In this week's Street Style, we are excited to introduce you to Joanna Szczerban, Co-Owner of Boxwood (you know the other Co-Owner, Leah, from Boxwood's Stylebook posts). A staple in Old Town, Boxwood has become Alexandria's "go-to" shop for eclectic home decor, accessories, and gifts. Since it's opening in April of 2019, Joanna has poured her love, energy, and creative flair into making every inch of the shop just as fun and colorful as she is! In her free time, you can find Joanna power walking with her lab Cody, bike riding around the monuments downtown, or filling up Boxwood's website with the latest and greatest in home decor. 

Photography: Sarah Marcella Creative

ABOUT YOU

How long have you lived in Alexandria? I have lived in Alexandria for about 32 years.

Favorite item of clothing in your closet? A pair of comfy jeans and a t-shirt.

Biggest inspiration? I must say at this time it’s Dr. Fauci. I have full trust in that man.

Dogs or cats? Dogs of course; they are just so happy and full of loyalty and love!

ABOUT YOUR STORE

What inspired you to start your business? My mother first inspired me to open my business. She was a retail business owner herself and had me working in her store all throughout high school. She taught me everything about retail and definitely put the bug in me to be my own boss.

What are three of your favorite items currently at your shop? Oh, there is so much that I love, but if I must say three items I would say the amazing pottery crafted by Jill Rosenwald and her husband Lawrence McMae. It’s all so beautiful. Another favorite is the Annie Sloan Chalk Paint. I just love that you can transform an old beat-up piece of furniture into a breathtaking jewel! My third item would be the Telki floor mats. I just recently put one on my back porch and it’s so stunning. Can I say a fourth? Great… the Tulusa line of products from local artist, Sue Henry. Her textile products are creative, beautiful, and full of color. We now carry her masks and they are flying out the door.

Favorite “buy” of all time? My home. It’s such a sweet home that my husband and I purchased to raise our family in. 

AT THIS TIME

How can the community support you and your employees during this time? As we battle through this crazy time, Leah and I would be grateful if the community continues to shop and buy local. Please also tell your friends about us! Boxwood now has an online store for those who prefer to shop at home and inventory is constantly being added. Simply click on “shop online” at www.boxwoodoldtown.com.

One act of kindness you’ve witnessed? Just yesterday, I saw a young man riding his bike passing an elderly woman in her car who was trying to parallel park. I witnessed him looking back at her as he turned his bike around. He got off his bike and started directing her into the parking space. After multiple tries, she just could not get her car into the space. She became so frustrated, but he yelled to her that she was doing a fantastic job. With his kind words led her to try one more time and it worked! She managed to get her car into the spot and he ran around to her driver side and gave her an elbow touch through the window. You should have seen her smile… priceless!

Favorite new hobby? Bike riding with my kids. We rode around the D.C. monuments recently and had a blast!

Top must-read books?The Gift from the Sea, by Anne Morrow Lindbergh.

Binge-worthy suggestion(s)?The Crown on Netflix.

What local business have you supported this week? The Shoe Hive for some sandals and Fontaine for that delicious breakfast cob.

Favorite carry-out restaurant? Hummingbird's "Grill and Chill Bag" is so delicious and Momo Sushi has my all-time favorite sushi.

Favorite family pastime? Spending our summers in Maine

.Go-to at-home workout? Power walking in the neighborhood with my pal Cody, my English labrador. 

To learn more about Joanna and Boxwood, check out their website at www.boxwoodoldtown.com & follow Boxwood on Instagram @boxwoodoldtown.