours during the first weekend of the sale. Red Barn Mercantile will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on June 30 and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on July 1.