14 DAY TRIAL // Apple has started sending out emails to those subscribed to receive newsletters informing that its first retail store in the District is opening Friday evening. Early renderings of the Georgetown store showed interior trees under a skylight, although the store has no trees inside as of now. The Grand Opening is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Friday. Closing time is 9 p.m.
“Come to the new Apple Store, Georgetown, and bring your curiosity,” Apple states in the email sent out to subscribers. “It's the best place to learn all about the Mac, get set up on iPhone, see the amazing things iPad can do, check out iPod—and even get advice for your business. If you find something you like, take it home that day. When you get to the store, find a Specialist in a blue shirt—they're your guides to everything from checking in for an appointment to checking out instantly,” the company’s message reads.
Apple reveals that current Mac owners can buy a One to One membership (normally available only with the purchase of a new Mac) in celebration of the new store’s Grand Opening. The first 1,000 customers to go through the store’s doors will get a free commemorative T-shirt, in what is tradition at Apple.
According to The Washington Post, Apple is formally opening its Georgetown location after years of long arguments over the storefront design. In fact, it took Apple about three years to schedule this Grand Opening, the report reveals. When the Mac maker bought the property at 1229 Wisconsin Ave. NW, the Old Georgetown Board did not originally approve the plans for the building, citing concerns that the store's design would not mesh with the area's historic image. They reportedly came to an agreement with Apple later. The Georgetown store is Apple’s 290th retail establishment so far.