In an industry that constantly reinvents itself, Debbie Bates-Schrott’s legacy isn’t just the agencies she built or the campaigns she led. It’s the relationships she nurtured, the risks she took that paid off, and the confidence that even when someone tells you it won’t work – you can prove them wrong. And Debbie has done just that.

Let’s be honest: most Easter chocolate just doesn’t taste good—waxy, bland, and carried entirely by cute packaging. Somewhere between sacred indulgence and supermarket shelves, we lowered the bar, and it shows. This season, it’s time to expect more from what’s in your basket.

I think we all need Spring now more than ever. I present to you my “Ode for Spring.” Not entirely a happy painting, as most daffodils express, but an honest reflection of where my heart is this spring. Introspective and thankful for all of life's beauties. Even if they are temporary or unfair.

If you've lived in Alexandria for any amount of time, you already know: this city shows up for its neighbors, for its local businesses, for the people and organizations doing the hard, quiet, essential work that makes this community what it is. That's what Spring2ACTion is all about.

It is so exciting for American Society of Photographers to have our Resonance Collection at Nepenthe Art Gallery! It truly ties together so many things I cherish in life and photography. People creating and growing a community, artists sharing their creativity and a space to share with others — bringing joy and inspiration to our photography world!

From the very beginning, this home was shaped by a shared understanding between client and team. Working alongside Convene Architecture, Lakewood Home Builders, and Kristin Try Interiors, we approached the project not simply as a renovation, but as the continuation of a deeply personal family story—one rooted in memory, loss, and legacy.

As we age, changes in the face tend to happen gradually—volume loss, sagging skin, deeper folds, and less collagen. When patients start exploring ways to restore a more youthful appearance, two options often come up: Sculptra injections or a facelift surgery.

One of the things I love most about living in this community is how people come together for one another, especially when it matters most. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing so many wonderful families, watching their children grow up and become incredible young adults who are already making a difference in the world.

For Kristen Coffield, wellness isn’t a trend, it’s a way of life. As the founder of The Culinary Cure, she has spent decades helping women reclaim their energy, health, and sense of self through practical, resilient wellness. Now, she’s turning her focus to a powerful and personal chapter—Active Grandparenting—showing modern grandparents how to transform this stage of life into one of the most vibrant yet.

This Saturday, March 14, we are celebrating (almost) 19 years of business! I have always thought about doing an anniversary event—and have even done one or two over the years—but our anniversary is technically in the fall. That time of year is just too busy to add another event. So, we are moving it. Why not? They’re my stores. I can break the rules, right?

Solo travel is having a moment. Nearly 40% of female travelers are planning a solo trip this year, and women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s are leading the charge. But here’s what the travel guides don’t always tell you: how you prepare before you leave matters just as much as where you’re going.

This March, Mystique Jewelers invites couples to celebrate their love stories in style with its exclusive Dream Bigger: Wedding Band Event, happening throughout March. With special savings, expanded collections, and a brand-new interactive design experience, the event is designed to help brides and grooms find — or create — wedding bands as unique as their commitment.

Depending on the day, there may be more astronauts in outer space than there are traditional bespoke shoemakers in America. And with each bespoke pair taking at least 100—sometimes closer to 200—hours to make, finding clients is the least of our concerns. So why aren’t there more shoemakers? Better yet, why aren’t there more artisanal craftspeople in general—and what can you do to help?

If you’ve ever owned a signature scent, hunted one down, or caught a fleeting trace and still regret not asking what it was, you know that a great scent lingers in memory long after it fades from skin. That identity defining and time-stopping relationship with scent is what drives Arielle Weinberg and Katri Haas, co-owners of the perfume playground, Arielle Shoshana.

The holidays are a time for excess, but once the new year hits, we’re all trying to do more with less. Spring cleaning is just around the corner, and at Neat Method, we’re here to share our tried-and-true tips for staying clutter-free.

In a town that appreciates fresh flowers as much as Alexandria does, there’s nothing better than walking into a room and being greeted by something beautiful on the table. The good news? Whether your flowers came from the corner market or your favorite local florist, a few thoughtful habits can add days — sometimes even a full week — to their life.

Last month a client walked into our frame studio with a bird painting that needed help. The painting itself was dynamic with bold color, confident brushwork, and a terrific expression. Clearly the work of a skilled painter who knew the subject well. And yet… it fell short. I don’t know how long my client lived with it in that state, but the truth is this: many strong works of art are quietly diminished by their frame and mounting.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, March 5, from 12–4 p.m. as Patina welcomes author Robert F. Weinhagen Jr. for a book signing of Old Town Style, a beautifully curated tribute to the architecture and enduring character that define Old Town.

I’m not sure about you, but I am SO ready to start thinking about warmer weather—and with that comes spring cleaning! If you’re the type of person who loves a good reset (and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a color-coded calendar, restocked desk supplies, and a freshly organized desktop?), I’ve got a financial spring cleaning checklist for you.

Walk into Wine Gallery 108 and you will immediately notice a difference from the ho-hum wine aisle at your local supermarket or big-box retailer. This wine shop exudes creativity, warmth, and hospitality.