The fire that engulfed Madame Coco Chocolate Emporium, along with two other beloved women-owned businesses, marked a heart-wrenching moment for all involved. What began as an ordinary evening quickly transformed into a scene of devastation that would shake the very foundation of our community. And yet, even amid the ashes and ruin, there were glimmers of hope that reminded us of the resilience within and around us.

Located in the snowy landscapes of Rovaniemi, Finland, Santa’s Village brings the magic of Christmas to life every day of the year. Officially recognized as the hometown of Santa Claus, this enchanting destination in the Arctic Circle offers visitors an unforgettable experience filled with holiday cheer, adventure, and unique cultural traditions.

With a larger-than-life holiday display, a weekly fireworks show, and festive spa specials, MGM National Harbor is the ultimate holiday staycation destination. The property has transformed into a winter wonderland with activities for the whole family to enjoy and celebrate the yuletide season.

As you are reading this you might be trying to figure out how to get your last-minute Christmas shopping done. Well, look no further than Old Town Alexandria. If you are still trying to cross people off your list this late in the game, then you really have to buy for them in a brick-and-mortar store. I thought I would share how I checked a long list of people of all ages off my list—all in Old Town.

There’s always that one individual that makes you sweat come holiday shopping time – because they have absolutely EVERYTHING. They’re on top of trends and have the “it” gadget before it's available to anyone else on planet Earth, they also have a vintage collection that museums would fight over and they’re non-expressive and unimpressed (though polite), whenever it’s time to open your present. But…maybe they don’t have one of these:

Season’s greetings from your neighborhood bookseller, a 40-year-old woman who has, according to her Christmas list, leaned in to becoming a caricature of an eccentric bookshop owner. In addition to the following gift ideas on my list this year (only some of which are truly strange), I have also included book recommendations to help steer your gifting this year. 

When I first walked into Reza Mohammadi’s tailored clothing shop, BARG Garments on 108 N. Alfred Street, I felt like I was visiting a friend’s home. He was very polite, always smiling and brought me a cup of tea and some chocolates when we sat down to chat. He had emailed me a few weeks earlier, curious to know more about the small business community in Alexandria.

I invite you to embrace the most accessible beauty secret: dedicating time to yourself. This practice not only redefines vanity but also nurtures the soul. In our fast-paced lives, we often wear our exhaustion as a badge of honor, neglecting simple pleasures like taking a moment to breathe or appreciating our loved ones.

Why does he always say he doesn’t need anything, and then looks sad when all the gifts under the tree are for the kids – and you! Surprise him this year with something unique and something he needs, not socks or a sweater, because you know your mother-in-law has that covered. Here’s a guide from our local experts:

Melonie Johnson is sitting on a bench outside Ada’s on the River. The morning fog has begun to lift and across the river we can clearly see the towering hotel at MGM National Harbor, where Melonie oversees all day-to-day operations as President and Chief Operating Officer. 

One of the biggest complaints an attorney hears from clients, or from clients switching firms is that their attorney didn’t get back to them often enough or fast enough. There are a variety of reasons for this, and I thought it might be helpful for a lay person to understand why.

I’m grateful for a wonderful week celebrating and reflecting on all the goodness that surrounds us…especially at Renée C. Gage Photography. There are so many women in our community that raise each other up to create, help and bring us all together! 

The magic of the holiday season comes alive in Europe’s iconic Christmas markets. From medieval settings to modern winter wonderlands, these festive markets are brimming with seasonal treats, handmade crafts, and unique cultural experiences. Here’s your guide to the best Christmas markets across Europe for 2024.

I’m grateful to my parents for leaving their rural roots behind in pursuit of a better life in Northern Virginia. In their communities, during that time, imagining a career as an artist would have been nearly impossible. Growing up surrounded by art and artists allowed me to dream of what could be. Proximity to museums and galleries can be a powerful spark for a young mind, and it certainly was for me.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…and the most wonderfully expensive! That new plaid dress for Taste of Scotland, tickets to A Christmas Carol at the Alexandria Little Theatre, and – the big one – holiday gift giving. It can add up quickly and easily, getting swept away by the holiday decorations, marketing enticements, and the ease of tapping that credit card at checkout.

Alexandria has great architecture and history. It always had the “good bones” to be a destination. But what makes it great are the people. After owning retail shops here for 21 years, I know there’s not a more loyal clientele or a more collaborative community of small business owners. And bonus, there’s a core group of phenomenal female entrepreneurs who make big things happen.

Located in the heart of Del Ray at 2016 Mount Vernon Avenue, Mulberry Lane Play Café is redefining family spaces by blending imaginative play for kids with opportunities for parents to relax, connect, or work—all under one roof. Described as “Balanced Family Fun, Your New BFF,” this innovative café is quickly becoming a favorite for local families.

I asked her about the business she was opening in Old Town. Her confidence and calm was something that instantly put me at ease. As she shared her journey, she felt like one of my girlfriends – and we had just met. This was going to be her third location, she was already a seasoned entrepreneur. Even a slight delay here or there wasn’t going to stop her momentum.

If traveling and being with family fills you with joy and is what you need this year, then here are a few tips to make it easy. You don’t have to do it alone. If you’re traveling with a partner, they should share the load. I’m talking to you, Moms. It is not your job to manage everything and make everyone happy. A partnership means they fully participate.

Thanksgiving arrives next week, officially kicking off the holiday season. We all hold dear our traditions and ways of sharing our gratitude. It may be a turkey trot in the morning, Friendsgiving, dinner out at a local restaurant, hosting family from out-of-town or traveling to visit loved ones. We asked our contributors to share their Thanksgiving traditions and a few also shared their favorite dish.