I am not sure how long ago I met Stephanie Landrum, but it has been over a decade for sure. I feel like we have, in a way, grown up together in the Alexandria business community. For whatever reason, we have always gotten along and she has put up with my crazy emails stalking her about which businesses are coming to Old Town. It is almost a game now to see if I can figure it out before a public announcement is made; I know I drive her nuts.But now, she really doesn’t have time for my games. She is the CEO of the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) and she is the one spearheading all the amazing changes in Alexandria to put us at the forefront of the digital economy. I, of course, consider her greatest accomplishment to be bringing Dry Bar to Old Town. Others might say it is the Amazon HQ2 and the Virginia Tech Campus.Needless to say, she is a boss and next week she is being honored by the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce as the Business Leader of the Year. They could expand that from “year” to “decade." We all owe her a big thanks. She cares about this community and she is dedicated to making sure it grows and develops the right way. She works non-stop for this town that she loves - so join me in finding a way to love her back. 

ABOUT YOU

 Neighborhood: Potomac YardHow long have you lived in Alexandria: 10 yearsWhat is your hometown? Mount Vernon area of Fairfax CountyWhat brought you to Alexandria? My parents - I was born at INOVA Alexandria hospitalWhat would surprise people about you? My taste in musicYou’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? TeleportationFavorite cocktail: Anything with tequila!Last book read or movie seen: Small FryGuilty Pleasure: Sour Patch KidsPhrase you overuse: Right?!?!Facebook or Instagram? IGLatest binge-watch: Latest season of Black MirrorBucket list travel destination: DubaiIf you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Wine- Sauvignon Blanc   

FASHION

 Define your style in three words or less: Professional, then casualThe go-to piece in your wardrobe: Professionally: the perfect structured dress. Personally: skinny jeansFavorite trend ever: Big sunglassesFavorite current trend: AthleisureBeauty product you can’t live without: Coola matte tint sunscreenFavorite fragrance: Harvey Prince SincerelyHeels or flats? Heels  

FITNESS

 Your go-to work-out: Peloton!!Most fun way to exercise: Riding with my Peloton #squad most morningsGroup exercise or solo: BothFitness goal: Staying healthy and high energyHaven’t yet, but might be willing to try with coaching / encouragement: New Row House in Old Town NorthProudest fitness achievement: Finishing sprint triathlons  

ALEXANDRIA

 Favorite spot in Alexandria: Literally impossible to pick one!Last purchase in Alexandria: I’ve been traveling a lot lately (everyone wants to learn about Alexandria!), but I grabbed a latte at Buzz before hitting the airport.Best coffee / happy hour / date night spot: I’m an equal opportunity happy hour goer, so you are just as likely to find me at The Majestic as you are at Cheesetique or Tequila and Taco or The Peoples Drug (to name just a few 😉)!Favorite charity: There are so many amazing nonprofits working on behalf of Alexandria and the region- it’s hard to pick a favorite, but I will call out my friends at The Art League and ACT for Alexandria, where I’ve served on their Boards in recent years.Favorite annual Alexandria event: I love the Parade of Lights, and have gotten the chance to be a judge the last few years- the visual of 30 or more boats parading down the waterfront in December is a great way to kick-off the holiday season!