It’s spring and Covid is gone-ish (hopefully for good). Here at Alexandria Stylebook, we’re using the changing seasons to launch a new series titled “Here We Are.” Our contributors keep us in the know on all the events and activities happening around town. This series showcases these events and the community that comes together to make each event successful (and maybe even give you a little nudge to join us next time!)

It was late, well past the time I expected to be home. Walking up the golden lamp lit streets of Old Town I couldn’t help but feel like I had just experienced something truly remarkable. An experience made whole by the people who came together to create a space where you had permission to be yourself and were encouraged to sneak cookies into your bag for a midnight snack (more on that later). It was the feeling of contentment that comes from being a part of a group of women who bring out the best in each other.

Joanna Szczerban, the amazing owner of Boxwood, worked with the moderator, Brittany Wheeler of Beam of Light Consulting to plan an epic series of events to showcase local leaders, makers, and all-stars through the month of March – you may remember reading about the series in Joanna’s recent article.

The first of three in the Empowering Local Powerful Women Speaker Series, She Wears Many Hats, was held last Thursday evening with three panelists on deck to talk about all they do and how they do it. An event advertised as a conversation on achievement and accomplishments humbly turned into an evening that gave everyone permission to shine. Here are our favorite takeaways from the panelists:

The cookies that we all stowed in our bags inspired by Shamena’s plans to enjoy the cookies that were hiding in her purse on the couch in her pjs were bright and citrusy with a touch of cayenne to bring sunshine to life made by vegan chef Zaria Stoot from Food by Zaria. Sam Kasten from Umbrella Dry Drinks delivered the perfect pairing with an unbelievably delicious tangerine margarita.

Style Spotlights

Of course, as Stylebook, we have to give a nod to the style statements of the evening. We loved seeing classic pearls with a unique twist! Sam rocked the pearl hair clips that went viral pre-pandemic and Beza Ayalew, co-founder of The Inovo Firm, won the thrift store lottery with a gorgeous sequined pencil skirt and blouse set which she topped with strands of pearls for the perfect statement. And, we can’t forget about Joanna’s stunning red dress paired perfectly with block heels, a gold cuff, and skinny hoops – so chic!

What better way to celebrate our reemergence from Covid quarantine than by recognizing the strengths of women who have held it all together for more than two years. Boxwood’s celebration of women continues all month long – next Thursday’s panel is all about design! See you there!