As I write this introduction, I realize how many people are in my life because of Tricia Holley, and Katie Attiken is yet another. Good people attract good people, and this is so true of Tricia, as Katie is as good as they come.

I know I am not supposed to say this, but the first two things I noticed about Katie when I met her were how beautiful and tiny she was. She has this thick, perfectly blown out, shiny, dark brown hair; it’s the hair people try to replicate when they get extensions. She has the most perfect skin, a big smile, and always has something positive to say. This is why I have nicknamed her “Cute Katie.” I will never forget one day when I was walking the streets of Old Town, and the most stunning little girl turned the corner on her scooter, hair blowing in the wind like it was a commercial, and then around the corner came, who else, her mom, Katie. The apple doesn’t fall far.

But here is what surprises: this tiny package packs a punch. Katie works out daily at OrangeTheory Old Town (where she holds multiple records) or pilates at Mind the Mat. Fitness and music have been constants in her life. Don’t let her tiny frame fool you – athletically, she can outpace most, and she has the most magnificent and powerful voice. If you hear her sing, it will stop you in your tracks.

I found this out when I was looking for a voice teacher for my daughter. I texted Katie, and I think she was in my family room the next day. My daughter was just as taken by her kind nature as everyone else is. I watched her show my daughter how to find her voice and, along with it, confidence. It was magical. Katie is also married to a wonderful person (once again, good attracts good), Marlon, who, without being asked a few years ago, decided that Blair couldn’t sing Free Fallin’ in her elementary talent show without a proper guitarist. Not only did he show up to the event and bring down the house, but he was there for rehearsal as well. You could see the joy on both Katie’s and Marlon’s faces as they passed on their love of music to someone else. This is giving me an idea; I think we need another Stylebook party where Katie and Marlon perform…stay tuned for that.

I hope you enjoy getting to know Katie as much as I have over the years. Oh, I forgot to mention my two other favorite things about Katie. One: she is from Ohio, and we all know how I feel about Ohio and the people from there. Midwesterners are actually the nicest people, if I do say so myself. She was one of the only other people in Alexandria beside me with a Bengals shirt before they signed Joe Burrow. The other wonderful nugget that makes me giggle every time I see her is she walks her cat in a stroller with her hair perfectly blown out. I mean, if that doesn’t make you smile, I don’t know what will.

Photography credit: Renée C. Gage Photography

Katie is styled by The Hive and The Shoe Hive.

ABOUT YOU

Neighborhood: Old Town

How long have you lived in Alexandria: 20 years…hard to believe.

What is your hometown? Dayton, OH

What brought you to Alexandria? Job and The Husband

What would surprise people about you? I am shy and loud at the same time.

You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? Speed!

Last book read or movie seen: The Naked Don’t Fear the Water: An Underground Journey with Afghan Refugees

Guilty Pleasure: Peanut M&Ms

Phrase you overuse: “For real?”

Facebook or Instagram? Instagram

Latest binge-watch: The Flight Attendant

Bucket list travel destination: Road trip: Grand Canyon and Zion with my kids.

If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Coffee. Dark Roast!

FASHION

Define your style in three words or less: Easy, Comfy, and, hopefully, Fun.

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Lululemon Wunder Under. Shocking, I know!

Favorite current trend: Blazer with anything

Beauty product you can’t live without: Saint Jane Beauty Serum from Bellacara

Favorite fragrance: Gucci Flora

Heels or flats? Sadly, flats.

HOME

Favorite room in your home: Kitchen with my fam

Antiques, modern, or a mix? Modern

Last item bought for your home: Storm doors. Doesn’t sound exciting, but it is!

Next planned purchase: Summer flowers!

Favorite way to entertain: Backyard hang out.

Clutter-free or well-lived in? Ideally clutter free, obviously that doesn’t happen.

Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: Wall paper is goals!

FITNESS

Your go-to work-out: Orangetheory Old Town Alexandria (Shout out 10:30 am peeps!) and HAWT Pilates Mind the Mat

Most fun way to exercise: With friends!

Group exercise or solo: Group!

Fitness goal: Getting back into running outside!

Proudest fitness achievement: Sub 6 minute mile! 

ALEXANDRIA

Favorite spot in Alexandria: A perfect walk on the waterfront.

Last purchase in Alexandria: Earrings at The Hive!

Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: Mishas/SouthSide/Virtue Feed & Grain

Favorite local organization: Mount Purrnon and The Fancy Cats and Dogs Rescue Team

Favorite annual Alexandria event: Market Square Christmas Tree Lighting and Scottish Walk