How did we meet Sam Kasten?! Well, let me tell you… It was the summer of 2019, Katie and I had just purchased Mint Condition and realized it needed a Megan and Katie re-do! West Elm had recently opened in Old Town, and it felt like the perfect fit for our vision for the new and improved Mint! So, our decorating rampage began. Just think of two crazy sisters-in-law running in and out of West Elm, one large SUV parked out front, and countless floor models from lamps to chairs. Plus, everything in between being dragged out by said sisters! This is the moment we met Sam! She put up with our crazy, and we knew we loved her! She knew we had just purchased Mint before we even opened our mouths (thank you, social media). She was willing to help us with our redecorating frenzy!

Fast forward a year to the summer of 2020, when Katie and I decided to open Mint Collective during the pandemic (who does that?)! Sam became a Collective loyalist over our first year in business. She and her mom were so supportive and looked great in everything! During one visit, she mentioned that she was looking for a part-time job and that she had left West Elm - that’s all we needed to hear! We scooped up that sweet gal that helped the crazy owners of Mint Condition two years prior. We are excited to have Sam more regularly this fall! Stop into Mint Collective and say hi to Sam! She will make you feel as welcome as she made us feel.

Photography credit : Sarah Marcella Creative

Sam is styled by Mint Collective and The Shoe Hive.

ABOUT YOU

Neighborhood: Old Town

How long have you lived in Alexandria: Since January 2019

What is your hometown? Bethesda, Maryland

What brought you to Alexandria? My boyfriend’s job in D.C.

What would surprise people about you? I have been sober for three years!

You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? Reading people’s minds

Favorite cocktail mocktail: Ritual Gin Alternative with fresh watermelon juice & lime

Last book read or movie seen: Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Guilty Pleasure: Binge-watching reality TV with my rescue dog, Carmel

Phrase you overuse: I’m constantly saying “not for girls” to my dog

Facebook or Instagram? Instagram

Latest binge-watch: Workin’ Moms on Netflix

Bucket list travel destination: New Zealand or Japan

If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Coffee (*decaf)

FASHION

Define your style in three words or less: Classic, but funky

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: My Vejas from The Shoe Hive

Favorite trend ever: Athleisure

Favorite current trend: Cool nails!

Beauty product you can’t live without: Lipstick

Favorite fragrance: Anatomy of a Fragrance Honey Rose

Heels or flats? Flats

HOME

Favorite room in your home: My closet!

Antiques, modern, or a mix? A mix

Last item bought for your home: Annie Sloan paint from Boxwood to repurpose two older pieces

Next planned purchase: Flowers, always.

Favorite way to entertain: Anything involving a cheese plate

Clutter-free or well-lived in? Clutter-free, but I have been told I have a few too many knick knacks…

Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: LOVE! I’ve been thinking about putting some wallpaper in my closet.

FITNESS

Your go-to work-out: Running

Most fun way to exercise: Walking my dog!

Group exercise or solo: Solo

Fitness goal: Run a 10K

Haven’t yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: A group class or kickboxing

Proudest fitness achievement: Getting back to the gym a few months ago after taking a break for a few years!

ALEXANDRIA

Favorite spot in Alexandria: Anywhere on the waterfront in Old Town

Last purchase in Alexandria: Lunch at The People’s Drug, a cute top from Mint Collective & smoothies at South Block

Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: best coffee: Mischa’s and best happy hour or date night spot: King’s Ransom (*they have fabulous non-alcoholic drinks!)

Favorite charity: Animal Welfare League of Alexandria and Lost Dog & Cat Rescue—we adopted both of our dogs from them!

Favorite annual Alexandria event: Alexandria’s birthday celebration & fireworks