Home Rule embraces the future by serving as a Bed, Bath & Beyond for the young urban set that prefers not to schlepp to the suburbs. Home Rule makes any trip worth the effort by stocking gear for almost every room of the house, all squeezed into a 1,000-square-foot space. Six different types (coir, coconut fiber or rubber) of welcome mats share space with modern stainless-steel flatware and minimalist desk-organizing tools (pens and pencil holders and push pins). There are clothes pins shaped like sharks (50 cents each) and everything you'll need to make the perfect martini: shakers, pitchers and ice buckets. Visit homerule.com for more information.

To give your home a breath of fresh air, visit The Dutch Lady at Georgetown for some top notch handmade European linen and other home décors.

Nakita, the owner of the boutique was born in The Netherlands and studied lace and embroidery from the finest artisans in Bruges, Belgium since a very young age. Her work stays true to the amazing craftsmanship of her European heritage, yet incorporates a unique splash of her vivacious personality.

Fresh and elegant, these lovely linens will catch your eye with their delicate beauty and inspire you with their effortless styles.

With holiday themed embroideries and romantic patterns of lavender, lilies and roses, The Dutch Lady not only represents a living attitude of effortless chic, but also brings a hint of timeless European exquisiteness to your adobe.

Shhhh… the beautiful hand-embroidered linens are all on a liquidation sale – extremely affordable prices starting at $4!

It's time to set that alarm, and this time, fortunately, not for another dreaded workday. Plan an early weekend outing to Eastern Market, DC's oldest standing farmer's market, located in the heart of Capitol Hill.  Be sure to hit the ATM on the way - this quintessential open market is literally brimming with picture-perfect produce, antiques, and anything else you could possible want or need.  Eccentric, yet personable vendors will definitely have you leaving with more than you came for! Cooks and foodies should be sure to wander indoors to South Hall for some real gourmet treats.  Local vendors showcase their best offerings: flawless filets, gorgeous lamb chops, and perfectly aged cheeses will definitely put your local grocer to shame.  For those who are ready to shop, head outside where artists, designers, and furniture makers from all over the Mid-Atlantic are willing and ready with amazing deals on one-of-a-kind pieces. Bottom line - this isn't your average market, and it certainly won't be an average Sunday after visiting this District hidden gem! Insider Tip: Be sure to get to the market early (between 9:00-10:00 AM) before it gets picked over.  Then head to Market Lunch, Eastern Market's restaurant counter located in South Hall - the line out the door is testament alone to their famous crab cakes!

This year, pencil in a little "me" time and treat yourself to some pre-holiday pampering at The Spa at MINT, a high end fitness center and spa, nestled in eclectic Adam's Morgan.  This urban retreat, known for its quality services and zen-like atmosphere, features a variety of spa offerings to keep you looking and feeling your best amidst all the holiday rush.  MINT offers everything from acupuncture (for the brave!) to traditional bodywork, facials, and other aesthetic services - all under a calming pastel roof, situated just beyond bustling, iconic U Street. For a truly customized experience, be sure to take advantage of MINT's seasonal, organic facials.  The current autumn concoction - a revitalizing blend of fresh cranberry, nutmeg, honey, rose and cornmeal - will leave you buffed and glowing, without breaking the bank ($60 for a 35-minute treatment).  For out-of-towners looking for total body & soul rejuvenation, check out MINT's exclusive spa packages: The Weekender features a 50-minute facial or Swedish massage, paired with complimentary lunch and an all-access weekend pass to the coveted fitness club. Insider Tip: Try MINT's Tranquil Tuesdays facials and massages.  Each 30-minute service is only $49 (Voted Best On-the-Go Spa Service by the Washingtonian)!

Work or play, SomaFit has your body's needs covered. You can start off with a killer workout in their fitness facilities then grab a healing Carnio Sacral Massage and top off the day with a treat, like the glowing Oxygen Facial. It doesn't need to be an all day excursion (although that's always on top of the wish list), you can stop in to get an express manicure or pedicure.

At SomaFit you can buy a fitness package and take a class in a Kukuwa dance workout or body sculpting, then reward yourself with pampering. Now, that’s taking care of your body.

With locations in Georgetown and Capitol Hill, Dawn Price Baby has what it takes to make sure every little one gets off to a stylish start. Whether you’re prepping for a new family member or just gift shopping, you'll go ga-ga for the adorable inventory from a variety of well-known children's wear designers. Offering everything from perfectly put-together infant outfits, to versatile cribs and carseats, Dawn Price is the one stop shop for all things high-end baby!  Opt for a gorgeous, antique cradle for that newest addition, or a fresh copy of Goodnight Moon for a  first birthday gift.  Sign up for the store's baby registry and stock up with tons of cute, yet quality newborn essentials!