Street Style: Andrea Smith
If you asked folks to name the small business that represents Alexandria the most, I am confident almost 100 percent of them would say it's Misha's Coffeehouse. It is an institution, it is a gathering place, and that orange cup is a cup of comfort for many of us. Not everyone realizes that Misha's is actually owned by two people - the namesake Misha and Andrea Smith. She has been running things behind the scenes for decades, and most days, you can find her roasting the coffee that has become the signature smell of Old Town. My kids attended Old Town Montessori School, and every day after drop-off, the smell of the coffee filled the air and would help me start my day as much as the actual coffee itself.
Misha's recently opened a second location at the foot of Prince Street, part of our new and amazing waterfront. The spot was really Andrea's baby, complete with the much-loved locally roasted coffee drinks and also beer and wine service in custom wine glasses that feature latte art etched into the bottom of the glass. Of course, her businesses don't stop there; she owns Trident Athletics as well with her husband, Chriss. My younger sister worked for Andrea for many years, and yes, she is a fierce businesswoman, but she is so kind and generous. Every time I run into her at Misha's, she is always asking about how my stores are doing and about my sister and her kids. She is genuine, which is why all of her businesses are so successful.
She is a powerhouse, literally and figuratively. She was recently inducted into the Virginia State Strength and Power Hall of Fame. If you have stopped in Old Town's Lululemon, you will see this Old Town power couple on the wall since they are ambassadors. But really, Andrea is the ambassador of the entire Alexandria small business community. The landscape of Old Town would not be the same without her.
Photography credit: Sarah Marcella Creative
Andrea is styled by The Hive and The Shoe Hive.
ABOUT YOU
Neighborhood: Old Town
How long have you lived in Alexandria: 30 years
What is your hometown? Burke, VA
What brought you to Alexandria? Misha's
What would surprise people about you? 4 Time World Champion- Master's Weightlifting
You're a superhero: what's your superpower? Mind Reading
Favorite cocktail: Natural Wine
Last book read or movie seen: Book-The Energy Formula; Movie: Gunpowder Milkshake
Guilty Pleasure: People magazine
Phrase you overuse: I love it!
Facebook or Instagram? Not great with either
Latest binge-watch: Ted Lasso
Bucket list travel destination: Maldives
If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Coffee, but that's just mean.
FASHION
Define your style in three words or less: Lululemon, Rocker
The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Tank Top
Favorite trend ever: Leather Pants
Favorite current trend: Retro 90's
Beauty product you can't live without: Lash Extensions
Favorite fragrance: Oribe Cote D’Azure
Heels or flats? Heels
HOME
Favorite room in your home: Living Room
Antiques, modern, or a mix? Modern
Last item bought for your home: Desk Chair
Next planned purchase: TV
Favorite way to entertain: Drinks on Rooftop
Clutter-free or well-lived in? Well Lived
Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: No but not against it.
FITNESS
Your go-to work-out: CrossFit/Weightlifting
Most fun way to exercise: Anything at Trident
Group exercise or solo: Both
Fitness goal: Break World Record in Weightlifting when I'm 50
Proudest fitness achievement: Virginia Strength and Power Hall of Fame Inductee-2020
ALEXANDRIA
Favorite spot in Alexandria: Misha's & Trident Athletics
Last purchase in Alexandria: Dinner at Ada's
Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Misha's
Favorite charity: Navy SEAL Foundation and Animal Welfare League
