Del Ray Hardware Wins 2026 Heart of Del Ray Award

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The 2026 Heart of Del Ray Award was presented to Del Ray Hardware on Feb. 13 by the Del Ray Business Association.

The annual award, given to the business or organization that represents the heart and soul of Del Ray, is determined by a public vote of neighbors and customers.

"Jay and Edea Portlance took over the hardware store two years ago. As you know, it's been a staple in our town and we were very worried about losing it — we could never have imagined that they would come in, take it over, and make it so much better," said Del Ray Business Association President Lauren Fisher in a news release.

After taking over Del Ray Hardware in 2024, the Portlances put their stamp on the neighborhood institution. The recent addition of Del Ray Farmhouse & Market transformed the block, making the intersection of Mt. Vernon and Howell Avenue a one-stop shop for everything from hardware needs, garden supplies, gifts, local produce, and more, the business group said.

"What Jay has done with this business is remarkable — it is such a resource for us in the neighborhood. He and his team put so much thought into carrying exactly what we need — anything they don’t have, they can order. This year has been about shopping as locally as possible for me and Del Ray Hardware makes it not only possible but also feel wonderfully connected while I do it," wrote one customer.

"Del Ray Hardware embodies everything that makes this neighborhood special: warmth, reliability, and genuine community care. This isn’t just a hardware store; it’s a neighborhood hub where advice is free, help is personal, and relationships matter," wrote another patron.

The hardware store, located at 2003-B Mount Vernon Ave., is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Past winners of the award include A Show of Hands, Jen Walker of McEnearney Associates, Bobi Bomar Homes of Alexandria, The Neighborhood Pharmacy of Del Ray, Greener Cleaner of Del Ray, Del Ray Pizzeria, Mind the Mat Pilates & Yoga, Caboose Cafe, Del Ray Cafe, HomeGrown Restaurant Group, Taqueria Poblano, Ms. Preeti's 7-11, Dolce & Bean, and Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, the Del Ray Farmers' Market, The Friends of Duncan Library, The Dog Store/Your Dog's Best Friends, and Gustave Boulangerie.

The Del Ray Business Association represents the independently-owned restaurants, retailers, and businesses in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria.

For more information, visit www.visitdelray.com.