Our Story
From everyday wear to your most delicate pieces, Presto Valet has delivered trusted garment care for over 70 years.
Explore Who We Are?
We are a Certified Environmental Dry Cleaner
At Presto Valet, we are more than just a dry cleaner—we have been proudly serving the community since 1951. For over seven decades, we have combined exceptional customer service with state-of-the-art technology and environmentally responsible practices to deliver outstanding garment care. As a certified environmental dry cleaner, we proudly use the GreenEarth Cleaning system, an innovative process that replaces harsh petrochemical solvents with liquid silicone, a safe, odorless, and eco-friendly solution that protects both fabrics and the planet.
We believe our people are the heart of our success. Our employees take pride in their work, and in return, we invest in their growth and well-being. We are a member of the Dry Cleaning & Laundry Institute (DLI), and many of our team members have completed specialized training through DLI. They continue to refine their expertise through ongoing education to stay current with the latest cleaning techniques and fabric-care standards. Their dedication is reflected in every garment they handle—if you’re not happy, they’re not happy. At Presto Valet, we care deeply about our customers, our community, and the environment, and we bring that care into everything we do.
See Our Journey
Founded in Alexandria, Virginia on April 7, 1951 @ 1623 N. Quaker Lane
April 7, 1951
Presto Valet Opens
Harold J. Weisblut (“Mr. Harold”) & Jessie
Presto Valet opened at 1623 N. Quaker Lane, Alexandria, VA—named for its promise of fast, meticulous service. With experience as an accountant and owner of several D.C. dry‑cleaning stores, Mr. Harold built an on‑site production plant focused on quality and customer care.
April 1967 → 1979
Buddy Joins, Then Leads
Richard “Buddy” Gritz
After 7 years in the U.S. Air Force and marrying Harold’s daughter, Janet, Buddy joined Presto Valet in 1967. When Harold retired in 1979, Buddy assumed ownership, continuing the family’s commitment to excellence.
1982–Late 1990s
Dianne & Chat Grow the Team
Dianne & Michael “Chat” Chatelain
Dianne was hired in 1982 as a clerk and rose to assistant manager, then manager. In 1985, her husband Chat joined. Dianne led customer service while Chat ran production—both later became minority owners in the late 1990s.
1990s–Today
Production Led by a Pro
Augustus “Frank” Pannell
A U.S. Army veteran and former store owner, Frank had managed multiple locations for Galaxy Cleaners before joining Presto Valet in the 1990s. For 30+ years he has led production with skill, dedication, and a commitment to quality.
2000s
Certified Environmental Dry Cleaning
GreenEarth® System & Community Recognition
Presto Valet became a certified environmental dry cleaner and adopted the GreenEarth® cleaning system—gentle on fabrics and better for the planet. Around this time, we became a preferred cleaner for institutions including the Washington Opera, Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, National Theater, and others.
2021–Present
New Stewards of the Legacy
Nimesh & Janette
Following the retirement of longtime managers Dianne and Chat in 2021, Nimesh and Janette proudly took ownership of Presto Valet, continuing its legacy of quality and care. Nimesh brings over a decade of leadership experience, having managed Parklane Cleaners for ten years and owned Express Dry Cleaning since 2018. His expertise spans retail operations, production management, and route logistics. Janette contributes nearly five years of retail management experience from her time at Dry Clean 175, bringing a strong focus on customer service and day-to-day operations.
Together, Nimesh and Janette are committed to preserving Presto Valet’s long-standing reputation for excellence while introducing modern practices, innovative technology, and environmentally responsible cleaning methods to serve our community for years to come.
1951–Present
75+ Years of Community Trust
Generations of Customers & Staff
Presto Valet is known for exceptional service, meticulous garment care, and deep Alexandria roots—serving generations, including notable customers such as Presidents Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan.
