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Lee Williams of Bloomingdale’s

Friendship Heights has seen its share of changes over the years, but one thing remains constant—Bloomingdale’s continues to be a cornerstone of the community. Since April 2019, Lee Williams, a dedicated general manager at Bloomingdale’s, has witnessed the neighborhood evolve through challenges and renewal.

“I got here in 2019, and by 2020, COVID was on the scene,” Lee recalls. The pandemic led to a six-week store closure, and while some businesses managed to return, others did not. The loss of Mazza Gallerie and Neiman Marcus was a major shift in the retail landscape, marking a turning point for the area.

So, what has kept Bloomingdale’s going? Its customers.

“Our superpower is that we’re a neighborhood store,” Lee shares. Unlike flagship locations, Bloomingdale’s in Friendship Heights thrives on deep-rooted relationships. “Most of our customers live here in Friendship Heights or Montgomery County, and they tell us all the time how happy they are that we’re still here.”

Beyond shopping, the store offers something more— a sense of connection. “It’s a beautiful store that has aged so well. It’s a great place to shop or even window shop,” Lee says. Over the years, he has come to admire the neighborhood’s resilience and the energy of its people. “Seeing all the boarded-up storefronts change and new life come into the area is exciting.”

When asked what he loves most about Friendship Heights, Lee is quick to answer: “The sense of community. The people who come into the store make it feel like family.” And if you’re looking to bump into him outside of Bloomingdale’s? You might just find him at Whole Foods.

To explore Bloomingdale's latest selections, visit bloomingdales.com and stop by the store to see the newest designer offerings in person.

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