Just about the only thing I have retained from my freshman year philosophy class is the idea from Heraclitus that you can't step in the same river twice. And yes, I googled how to spell Heraclitus. In other words, change is the only constant - even if I have to remind myself to embrace it. 

At Boxwood, we're saying goodbye to an extended member of our family, Melinda Hunter, as she and her husband move to their dream beach home. Melinda has brightened our sidewalk on pretty Saturdays, helped us decorate for the Scottish Christmas Home Tour, and, most importantly, led monthly floral design workshops. And while we'll miss her calm energy and depth of knowledge - we're excited to welcome Michelle Faber of District Floral to the team. 

Michelle started her career in floral design at the esteemed Helen Olivia. She launched District Floral in 2018 to provide more flexibility and balance for family life with her firefighting husband and two young sons. Since then, she has established herself as an accomplished full-service floral designer for all manner of occasions. 

Michelle cherishes the close relationships and collaborations with other designers, "I feel that the bonds I've built with others have been a powerful force in my career and life. Melinda and I always joke that she is my 'flower mom.' Sarah Mundell is also one of my favorite women to work with, the last wedding we worked on together was a huge effort, but we got it just right." 

Photo credit: Sarah Mundell

District Floral is booked for Fall 2021 events, but there's still time to design with Michelle at Boxwood. And she's looking outside the box (or vase) for fresh ideas with other talented local makers. 

For example, her first Boxwood workshop will be in honor of Old Town's Cocktail Week on Wednesday, September 15, "Sippin' and Clippin' from the Garden." Enjoy a signature cocktail demonstration and tasting with Del Ray's beloved Amy Eggers and then design a gorgeous floral centerpiece. This delightful pairing will be a feast for all the senses. Seats are limited to only eight guests, so sign up online here.

For Michelle, teaching workshops means creating an intimate design experience. She said, "Being present, disconnecting from distractions, screens, and to-do lists, and tapping into our senses is almost like therapy, but you get to bring home flowers!" 

We'll be announcing more classes - especially for the holidays - soon. 

On a more personal note, this will be my last Stylebook article. Next month, I'm opening a store in Charlottesville near downtown in the new Dairy Market food hall. It's called Brigid & Bess, and I would love to see you if you're in town visiting. 

To my Boxwood family, you are officially the best. To Stylebook Readers, I can't wait for you to get to know Joanna. She's one of the smartest, kindest, hardest working shop owners, and she's (almost) as funny as me.