Tony has always been fascinated with the ocean and its mysteries. “Since I was five or six years old, I will do anything I can to learn more about marine life.” As a kid, his curiosity sparked during Shark Week, and he watched shark specials nonstop every day after school for years. His love of the ocean is also clearly tied to his love for St. Croix.  “It’s my home away from home. When I turned 25, I realized I had never left the coast. I wanted to travel more, I had only been to Florida. We found a beautiful island, far enough away to get some of those travel miles in…with culture and immersive history. We stayed for a week, and now we return every other year.”

His “we” includes husband Nathan, whom he met in high school (Freedom in Woodbridge). They went their separate ways and reconnected in college, hanging out every weekend. “I found a really good friend that knew me.” 

Nathan works at Mekanic, a branding agency in Old Town, the creative juice behind the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce’s rebrand in 2019. Through this connection, Tony started attending Chamber events (40 over 40, Best in Business) and embraced the collaborative vibe. 

“What I loved about the Chamber is the sense of camaraderie…though businesses are competitive, they’re still collaborative. I’ve never felt that in a city before.” When his predecessor left the Chamber he was encouraged to apply for the role. And he did. He joined in May of 2022 and is responsible for member recruitment and retention. His work keeps him busy; he is constantly meeting with local business owners and making new connections in the community. But he finds the fuel, because the people are amazing.

To take a respite, he likes to walk down to the waterfront and experience the different art installations. “I love the variation, it’s rare that something goes up in a space and then changes. It’s great how the City of Alexandria showcases so many different artists and their work, and it’s beautiful for those who visit.”

This season, Tony is especially grateful for family. He and Nathan’s family met for the first time this summer, “It was a giant house party!” And he looks forward to more gatherings before the end of the year. When I ask what drives him, he passionately shares, “making subtle changes for anyone coming after me, the next gen. I want them to know that it doesn’t matter who you are or where you are in life. If there isn’t a seat at the table for you – make your own.”

When Renee and I gush over his fabulous suit, he shares, “Growing up and knowing that I was gay…I had a fear of showing my personality through clothing. Now I’m free to enjoy myself and I find things that I think are fun and catch my eye, while also maintaining a professional look. I don’t hold myself back from enjoying colors and fabrics that I used to hide from.” 

And yes, Tony, you have captured that essence. Check out his Street Style: 

ABOUT TONY

Neighborhood: Arlandria

Hometown: Woodbridge, VA

What would surprise people about you? I’m an oceanographer nerd.

Favorite book or movie: Fight Club

Guilty Pleasure: All-you-can-eat Korean BBQ. I recommend Gogi Friends and 9292. 

Latest binge-watch: Black Mirror on Netflix (season 3, ep. 4 “San Junipero” is a must-watch) 

Bucket list travel destination: Japan

STYLE

Define your style in three words or less: Bright but modern

The go-to piece in your wardrobe: Brown Twisted Taylor Suit

Favorite trend: Half-tucked shirts – I wish I could pull that off.

Beauty products you can’t live without: Lotion or moisturizer, I couldn’t imagine my life without it.

Boots, sneakers, or sandals? Sneakers for sure!

WELLNESS

Go-to way to de-stress: Hanging out on the beaches of Saint Croix

Most fun way to stay active: Running, whenever I am stressed, a nice run always helps

Wellness goal: To gain some weight/muscle and to tone

Want to try: Weightlifting!

Proudest wellness achievement: Being able to take myself on a date after a long week

HOME

Favorite room in your home: Living room, it’s so cozy

Antiques, modern, or a mix? Modern

Last item bought for your home: Bar glassware

Favorite way to entertain: Casual, having family and friends over for a game night

Clutter-free or well-lived in? A mix of both depending on the day

Next planned purchase: A home to own

ALEXANDRIA

What do you love about Alexandria Stylebook? I love that Alexandria Stylebook highlights a multitude of businesses, styles, and brands of Alexandria.

Favorite spot in Alexandria: Bars and restaurants up and down King Street.

Your go-to shop: King’s Jewelry or Wine Gallery 108

Best food spot: 1799 Prime

Favorite local organization: The Chamber ALX. The Chamber is the reason I made the move to Alexandria, and the relationships I’ve built and connections I have made through them will stay with me for years to come.

Annual Alexandria event you most look forward to: I haven’t been but would love to check out the Del Ray Halloween parade.

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