I can’t remember when I first met Teal, but it seems like she’s always been one of my favorite fellow retailers. Teal runs Lotus Blooms at 1017 King Street. Her store was the first adult store that I remember feeling comfortable in. She’s created an environment that has the look and feel of a true boutique, a more elegant and elevated vibe (see my pun there) than you would expect for a shop that focuses on sexuality. The inventory of lingerie, toys, and books is carefully curated, body-positive, size-inclusive, and safe. Her Instagram is so educational that I find myself clicking back through previous posts to make sure that I didn’t miss anything. She’s assembled a team with knowledge and education who make everyone feel comfortable in a space that can be intimidating for those who have never been.  

Teal and I often found ourselves next to each other at business meetings, as we share a sass and snark that is best in the company of others who “get” us. She stands out in a crowd for sure, with her amazing red hair and fabulous laugh.  And Teal has some serious backbone. It is no easy task to lead an Old Town business as unique as Lotus Blooms. She’s commanded respect from our business community, the city, and our residents by doing what she’s doing so incredibly well and with elegance. 

Photography credit: Sarah Marcella

ABOUT YOU

How do you spend your time? Hanging out with nieces and nephews, slowly but surely working towards the finish line of our 2+ year house renovation, and teaching my three border collies how to talk using AAC buttons!

Neighborhood: Fairfax Station

What is your hometown? Grew up in Southern CA and lived there for 18 years. About 15 years ago, I left for Northern Virginia and never really looked back. Virginia is home

You’re a superhero: what’s your superpower? Being able to focus!

Favorite cocktail: A margarita on the rocks with salt is the most perfect summer drink

Last book read or movie seen: Without fail, I fall asleep through every single movie I try and watch, so I stopped trying years ago. The last book I read was “This Body is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self Love” by Sonya Renee Taylor.

Guilty Pleasure: Pleasure shouldn’t feel guilty =]

Facebook or Instagram? I spend more time on IG, but I’m really bad about actually posting much of anything, and I love my neighborhood Buy Nothing group.

Latest binge-watch: Oh gosh, we watched “the 100”. I was so over starting shows with only one season, so we chose the first show we could find with a ton of episodes and seasons. It was a little more sci-fi than I like, but at least I didn’t get invested in the characters only to be left hanging after one season!

Bucket list travel destination: I would love to visit Greece

If you only could have one for the rest of your life: wine or coffee? Nope, not choosing.

FASHION

Define your style in three words or less: Casual femme.

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: I love a maxi dress

Favorite trend ever: Jumpsuits! They are so comfy and make me feel a little more put together

Favorite current trend: Face masks!

Beauty product you can’t live without: Supergoop SPF. As a pale redhead growing up in the desert of SoCal, I have a love-hate relationship with sunscreen and believe me, I’ve tried them all. Supergoop doesn’t feel greasy and doesn’t smell like sunscreen

Heels or flats? Flats, I’m too uncoordinated for heels!

HOME

Favorite room in your home: My screen porch, I spend as much time as possible out there when the weather allows.

Antiques, modern, or a mix? Is industrial cozy

Last item bought for your home: An outdoor swing chair. My favorite way to drink my coffee In the mornings

Favorite way to entertain: Family-style hangs with good drinks and good people

Clutter-free or well-lived in? One day we’ll be clutter-free (who am I kidding)

Wallpaper -- yes, totally modern or no, so dated: I’m forever scarred from removing wallpaper. No thanks.

FITNESS

Most fun way to exercise: Hiking beautiful views

Group exercise or solo: Solo

Fitness goal: As a former athlete, I’m working on trying to shift my focus from training for something to simply moving for the sake of seeing what my body can do. It’s a relearning for sure!

ALEXANDRIA

Best coffee / happy hour/date night spot: We are super into the Mussels from Augies right now! Plus, how can you beat the gorgeous outside setting?

Favorite charity: Casa Ruby is a local homeless shelter and advocacy organization for the LGBTQ community and is run and led by transgender women of color.