Mapping Georgetown: Spice Up Your Life

As New Year’s resolutions are on our minds, here’s an opportunity make your life more zesty!  This inspiring Mapping Georgetown story features dedication, determination and the Spice of Life!

Courtesy Mapping Georgetown.

In 2010, as I whispered to myself about finding a place to truly belong, little did I know that it would be more magical than I imagined.  Envisioning a life of threading and owning a chai shop, the universe had a different plan. After enduring the challenges of moving nine times, my son Ansh Sangli and I stumbled upon our sweet 1610, a perfect spot that felt like real magic.

Gratitude fills my heart, especially for Jean Paul Amsellem, who trusted me when I had nothing. He gifted us, not just a place to live, but a haven to call home. In this lovely neighborhood, we found ourselves surrounded by beautiful souls. However, just a life seemed to settle, the unwelcome arrival of Covid-19 shattered our newfound stability.

Yet, in the face of diversity, hope endured. Supported by loyal eyebrow clients, I weathered the storm for a few months. Then, amidst the pandemic challenges, Spicez emerged – a community store born our of necessity. 

Recognizing the frustration many Indians faced in finding authentic spices and groceries, I envisioned a special place where I could contribute to the community. 

Spicez became more than a store;  It was a lifeline for the yearning for a taste of home during uncertain times. As I navigated the complexities of a new business, the community rallied behind Spicez. In this unexpected journey, I discovered that sometimes life doesn’t go as planned, something even better emerges along the way.

Never giving up my chai dream, I started Chai November 28th, 2023.  Please come by to say hi and and have a spicez delicious chai

Courtesy Mapping Georgetown.

A Note from Rani Soudagar

Hello, Georgetown! I’m Rani Soudagar, hailing from Bombay (Mumbai), India. In 1997, I journeyed to America with a commitment to support my family and pursue education. Over the years, I became a reiki master, henna artist, and chef. After attending AKS massage school in 2003, I expanded my skills through a microblading class in Texas and permanent makeup school at Vienna Esthetic Institute in 2017.

After seven rewarding years at Guven Salon, specializing in eyebrow threading, I decided to embark on a new chapter. Today, you’ll find me at 1610 Wisconsin Ave in Georgetown, realizing a vision I had in 2010. At Spicez, my community store, I share the richness of spices, food, and art from my upbringing, fostering positive changes.

Not only can you experience the warmth of Spicez, but also indulge in eyebrow threading services right here at 1610.

Family is at the core of my strength, and my 18-year-old son, Ansh currently finishing high school at Jackson Reed High, is the pillar that inspires resilience. His passion lies in media and TV shows, expressed through YouTube vlogs and the creation of lasting memories with friends @Nasher Vlogs. 

Join me on this journey of growth, connection, and the joy of being us at Spicez!

Rani and her son Ansh. Photo courtesy Rani Soudagar.

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Thank you, Rani for your personal story. And for sharing your talent in your beautiful use of the Georgetown map! We appreciate the time and effort it took. Such a gift!

To find out more about Spicez, go to SpicezDC.com.

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Our full collection of Mapping Georgetown stories in The Georgetowner can also be viewed here.

We invite you to add your story to our Mapping Georgetown collection. Blank templates can be printed from the home page of www.mappinggeorgetown.com or picked up from The Georgetown Public Library.

Mapping Georgetown is a community project. The originals will be archived in the Georgetown Neighborhood Library’s Peabody Room for posterity and be reviewed for inclusion in an anticipated publication.

To learn more about the Mapping Georgetown project view here. Marilyn Butler can be reached at marilyn.butler@gmail.com.